BSAC has appointed a new national Safeguarding Officer, with former East Midlands Regional Coach, Dr Linda Ritson, stepping into the role.
As part of its strategic goal to attract and recruit more younger members, Linda will now oversee focused safeguarding and welfare support, advice and training opportunities for BSAC clubs and members.
Linda, who has a wealth of experience in education, mentoring and mental health, said she was looking forward to working on the development of a robust and sustainable safeguarding framework for BSAC.
Linda explained:
The need for solid safeguarding practices throughout BSAC has become more important than ever as we navigate an ever-changing world.
With a professional doctorate in education, Linda has spent many years working with disengaged, marginalised and disaffected children and young people. A member of BSAC since 1998, she is a First Class Diver, an Advanced Instructor, Diving for All Instructor Trainer and an Instructor Trainer. Linda is currently a member of East Midlands Sub-Aqua Club.
Linda said she welcomed the opportunity to combine her diving life with her professional experience of working with young people to take safeguarding within BSAC forward:
From improving knowledge and understanding amongst the BSAC membership to empowering our clubs and their Welfare Officers, my goal is to make safeguarding a routine part of BSAC club and diving life.
BSAC CEO Mary Tetley said she was delighted Linda had taken up the Safeguarding Officer role:
Inclusivity and accessibility are at the heart of BSAC, and the safeguarding role is pivotal to ensuring everyone feels safe and valued. With Linda now at the helm, we can continue to ensure our clubs have the training and knowledge to support both young people and adults in their full enjoyment of our sport.
To contact Linda with any questions regarding BSAC safeguarding, you can email her at safeguardingofficer@bsac.com.
BSAC Diving Conference 2024
Join Linda Ritson and BSAC Membership Administrator Mandy Hill at the 2024 BSAC Diving Conference on Saturday 19th October. In their talk you'll learn essential approaches for safeguarding under-18 members, along with key insights into adult safeguarding. This session will include vital information and a Q&A segment to support members in meeting safeguarding standards.
Safeguarding guidance
Get more information on safeguarding for clubs in the duty of care and welfare section.
