Safeguarding
Last updated: 14th September 2024
We are committed to protecting our members, partners and affiliated organisations whilst using our site and services. As a user or customer using our website, you have access to a range of tools to control what content you see, what others see about you, and how you report harmful or inappropriate content.
Please see the following information on our Safeguarding Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy on how we protect people whilst undertaking our activities.
Preferences, Privacy and Posting
This site will send you an Email notification of when other users have interacted with your content, such as commenting on a post you have created, or when you have successfully joined a Discussion Group. You can control which notifications you receive to your Email inbox from the website by going to your account dropdown > Account > Email preferences.
You can control who is able to access each field within your profile, based on a range of groupings. Go to your account dropdown > Account > Privacy.
To help control what content you see and what others see from you, we have provided a “Follow” tool for each profile.
Like many other networks, you can Connect with, and “follow” others by visiting their profile and clicking the Connect or Follow buttons. This will allow you to filter the posts in your activity feed by those people you are most interested in.
You can also limit your profile information access and the posts you create to only those that follow you.
To follow a profile, click on a user’s name and locate the Connect menu at the top of the profile page:
You can decide who is able to see a post by selecting a group of users, via the dropdown above the text editing area. This is also a useful way of posting in Discussion Groups without having to navigate to them.
Reporting Content and Users
Student Motorsport closely monitors content and will act to remove any content inappropriate, harmful, undermining or suspicious. However, if you feel any content you see from users could be deemed any of the above, then you can report the content.
On the offending post, look for the “…” menu button and locate “Report…” link.
You will then be provided with a set of categories and you can choose whichever you think is the most appropriate. Site moderators will investigate.
If the site receives more than 2 reports on the same post, it will automatically be suspended.
It is entirely the moderator’s discretion as to whether content remains, and whether a user is periodically suspended from using the site, or permanently banned.
We will fairly investigate every Report that is raised with us, and will make judgement in the interest of the site, our brand, other brands and our users.
Content that provides misinformation, inappropriate or irrelevant, may be removed and warnings issued. Warnings may propose suspension or bans from using the site or any physical spaces associated with Student Motorsport
If content is deemed to be harmful in any way to an individual or group of individuals, we will take necessary action which may include:
- Removal of content
- Suspension from the site for a period of time
- Explanation of why your conduct is problematic + remedy
- Outright ban of your account and any other accounts identifiable as you, including by IP address.
You are able to “block” users if you do not wish to see content from them, mention them in posts or add them as a connection/follower. This should only be used when user’s content or interactions are bothering you directly.
This can be done by visiting their profile, and locating the “Block” link at the top of the profile.
The moderation team will be notified of this action to monitor the behaviour of users.
If a user is blocked by more than 3 members, their account will be automatically suspended for moderators to review.
You can unblock users by going to your Account dropdown > Accounts > Blocked Members.
If a report is made that we believe is intended to harm a user and has no basis or justification, we may decide to suspend or ban the reporting user for abusing the tools and taking up moderation time.
Repeated use of the reporting tools by a user may result in a warning, suspension or ban, if the majority of reporting cases are not considered worthy of action.
Your Data
You have the right to edit a post you have created. Each post you have created will have an Edit option.
We (and our system provider) does not provide the ability to edit comments on posts.
You may also Delete posts entirely and all subsequent comments, and any other automatically generated updates. Locate the “…” menu link on each item and click delete.
You are able to request a copy of your site data.
To do this, click your Account dropdown > Account > Export Data.
On submitting a request, the moderation team will review and if approved, the website will send you a .zip file of your data.
In accordance with UK and European law, you have the right to Erasure of your data from our servers.
By visiting the Account Dropdown > Account, you will be able to delete your profile and data. This will be permanent and automatic once underway. All access to the site, it’s content including paid courses and credit balance will be removed. This access cannot be transferred to another user unless exceptional circumstances occur and agreed by the moderation team.
Our Safeguarding Policy
Introduction:
At Student Motorsport, we recognise the vital role we play in supporting the enjoyment, safety, and well-being of our participants in the Student Motorsport Challenge, the world’s first cross-departmental motorsport program and motor racing series. We are committed to ensuring that all activities, both online and at in-person events, prioritise the safeguarding of children and adults at risk.
This policy outlines our commitment to best practices and robust safeguarding measures across all our operations, particularly at racing circuits, training sessions, and online activities. We believe that strong safeguarding protocols are essential in protecting vulnerable individuals, and failure to uphold these responsibilities would undermine our core values and obligations.
This policy applies to all participants involved in Student Motorsport events or activities.
Our Aims & Commitment to Safeguarding:
Our customers, schools, colleges, and universities typically have their safeguarding policies, however, we recognise our responsibility to ensure that all Student Motorsport activities adhere to safeguarding standards.
