Sutton Writers Safe-Guarding and Well-Being Policy
1. The physical and mental safety of all Members is important to Sutton Writers (SW). SW is open to anyone over the age of 18 with an interest in writing.
2. SW will treat all Members equally in accordance with the provisions of the Equality Act 2010.
3. A designated Committee Member will be appointed by the Committee to deal with any issues arising from this policy.
4. Where a Member appears vulnerable, and there is any suspicion of neglect, abuse or a need for care, then the designated Committee Member will first raise this confidentially with the Member in question. If necessary, the Committee as a whole may make a decision to refer this to an appropriate outside authority.
5. If SW carries out any outreach activities with children or young people under the age of 18, SW will endeavour to ensure that this is carried out in the presence of a person or persons with parental responsibility e.g. a parent or teacher, and that those members involved have passed the relevant criminal checks.
6. SW expects all Members to conduct themselves in a friendly and respectful manner and in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 2 above. In accordance with the Constitution, the Committee may withdraw Membership from any Member who behaves in an improper manner.
7. Members may write on any topic of their choice. However, if a piece is to be read aloud at meetings, and contains material which would generally be considered to be sensitive or challenging, SW expects that a Member will give warning of this before reading.
8. Giving and receiving feedback is an important part of SW’s activities, and SW expects Members to do this in general agreement with the attached Feedback sheet.
9. Any concerns raised by Members will be taken seriously. Problems should be raised initially with the designated Committee Member.