Local authorities are responsible for assuring the safety of their own activities and facilities, similarly for the safety of those commissioned from third parties.

There is no requirement to inspect activities or facilities offered by independent providers, but local authorities are also not required to, and should not promote activities or facilities which they believe to be inappropriate or unsafe. (Source: DCSF Non-statutory Guidance for the Data Collection Exercise on Provision of Positive Activities)

 

HYPE collects information about positive activities for young people organised by local authorities, voluntary and private sector organisations. HYPE acts as a signposting service for promoting the ‘Youth Offer’ for South Tyneside to inform young people, parents and carers about what positive activities are available for 13-19 year olds (up to 24 with special needs) as well as offering useful information and advise on a number of youth related subjects.

With regard to safeguarding young people and families we want all participants to be safe and we do not to be restrictive but we want you to have a great time and nothing to go wrong so when you plan to attend an activity, especially for the first time, we suggest you:

 

• Contact the organiser to make sure the event is still on.
• Feel free to ask any relevant questions you may have about the activity or the organisers linked to safeguarding yourself or your child.
• Make sure you know where the event is and how to get there (you can print a map from the HYPE link).
• Find out if there are any relevant access, age or gender restrictions - they do sometimes apply, e.g. for girls' football training.
• Check to see if you need any special equipment or clothing.
• If relevant check to see if refreshments will be available or if you need to bring your own.
• See what time the activity ends and make arrangements to get home.
• Let somebody you trust know where you are going and how to contact you (maybe give them your mobile and the event details).
• Introduce yourself to the organiser when you arrive.
• Enjoy opening new doors and unlocking your potential!
• And if you do find an activity, venue or organisation that's unsuitable or know it to be incorrect or unsafe, please do let us know by contacting youth.service@southtyneside.gov.uk

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