MSK Coaching – Safeguarding & Youth Support Documentation Package

This document contains the full set of safeguarding materials for MSK Coaching:

  1. Child Safeguarding Statement

  2. Full Child Safeguarding Policy

  3. Code of Ethics & Professional Boundaries for Working with Young People (Online & In‑Person)

  4. Parent/Guardian Consent Form for Coaching Services (Under 18)

Each section is designed in alignment with:
• Children First Act 2015
• Children First: National Guidance (2017)
• Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice
• GDPR (EU)

1. Child Safeguarding Statement

MSK Coaching is committed to safeguarding the young people (aged 16+) who engage with our services. We recognise our responsibility to ensure their safety, welfare, and wellbeing at all times. The welfare of the young person is our paramount consideration.

MSK Coaching provides online and in‑person mindset and performance coaching to adolescents and young adults. We have conducted a risk assessment of potential harm and implemented procedures to reduce these risks, including:
• Safe online engagement procedures
• A clear reporting process for concerns
• A code of conduct for working with young people
• Data protection and confidentiality measures

Designated Liaison Person (DLP)

Name: Marie Sweeney Khalifa
Role: Service Provider
Contact: mariesweeneykhalifa@outlook.com

This statement will be reviewed every 12 months or sooner if required.

2. Full Child Safeguarding Policy

2.1 Purpose of the Policy

This policy outlines MSK Coaching’s commitment to protecting children and young people and establishing safe, ethical, and transparent practices in all services delivered.

2.2 Scope

This policy applies to:
• All coaching programmes (online or in person)
• One‑to‑one sessions
• Group workshops
• Any interaction with young people aged under 18

2.3 Guiding Principles

• The welfare of the young person is paramount.
• Young people have a right to be heard, protected, and supported.
• Parents/guardians are key partners in the process.
• All concerns or disclosures will be addressed promptly and in accordance with legislation.

2.4 Risk Assessment Summary

Identified areas of potential risk:

  1. Online communication and privacy risks.

  2. Boundary issues or inappropriate contact.

  3. Handling sensitive disclosures.

  4. Record‑keeping and data protection.

  5. In‑person workshop environment risks.

Associated mitigating procedures:
• Secure platforms and no‑recording rule.
• Clear communication boundaries.
• Reporting procedure for concerns.
• Consultation with parents/guardians where appropriate.
• Safe sign‑in/out processes for in‑person workshops.

2.5 Reporting Child Protection Concerns

Any concern, allegation, or disclosure will be reported to:
Tusla – Child and Family Agency (via online portal or local office).

Steps:

  1. Listen and remain calm.

  2. Do not question extensively.

  3. Record the concern factually.

  4. Submit a Mandated Report to Tusla, where necessary.

  5. Contact An Garda Síochána, if the child is at immediate risk.

2.6 Procedure for Allegations Against a Coach

• Remove the individual from direct contact pending review.
• Notify Tusla immediately.
• Follow fair procedure and Children First guidance.
• Maintain confidentiality for all parties.

2.7 Safe Online Coaching Procedures

• Sessions delivered on secure platforms.
• Parent/guardian notified of services.
• Sessions not recorded by either party.
• Young person must be in a safe, private space during sessions.
• Professional boundaries maintained at all times.
• Communication limited to scheduling and coaching‑related matters.

2.8 Data Protection & Confidentiality

• Records stored securely in encrypted systems.
• Only necessary information is collected.
• Young people informed about confidentiality limits.
• GDPR principles applied consistently.

2.9 Review

This policy will be reviewed annually, with updates noted.

3. Code of Ethics & Professional Boundaries

3.1 Professional Conduct

A coach must:
• Maintain a respectful and supportive environment.
• Avoid dual relationships, where possible.
• Act with integrity, fairness, and transparency.

3.2 Online Boundaries

• No personal social media interactions with clients.
• Communication only through approved channels.
• No sessions conducted late at night or outside agreed hours.
• If a young person becomes distressed, appropriate safeguarding steps are taken.

3.3 Confidentiality & Its Limits

Confidentiality applies except where:
• A young person is at risk of harm.
• Another person is at risk of harm.
• There is a legal requirement to report.

3.4 Respect & Diversity

All young people will be treated fairly regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexuality, ability, or background.

3.5 Physical Contact

Not applicable in online coaching.
For in‑person workshops:
• No unnecessary physical contact.
• Physical contact used only for safety reasons (e.g., first aid) and documented.

4. Parent/Guardian Consent Form

Parent/Guardian Consent for Coaching Services (Under 18)

·        All person’s must sign an agreement form, prior to coaching services carried out.

·        If the client is under the age of 18 years, they must get consent from their parent/guardian to take part.