Our Commitment to Safeguarding
At Paddle NI, we are fully committed to providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who takes part in paddlesport. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and we work proactively to protect the welfare, rights and wellbeing of all participants, including children, young people and adults at risk.
Our affiliated clubs follow the Paddle NI Safeguarding Children Policy, Safeguarding Adults Policy, and the Paddle UK Standards for Deployment. We promote a culture where concerns are taken seriously, responded to promptly, and managed in line with recognised safeguarding procedures.
We do not tolerate any form of abuse, bullying, harassment or discrimination. All coaches, leaders and volunteers are required to follow safeguarding guidance, maintain appropriate training, and act in the best interests of participants at all times.
If you have a safeguarding concern, please contact your Club Safeguarding Officer or the Paddle NI Designated Safeguarding Lead:
Lyn Sherriff
lynsherriff@paddleni.org.uk
07514 500312
If the matter is urgent or you believe someone is at immediate risk of harm, please contact statutory services or the PSNI. Out of hours contact details are provided below. You may also notify the Paddle NI Safeguarding Lead once the immediate risk has been addressed.
| Service | Number | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| PSNI | 999 or 112 | Immediate danger or emergency |
| Regional Emergency Social Work Service (Out‑of‑Hours) | 0800 700 700 | Urgent safeguarding concerns outside office hours (children or adults at risk) |
| NSPCC Helpline | 0808 800 5000 | Advice or concerns about a child |
| Childline | 0800 1111 | Support for children and young people |
| Samaritans | 116 123 | Emotional distress or crisis support |
Our full safeguarding policies and reporting procedures are available on the links below. You will also find links to safeguarding resources designed to support the safety and well-being of all individuals. These include guidance, reporting a concern and information on training.