This safeguarding policy is designed to prevent abuse, identify potential risks, and outline steps for protecting all individuals, particularly vulnerable groups, from harm.
As safeguarding concerns continue to grow across England, we are committed to embedding safeguarding procedures into all aspects of our operations to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in the Student Motorsport Challenge.
Student Motorsport Safeguarding Core Principles:
Student Motorsport, as the operator of the Student Motorsport Challenge, the world’s first cross-departmental motorsport programme and racing series, is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants. We recognise our responsibility to create a secure environment that supports the educational and sporting development of everyone involved.
Core Principles:
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Child Welfare is Paramount
The safety and well-being of children are our top priority in everything we do. -
Equality and Inclusivity
All children, regardless of age, ability, culture, race, language, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or gender identity, have an equal right to protection from harm. -
Shared Responsibility
Safeguarding is a collective responsibility. Every member of ‘staff’ and volunteer must take appropriate action if they encounter concerns, suspicions, or disclosures indicating a child may be at risk of harm. -
Support for All Involved
Any child, volunteer, or ‘staff’ member dealing with safeguarding concerns will receive the necessary support and guidance to ensure their safety and well-being. -
Safer Recruitment
All ‘staff’ and volunteers involved in regulated activities with children will undergo the necessary safeguarding and recruitment checks to ensure they are suitable to work with vulnerable groups. Each of our ‘staff’ (as a minimum) has completed a Self-Declaration and Disclosure form for non-regulated activities. -
Ongoing Training
Student Motorsport is dedicated to providing ‘staff’ and volunteers with ongoing training opportunities to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to effectively respond to safeguarding concerns.
These principles form the foundation of our safeguarding policy, ensuring that we protect the most vulnerable members of our community and maintain a safe environment in motorsport and education.
Roles and Responsibilities:
At Student Motorsport, we recognise our vital role in safeguarding the well-being of all participants in the Student Motorsport Challenge, particularly children and young people. As an organisation that works closely with schools, colleges, and universities across the UK, and operates under the guidance of Motorsport UK, the National Governing Body for motorsport, we are committed to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all.
Our Commitment:
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Resource Allocation
We will dedicate the necessary resources to ensure that our safeguarding commitments are fully implemented, creating a safe and positive environment for students to participate in motorsport activities and training
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Policy Distribution and Communication
Student Motorsport will actively publicise, promote, and distribute safeguarding policies and procedures to all relevant stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is aware of their responsibilities. -
Support for Affiliated Organisations
We will offer comprehensive support to all affiliated institutions, including the provision of template safeguarding policies, best practice guidelines, training opportunities, and specialist advice. This ensures that all organisations we work with are equipped to meet safeguarding standards.
By fulfilling these responsibilities, Student Motorsport seeks to uphold the highest standards of safety and protection, ensuring that our motorsport programmes provide a positive and secure experience for every participant.
Legal Considerations:
We ensure that all safeguarding activities and procedures consider the provisions of the Human Rights Act 1998, ensuring that the rights and dignity of individuals are respected and upheld.
Every public authority must respect human rights, and we will ensure that our safeguarding measures comply with these standards.
Our Safeguarding Procedures:
1. Responding to Allegations or Incidents:
In the event of an allegation or safeguarding incident, the following steps must be taken immediately:
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Report the allegation or incident to the appointed Safeguarding Officer.
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The Safeguarding Officer will document the incident, assess the situation, and determine the necessary course of action.
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Depending on the severity, relevant authorities (such as the police or local safeguarding teams) will be informed.
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The person who made the report, as well as the individual involved in the incident, will receive support throughout the process.
2. Disciplinary Procedures for Neglect or Allegations:
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In cases where neglect or an allegation of misconduct arises, a thorough investigation will be conducted by the Safeguarding Officer in conjunction with any necessary authorities.
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If the investigation finds that misconduct occurred, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken, which may include suspension, termination of involvement with the program, or legal action.
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All investigations and disciplinary actions will be handled with the utmost confidentiality and respect for the individuals involved.
3. Definitions of Abuse and Neglect:
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Abuse: Any action that intentionally harms or injures another person. This can include physical, emotional, sexual, or financial harm.
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Neglect: A failure to provide necessary care, assistance, or supervision to a person, resulting in harm or increased risk of harm.
4. Contact Information for Reporting an Incident:
If an incident or concern arises, please contact our appointed Safeguarding Officer:
Student Motorsport
Director: John Paul Latham
Email: enquiries@studentmotorsport .com
Contact us
If you have any queries or concerns that cannot be addressed by any of the above, you are welcome to contact us using the form below.