Vastuullisuus

Safe Namika

A safe operating environment refers to an environment where activities create joy and positive experiences, without anyone experiencing bullying, harassment, or any form of inappropriate behavior. Everyone involved in the activities shares responsibility for ensuring that all participants are protected from bullying, harassment, and misconduct.

In addition, the environment must promote health, encourage healthy lifestyles, and be physically safe.

At Helsinki NMKY, we do not tolerate any form of inappropriate behavior. Everyone in our community has the right to participate and be themselves without fear of bullying, discrimination, or harassment.

Principles

1. Safe and Non-Discriminatory Atmosphere

All individuals are treated equally and with respect.

Discrimination based on gender, age, background, ability, or any other personal characteristic is not accepted.

Bullying, harassment, and inappropriate behavior are addressed promptly and with a low threshold.

2. Trained and Trustworthy Coaches and Instructors

Coaches and instructors are required to complete training related to inappropriate behavior, harassment, and responsible club operations (e.g., You Are Not Alone online training & Responsible Coach course).

Background checks are conducted for all adults working with children and youth.

Coaches are provided with support and guidance for responsible conduct.

3. Clear Rules and Operating Models

The club has jointly agreed rules for both children and youth as well as adults.

The club’s shared rules and practices are reviewed with all participants at the beginning of each season. In addition, each team creates its own rules together.

4. Open Communication and Low Threshold for Reporting

Participants, coaches/instructors, and guardians know how and to whom they can report inappropriate behavior or harassment (Whistleblower form, harassment contact person, trusted adult).

The club has a designated safeguarding contact person who primarily handles reports.

All feedback and reports are treated seriously and confidentially.

5. Physical Safety and Risk Management

Training environments and facilities are safe and appropriately equipped.

First aid supplies and instructions are available on-site in case of accidents.

Responsible persons are familiar with emergency procedures and act accordingly.

6. Psychological and Social Safety

Coaching takes into account individual well-being, self-esteem, and inclusion.

Positive encouragement and safe interaction skills are emphasized.

7. Data Protection and Privacy

Personal data is handled confidentially and in accordance with data protection legislation.

Photos of children and youth are not published without guardian consent.

What to Do If You Experience Inappropriate Behavior

If you experience harassment or inappropriate behavior in Helsinki YMCA activities, please act as follows:

It is important to report inappropriate behavior to a trusted adult so that the club can take action.

• Within your own team/group (e.g., bullying, harassment, discrimination): report to your coach or another trusted adult.
• During official basketball federation events: report to a referee, coach, or officials.
• At other club events: report immediately to a club representative, event organizer, or guardian, or afterwards to the safeguarding contact person or via the Whistleblower form.

Reporting Within YMCA Finland

• Whistleblower reporting channel: https://ymca.fi/hairinnanraportoiminen/ 

Other Reporting Channels

• Ethical violations (such as doping offences, safety violations, or competition manipulation in sports) can also be reported anonymously or with your name via SUEK’s ILMO service: https://ilmo.suek.fi/en/ 
• You can also contact the “You Are Not Alone” service, provided jointly by the Family Federation of Finland, sports federations, the Finnish Olympic Committee, and SUEK. The service offers free support via phone or chat for athletes, parents, coaches, and staff or volunteers in sports organizations. Website: http://www.etoleyksin.fi/