Safeguarding Committee - Independent Member

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

There are currently four Committees that report directly to the Board of Trustees, one of them is the Safeguarding Committee, of which you will be a member. The Safeguarding Committee provides assurance, advice and recommendations to the Board on safeguarding matters.

The Committee provides strategic leadership, ownership and oversight of The Scout Association (TSA)’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and ensures that safeguarding policies, procedures and practice remain fit for purpose and sector leading in protecting young people in Scouting.

The Committee also provides strategic oversight, challenge and assurance in relation to TSA’s safeguarding arrangements, including the safeguarding of adults where relevant.

Independent Members bring external expertise, independent scrutiny and constructive challenge to support the Committee in fulfilling its responsibilities. The role is not operational: it is a strategic governance and assurance role, focused on strengthening oversight, improving learning and helping Scouts respond effectively to current and emerging safeguarding risks.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

·       Provide strategic advice, challenge and independent scrutiny to support the Committee in discharging its responsibilities.

·       Assist the Committee in ensuring that Scouts remains at the forefront of safeguarding practice and development.

·       Review safeguarding performance information, assurance reports, learning reports and risk information to support effective oversight.

·       Contribute to the Committee’s review of safeguarding assurance activity, quality assurance findings, thematic reviews, and organisational learning arising from safeguarding incidents and case reviews.

·       Contribute to the development and review of safeguarding policies, procedures, guidance and assurance arrangements.

·       Help identify emerging safeguarding risks and opportunities affecting young people, volunteers and the wider organisation.

·       Support the Committee’s oversight of safeguarding culture, organisational learning and continuous improvement.

·       Participate in monitoring and reviewing safeguarding risks delegated to the Committee by the Board.

·       Contribute to discussions on strategic priorities and future safeguarding developments across Scouting.

·       Act as an advocate for excellent safeguarding practice and a culture that places the safety and wellbeing of young people at its centre.

THE PERSON

Skills

·       Communicate effectively with senior volunteers, trustees, staff and external stakeholders.

·       Analyse complex information and exercise sound judgement.

·       Provide constructive challenge and independent scrutiny.

·       Contribute effectively within a strategic committee environment.

·       Work collaboratively while maintaining independence of thought.

·       Quickly develop an understanding of Scouts, its governance arrangements and safeguarding framework.

EXPERIENCE

The Committee is particularly seeking candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas.

·       Priority area: substantial expertise in digital safeguarding, including online safety, digital harms, safeguarding in online environments, social media risks, emerging technology risks and child protection risks associated with digital platforms.

·       Additional areas of interest: family law, social care practice or leadership, child protection and safeguarding within statutory services, law enforcement experience relating to safeguarding, horizon scanning, regulatory or inspection environments, quality assurance, or safeguarding within youth, education, faith or voluntary sector settings.

CHARECTERISTICS

·       Commitment to the purpose and values of Scouts.

·       Strong personal integrity and sound judgement.

·       Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

·       Ability to operate strategically and objectively.

·       Sufficient time available to fulfil the role.

TIME COMMITMENT AND MEETINGS

The Safeguarding Committee normally meets four times per year, with three meetings held virtually and one longer meeting held face-to-face. Members will also be expected to read papers in advance of meetings and may occasionally be consulted between meetings on specific matters.

Applicants should expect to spend around two days per quarter on Committee business after the induction phase, including preparation, attendance and follow-up activity.

APPOINTMENT TERM

Appointments will normally be for an initial three-year term, subject to a six-month review, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term by mutual agreement.

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES

In common with other registered charities, there is no remuneration directly associated with the role. The Scout Association will reimburse reasonable and properly documented expenses incurred in performing the role in accordance with its Expenses Policy.