1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This document outlines Esports NG’s commitment to protecting children and young people from sexual abuse and exploitation. It establishes clear standards, procedures, and responsibilities designed to create a safe, secure, and supportive environment for all participants.
1.2 Scope
These standards apply to all Esports NG activities, including:
- Organized esports events and tournaments
- Online platforms and digital communications
- Training sessions, workshops, and community gatherings
- Interactions with minors by staff, volunteers, partners, and third-party service providers
1.3 Definitions
- Child/Young Person: Any individual under the age of 18.
- Child Sexual Abuse: Any sexual activity with a child where consent is either not given or cannot be legally or developmentally given.
- Exploitation: Taking unfair advantage of a child for sexual purposes, including grooming, coercion, or any act that leads to abuse.
- CSAE: Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation.
- Safeguarding: The measures taken to protect the health, well-being, and human rights of individuals, especially children and vulnerable groups.
2. Policy Statement
Esports NG adopts a zero-tolerance approach to any form of child sexual abuse and exploitation. We are committed to:
- Protecting the welfare and rights of every child and young person.
- Ensuring a safe environment across all our platforms and events.
- Upholding transparency, accountability, and integrity in our safeguarding practices.
3. Guiding Principles
- Child-Centered Approach: Prioritize the best interests and well-being of children.
- Zero Tolerance: Any abuse or exploitation is unacceptable and will be met with strict action.
- Prevention First: Implement proactive measures and continuous risk assessments.
- Transparency and Accountability: Maintain clear reporting channels and swift, decisive responses.
- Confidentiality: Respect privacy while ensuring information is shared with the appropriate authorities when needed.
- Empowerment: Ensure children, staff, and volunteers are educated about their rights and responsibilities.
4. Preventative Measures
4.1 Recruitment and Screening
- Rigorous Background Checks: All staff, volunteers, and contracted third parties must undergo comprehensive background checks and reference verifications.
- Vetting Procedures: Regularly update and review vetting procedures to align with current best practices and legal requirements.
4.2 Training and Awareness
- Mandatory Training: All personnel must complete regular training on safeguarding practices, recognizing signs of abuse, and understanding reporting procedures.
- Awareness Campaigns: Regularly disseminate information to children, parents, and guardians on safe digital practices and how to seek help.
4.3 Safe Environment Practices
- Codes of Conduct: Clearly defined behavioral expectations for all interactions with minors, both in-person and online.
- Digital Safety: Ensure robust moderation and content controls on all online platforms; implement secure communication channels.
- Risk Assessments: Conduct routine assessments of venues, events, and online platforms to identify potential risks and implement remedial measures.
5. Reporting Procedures
5.1 Internal Reporting
- Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO): Appoint a qualified individual responsible for handling safeguarding issues. The DSO must be accessible, clearly identified, and trained to manage sensitive disclosures.
- Clear Channels: Establish multiple confidential avenues (e.g., hotlines, secure email) for reporting concerns or incidents.
- Documentation: Maintain secure and confidential records of all reports and follow-up actions.
5.2 External Reporting
- Mandatory Reporting: Immediately report any confirmed or suspected abuse to local law enforcement and child protection agencies in accordance with national laws.
- Cooperation: Collaborate fully with investigations and external bodies while safeguarding the identity and rights of all involved.
6. Response Procedures
6.1 Immediate Action
- Safety First: Prioritize the immediate safety of the child by removing them from any potentially harmful situation.
- Crisis Response: Activate a pre-defined crisis management plan that includes contacting emergency services and providing immediate support.
6.2 Investigation
- Internal Review: The DSO will initiate an internal investigation in parallel with external investigations where appropriate.
- Confidentiality: Ensure all investigations are conducted discreetly and with respect for privacy.
6.3 Support and Rehabilitation
- Victim Support: Offer access to counseling services, medical support, and specialist care for victims and their families.
- Ongoing Assistance: Ensure continued support and follow-up, including referrals to specialized agencies when required.
7. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Review
7.1 Regular Audits
- Scheduled Reviews: Conduct periodic audits of all safeguarding practices, policies, and training programs.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Use surveys, focus groups, and stakeholder meetings to assess the effectiveness of safeguarding measures.
7.2 Policy Review
- Annual Review: Review and update these standards annually or in response to significant changes in legal requirements or emerging best practices.
- Continuous Improvement: Encourage open dialogue to refine practices and improve protective measures continuously.
8. Implementation
8.1 Communication
- Dissemination: Ensure that all staff, volunteers, participants, and partners are aware of and understand these standards.
- Accessible Resources: Provide easy-to-access materials and online resources summarizing key safeguarding practices.
8.2 Training Programs
- Induction and Refresher Courses: Include safeguarding training as a mandatory part of induction for all new personnel and as regular refreshers.
- Specialized Workshops: Organize advanced training sessions for DSOs and key personnel responsible for managing safeguarding issues.
9. Enforcement and Consequences
9.1 Disciplinary Measures
- Immediate Action: Any breach of these standards will result in immediate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or volunteer status.
- Legal Consequences: Where applicable, Esports NG will cooperate fully with legal authorities, and breaches may result in criminal prosecution.
9.2 Accountability
- Transparency: Regularly publish anonymized reports on safeguarding activities and outcomes.
- Responsibility: Hold all members of the Esports NG community accountable for maintaining a safe environment.
10. Appendices
10.1 Glossary
- A detailed glossary of terms used in this document.
10.2 Resources and Contacts
- Contact details for the Designated Safeguarding Officer and links to external support agencies.
- List of relevant national and international guidelines on safeguarding children.
10.3 Legal and Regulatory References
- References to applicable national child protection laws, international standards, and esports-specific guidelines.
Conclusion
Esports NG is dedicated to creating an environment where children and young people can engage in esports safely and confidently. Through the implementation of these standards, continuous training, and a commitment to transparency, we aim to prevent abuse and exploitation, ensuring a positive and secure experience for all participants.
