INDEPENDENT youth clubs in East Lancashire are being given guidance on how to prevent abuse of children in their care.

The Lancashire Youth Clubs Association, which represents around 30 clubs in East Lancashire, wants to see more checks on potential volunteers.

And it is asking all of its members to consider the issues involved and adopt a child protection policy within the next 12 months.

Clubs will benefit from the Government's proposed Criminal Records Bureau, which will give voluntary organisations access to police records for the first time.

Development officer Graham Whalley said parents did have concerns about leaving their children in the care of others and safeguards had to be put in place as soon as possible. He said he would like to see independent youth clubs put in place strategies similar to those adopted by the scouts and other organisations, where potential volunteers have to complete application forms and provide references.

"Vetting people is only part of a process," he said. "It is not just about getting a criminal record check. It would only show if someone has been convicted.

"It means that if a volunteer thinks 'they are going to find me out' then they will run a mile."

The association has produced a report which will help clubs draw up a child protection strategy.

It sets out guidelines on what is appropriate behaviour for volunteers, what is not, and what could put them at risk of being accused of abuse.

And it gives advice on what should be done if a child reports a case of abuse and where they can turn for help.

The association is planning further training for youth club leaders later in the year.

Mr Whalley said: "Clearly this is a sensitive issue for all concerned."

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