Safeguarding at RTA
Protecting every dancer is not just our policy - it's our promise. Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and celebrated.
Our Commitment
The Royal Twirling Association is committed to providing a safe and positive environment for all children and young people involved in baton twirling and majorette activities. We believe that every child has the right to participate in sport free from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
100% of our officials, judges, and staff are enhanced DBS-checked
Our Safeguarding Framework
DBS Verification
Every single official, judge, volunteer, and staff member involved in RTA events is required to hold a valid, enhanced DBS check. No exceptions.
Dedicated Safeguarding Officer
Our Safeguarding Officer, Joanne Wallwork Dunphy, is specifically trained and always available to handle any concerns with care and confidentiality.
Comprehensive Policies
Our safeguarding policies cover everything from event safety to photography guidelines, ensuring clear standards that everyone follows.
Vigilant Environment
All staff are trained to recognise signs of concern and empowered to act. We maintain a culture where safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.
Our Safeguarding Officer
Joanne Wallwork Dunphy
Designated Safeguarding Officer
Joanne is RTA's dedicated Safeguarding Officer, trained in child protection and always available to handle concerns. All reports are treated with complete confidentiality and acted upon promptly.
safeguarding@royaltwirlingassociation.co.uk
How to Report a Concern
If you have any concern about a child's safety or wellbeing, please don't hesitate to report it. You don't need to be certain - if something feels wrong, let us know.
Identify the Concern
If you notice anything that concerns you about a child's safety or wellbeing - whether at an event, during training, or online - take note of the details.
Contact Our Safeguarding Officer
Reach out to Joanne Wallwork Dunphy directly via email or phone. All reports are treated with the utmost confidentiality and urgency.
We Investigate & Act
Our safeguarding team will assess the concern, take appropriate action, and work with relevant authorities if necessary. You will be kept informed of the outcome.
Follow-Up & Support
We provide ongoing support to all parties involved and review our procedures to prevent future incidents.
In an Emergency
If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 first. Then contact our Safeguarding Officer as soon as it is safe to do so. You can also contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.
Guide for Parents
At Events
- •All staff wear visible ID badges
- •Designated first aid and welfare areas
- •Clear entry and exit procedures
- •Safeguarding Officer present at every event
Photography Policy
- •Official photographer only at events
- •Parental consent required for all images
- •No unofficial photography in changing areas
- •Social media guidelines strictly enforced
Your Role
- •Speak up if something doesn't feel right
- •Ensure your emergency contact info is current
- •Read our safeguarding policy
- •Know who the Safeguarding Officer is
Our Policies
Full details of our safeguarding procedures and related policies are available to read at any time.
Have a Concern?
Don't hesitate to get in touch. We're here to help and every report is taken seriously.