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1. Introduction

1.1 The Professional Pickleball Association of Hong Kong (PPAHK) is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people involved in our activities.

1.2 This policy applies to everyone working or volunteering with PPAHK, including coaches, officials, staff, and volunteers.

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2. Definition

2.1 For the purposes of this policy, a "child" or "young person" is anyone under the age of 18.

 

3. Core Principles

3.1 PPAHK believes that:

• The welfare of children is paramount

• All children have the right to protection from abuse

• All suspicions and allegations of abuse should be taken seriously

• All children should be able to participate in pickleball in a safe, fun environment

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4. Code of Conduct for Working with Children

4.1 All coaches and volunteers must:

• Treat all children fairly and with respect

• Be a positive role model

• Maintain appropriate boundaries

• Avoid being alone with a child

• Report any concerns about a child's welfare

4.2 All coaches and volunteers must NOT:

• Use inappropriate language or behavior

• Engage in or allow sexually provocative behavior

• Have inappropriate physical contact

• Make sexually suggestive comments

• Share a room overnight with a child

 

5. Recruitment and Training

5.1 Recruitment:

• All staff and regular volunteers working with children must undergo background checks

• References will be required and verified

• Photo identification is required

5.2 Training:

• All coaches must complete child protection training

• Training will be updated regularly

• Records of training will be maintained

 

6. Supervision and Ratios

6.1 Appropriate supervision ratios must be maintained:

• For children under 12: minimum 1 adult to 8 children

• For children 12-18: minimum 1 adult to 10 young people

• Mixed gender groups should have both male and female supervisors where possible

 

7. Photography and Social Media

7.1 Photography:

• Written parental consent is required for photographing children

• Images should not identify children by name

• Images should be appropriate and respectful

7.2 Social Media:

• Direct messaging with children should be avoided

• Communications should be through parents/guardians

• Content involving children must be appropriate

 

8. Responding to Concerns

8.1 If you have concerns about a child's welfare:

• Listen carefully to the child

• Do not promise confidentiality

• Record what was said

• Report immediately to the Safeguarding Officer

8.2 If abuse is suspected:

• Do not investigate yourself

• Report to the Safeguarding Officer immediately

• Contact appropriate authorities if necessary

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9. Reporting Procedures

9.1 All concerns must be reported to:

• Secretarial Officer: info@ppahk.com.hk

• In emergencies: Hong Kong Police (999)

9.2 Reports should include:

• Child's name and age

• Nature of concern

• Any information shared by the child

• Your observations

 

10. Confidentiality

10.1 Information about child protection concerns should only be shared on a "need to know" basis.

10.2 Records will be kept securely and in compliance with data protection laws.

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11. Review

11.1 This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary.

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Emergency Contacts:

• Secretarial Officer: +852 5661 4835

• Hong Kong Police: 999

• Social Welfare Department: 2343 2255