Angie Punaks, BWY Ethics, Equity & Welfare Manager writes:

In this quarter’s article I thought it appropriate to let you know how BWY is currently working with both Child Protection and Equity.

CHILD PROTECTION (CP)
The CP Policy and Procedures, which are now up and running, have been developed with the professional support of the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU, part of the NSPCC). The Policy and Procedures are in keeping with the government paper "Working Together to Safeguard Children" and ensure that BWY is working safely to protect all children/young people who are taught yoga by our teachers. We all have a duty of care and, as I have mentioned in previous articles, CP IS RELEVANT TO ALL OUR TEACHERS as an under 18-year-old could be accepted into an adult class.

We have now prepared a portfolio of evidence to present to the CPSU to show that our Policy and Procedures meet government-recognised Standards fulfilling current legislation. By the time you read this I hope we will have been informed of our success.

CP RELATED FORMS and INFORMATION
To sustain the requirements of the CP Policy and Procedures we have needed to develop other related policies and supporting forms. Much of this other CP paperwork can be viewed and downloaded from our website.

WHISTLEBLOWING POLICY
BWY wish to ensure that the highest ethical standards in all areas of our activities are maintained. The Whistleblowing Policy gives guidance to members who feel there is a need to raise, in confidence, with someone within BWY genuine concerns they may have should they suspect that these standards are not being observed by another member or volunteer. The Policy provides a safe environment in which this can be done. The Policy is available on the website or you can obtain a printed copy by contacting me.

Angie Punaks - BWY Ethics, Equity & Welfare Manager
Tel: 01394 446054 email: CP and Equity