News
Statement re Simon Beard
09 July 2010
9 July 2010
Our own investigations into his work while he was employed with NYA indicate that the charges against him have no direct relationship with the Agency. However, as a leading youth organisation, we put the interests of young people at the heart of everything we do and we take our responsibilities for the safeguarding of young people very seriously.
Following the charges brought against Simon Beard, the NYA instructed our auditors to conduct a review of our safeguarding practices; we reported the incident to the Independent Safeguarding Authority, the Local Safeguarding Board and also to the Charity Commission.
The Charity Commission’s regulatory compliance investigation concluded that the ‘NYA had acted promptly following the allegation to ensure that there was no risk to the beneficiaries or reputation of the Charity, and that the appropriate authorities were contacted and involved at an early stage’. The Charity Commission also found that ‘the Charity had appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures in place.’
Fiona Blacke, NYA’s Chief Executive, commented: “the incident concerning Simon Beard has been challenging for us but we have received support from organisations and individuals who value our work. We will continue to work with police and other authorities in relations to this case. As ever, our overriding concern is for the safety of young people.”
ENDS
Notes:
Mr Beard was employed by the National Youth Agency in 2002 as a Development Officer until September 2009 and subsequently as a consultant from November 2009. He was CRB checked as recently as November 2009 when he became a consultant.
During his time with the Agency he developed a number of advisory papers for youth workers spanning a range of subjects. We have discontinued the publication of these documents at this present time pending an independent peer review.
All staff and associates undergo a full disclosure Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check prior to employment or contract commencement and we are continually reviewing and improving our safeguarding policies. In relation to Mr Beard’s employment with us we are certain that all the necessary checks and procedures were applied.
For further information please contact:
Holly-Marie Draper - Tel: 07921 687847 Email: hollyd@nya.org.uk