Safeguarding & Player Welfare
At Galway Stormers Basketball Club, the safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of every child is our first priority.
We want every player to feel welcome, respected, encouraged and safe. Basketball should be a positive experience for children, young people, coaches, volunteers and families. Safeguarding is central to how we operate as a club.
This page explains our safeguarding approach, who to contact, and what to do if you ever have a concern.
Our Commitment
We are committed to providing a safe environment for all our members. This commitment is supported by our comprehensive policies including child protection, anti-bullying, and codes of conduct for everyone involved in the club.
- We will always put the safety and welfare of children first.
- We maintain zero tolerance for bullying or harassment of any kind.
- All coaches and volunteers undergo rigorous Garda Vetting and safeguarding training.
- We follow the Basketball Ireland Code of Ethics and Good Practice.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Safeguarding Contacts
Club Children’s Officer
The CCO is the first point of contact for children and parents. They ensure child-centered policies are in place and help resolve local issues.
Designated Liaison Person
The DLP is responsible for reporting any allegations of abuse or neglect to statutory authorities (Tusla or An Garda Síochána).
General Safeguarding Email
For any non-emergency questions:
safeguarding@southgalwaystormers.ie
Immediate Risk or Emergency
If a child is in immediate danger and you cannot contact a club officer, contact Tusla or An Garda Síochána directly.
What Should I Report?
You should report any concern regarding a child’s welfare, bullying, neglect, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, or breaches of our Codes of Conduct.
How to Raise a Concern
Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing to the CCO or DLP. Every concern is treated seriously, sensitively and in confidence.
Coaches & Vetting
All coaches and volunteers undergo Garda Vetting and must complete Safeguarding training before working with children.
Bullying & Respect
We have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying. We promote respect, positive reinforcement and inclusive supervision for all players.
Travel & Documentation
Our policies cover photography, social media usage, away match travel, and changing room supervision to ensure safety.
This page will be updated as our safeguarding policies and documents are finalised. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact the club safeguarding officers.