Policies

Reach for the stars Coaching Parental Responsibility Policy Tracey Harvey - Reach for the Stars Coaching Rationale To ensure that Tracey Harvey of Reach for the Stars Coaching complies with its duty and responsibility to children and their parents. Purpose Tracey Harvey of Reach for the Stars Coaching is required to communicate with the parents of children under the age of 18. However, it is imperative that we are certain of who the adults with parental responsibility are. In cases where there are disputes between several adults who claim to have parental responsibility, we must ensure clarity and work with the parents and third parties to resolve any conflicts while always acting in the best interest of the child. Definition of Parental Responsibility Parental responsibility refers to the rights, duties, powers, and responsibilities that most parents have in respect of their children. The Adoption and Children Act 2003 revised parental responsibility laws. In practical terms, parental responsibility means the ability to make important decisions regarding the child, including: • Determining the child’s education and school. • Choosing, registering, or changing the child’s name. • Appointing a child’s guardian in the event of a parent’s death. • Consenting to medical treatment or surgeries. • Accessing a child’s medical records. • Consenting to international travel for holidays or extended stays. • Representing the child in legal proceedings. • Determining the child’s religion, considering any cultural or religious backgrounds. Parental responsibility does not automatically grant the right to contact with the child, which remains the child’s right, or the right to know the whereabouts of the child unless it’s in the child’s best interest. Who Possesses Parental Responsibility? • Mothers automatically acquire parental responsibility. • Fathers acquire parental responsibility if married to the mother at the time of the child’s birth, or if their name appears on the child’s birth certificate (depending on the jurisdiction). • Step-parents, adoptive parents, and guardians appointed by the court may also acquire parental responsibility. Authorisation of Coaching Sessions Before offering coaching sessions, Tracey Harvey of Reach for the Stars Coaching will request the full name, date of birth of the child, and the contact details of at least one parent with parental responsibility. We will not offer coaching sessions to a child under 18 without the consent of at least one parent with parental responsibility. In Cases of Parental Disputes: • In cases where there is a parental dispute, we will aim to seek consent from both parents if in the best interest of the child and the coaching process. • If a dispute involves court orders, advice will be sought to ensure compliance with the legal situation. • If only one parent is in contact with Reach for the Stars Coaching, we will assess whether obtaining consent from the other parent would harm the child. Safeguarding If a parent’s actions are deemed not to be in the best interest of the child, this can be challenged. We will always prioritize the child’s welfare, seeking advice and external support where necessary. • If we learn of a court order prohibiting contact with one parent or unsupervised access, we will act accordingly, ensuring the child’s best interest is prioritised. • If a child discloses concerns regarding emotional or physical well-being, the relevant authorities will be informed. In such cases, we will not share session information with any other parent unless authorised by the child or advised by authorities. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure it reflects current laws and best practices.