A recent report of a Safeguarding concern has highlighted risks in the usage of the WhatsApp messaging tool within Chelmsford Hockey Club and a gap in our own Safeguarding policies. While we wish to reassure all members and parents that this report was not related to any specific Safeguarding incident, and we have no reason to suspect that the tool has been used inappropriately, the club Management Committee fully appreciates that the gap must be addressed. As such, at the Management Committee meeting of Wednesday, 19th May, 2021, the adoption of a new WhatsApp Usage Policy was formally approved with immediate effect. This policy is aimed at all Team Captains, Coaches, Managers, members and parents/guardians of junior members.

Any club member who administers an existing WhatsApp group for club activities, or is considering creating a new group, should read this policy document and take the appropriate action if necessary. Parents/Guardians of junior members should also familiarise themselves with the Safeguarding risks involved in the use of WhatsApp.

This policy is based on England Hockey good practice guidance and is intended to mitigate the risks to all parties.

Please direct any questions or concerns related to this policy to our club Welfare Officer, Wendy Tombs.