Skip To Content

Safeguarding

Do you have a safeguarding or equality, diversity and inclusion concern?

Make a referral

Safeguarding children and adults

Safeguarding means protecting people’s health, well-being, and human rights, and enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, neglect and exploitation. It includes preventing harm, responding appropriately to concerns, and creating safe, inclusive environments where people can participate with confidence. 

Safeguarding applies to everyone involved in sailing and boating. While all participants should be able to enjoy our sport safely, some individuals may require additional safeguarding consideration or support due to their circumstances. 

This includes: 

  • Children and young people 
  • Adults at risk, such as those who may receive support from care services 
  • Anyone who may be at increased risk of harm due to their environment, role or situation 

Safeguarding is about recognising individual needs and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place so everyone can participate safely and with dignity. 

young child with curly hair holding on to ropes. He is wearing an onboard lifejacket

Concerned? Make a referral

If you have a safeguarding or equality concern, you can make a referral directly to the RYA Safe Sport Team by completing the RYA safeguarding and Equality referral form.

Safeguarding resources

close up of woman steering powerboat, wearing lifejacket and sunglasses

Policies and Guidelines

Take a look at our adaptable safeguarding policies and guidelines for your training centre or club.

young child holding on to ropes wearing an onboard lifejacket

What to do if you're worried

Find help and information if you’re concerned for the safety of yourself, a  child or adult.

group of children sat listening to an instructor explaining something

Welfare Officers

Learn more about the role of the Welfare Officer and find helpful advice on meeting the role’s needs.

Contact your local safeguarding lead

The RYA Safeguarding team offers support and guidance to clubs, centres, class associations and any adults or children involved in sailing and boating. Feel free to take a look at our resources and if you are unable to find what you are looking for, please contact our team directly.

RYA HQ | Andrea Gates

safeguarding@rya.org.uk | 02380 012796

RYA Cymru Wales | James Stuart

safeguarding@rya.org.uk | 02380 012796

RYA Northern Ireland | Greg Yarnall

safeguarding@rya.org.uk | 02380 012796

RYA Scotland | Pauline McGrow

safeguarding@rya.org.uk | 02380 012796
Accessibility