Scouting Ireland is dedicated to keeping young people safe.

We are committed to ensuring our safeguarding practices comply with best practice and Scouting Ireland requirements, while reflecting statutory responsibilities and Government guidance. Young people in Scouting are supported, encouraged and facilitated by adult volunteers, all of whom understand the responsibility and trust placed in them by parents and guardians.

The welfare and interests of children are paramount in everything we do. We aim to ensure that all children have a positive and enjoyable experience of Scouting in a safe and child-centered environment. Children are safeguarded whilst participating in any Scouting activities, regardless of gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race and membership of the Traveller community.

Our Child Safeguarding Statement, with accompanying risk assessment, has been developed in line with the requirements under the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance, and Tusla’s Child Safeguarding: A Guide for Policy, Procedure and Practice.

Our safeguarding training is recognised by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) and the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI).  Our child safeguarding and child protection policy and procedures listed below confirm that we:

• Promote and prioritise the safety and well-being of children.
• Ensure all volunteers and staff members understand their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and are provided with appropriate education to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children.
• Ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and that support is provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern.
• Ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored.
• Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS