Child Welfare
Welcome to the Child Welfare section of the Irish Pony Club (IPC) website. Our aim is to help our members make IPC equine activities safe for young people while encouraging them to reach their full potential.
Protecting our young members is the first priority of the IPC. To achieve this, we have developed the appropriate policies and procedures to guide parents, branch officials, instructors and other adults involved in our activities, to set and maintain the right environment to allow young people to flourish.
It is also important that our young members know what to expect from their branch or activity. One of the basic policies for all members is the Code of Conduct. This is required in every branch and for everyone involved in our activities; whatever your position there is a relevant Code of Conduct that applies to you.
All IPC Branches are required to appoint a Children’s Officer and a Designated Person. The roles are predominantly involved in creating and maintaining a child-centred environment for young people, with the Club Children’s Officer being a face that young people recognise and someone they know who will listen to their views.
The Irish Pony Club Safeguarding Policies and Procedures document also contains references to all the policies and procedures the IPC have in place for Branches and members to ensure the safety of children and young people whilst taking part in equine activities.
We are fully committed to safeguarding the well-being of all athletes. Every person should at all times, show respect and understanding for participants’ rights, safety, welfare and conduct themselves in a way that reflects the principles of the organisation and the guidelines contained in our Code of Ethics and Good Practice.
For further help or advice contact your Club Children’s Officer or the National Children’s Officer. See the details of the IPC Child Welfare Committee.
IPC Child Welfare Committee
- Rory O' Sullivan Hennessy (National Children's Officer) : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 086-8451035
- Marisa Breen Bourke (IPC Designated Liaison Person): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0872486063
- Dr. Marina Brennan: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 056-7728420 / 087-2441047
Code of ethics
Please click here to download the Safeguarding Guidance for Children and Young People in Sport.
IPC Safeguarding Statement 2019
Codes of Conduct
Guidelines and Code of Conduct for Parents / Guardians
Policies and procedures
Disciplinary, Complaints and Appeals Procedures
Garda Vetting
All Garda Vetting is now Processed by Horse Sport Ireland for the Irish Pony Club. Garda Vetting now has to be applied for through Horse Sport Ireland @https://www.horsesportireland.ie/governance/garda-vetting/
Please visit the Downloads page for additional documentation regarding health and safety and child welfare.
