News
National Youth Agency Statement Re: Simon Beard
06 August 2010
Press Statement for 6 August 2010
Immediate
6 August 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 have worked closely with the Police and other authorities throughout the duration of this case to support them in achieving this outcome.
“We are really aware that the virtual world can be a very dangerous place for vulnerable young people. Paedophiles are both devious and clever and will find ways of reaching young people, whilst staying under the radar of even the most diligent and conscientious employers.
“Whilst we need to continue to be rigorous in our safeguarding practices and procedures, we also, as parents and educators, need to make sure our children are fully aware of the dangers and know how to protect themselves and who to contact when they encounter inappropriate behaviours.”
Ends
For further media information CONTACT
Holly-Marie Draper on:
Tel: 07921 687847
Email: hollyd@nya.org.uk
Notes to Editors
About the National Youth Agency
The National Youth Agency (NYA) works in partnership with a wide range of public, private and voluntary sector organisations to support and improve services for young people. Our particular focus is on youth work and we believe strongly that by investing in young people’s personal and social development, young people are better able to live more active and fulfilling lives.
Working with young people, we advocate for more youth-friendly services and policies. We have four themes:
- Developing quality standards in work with young people
- Supporting services for young people
- Developing the youth workforce
- Promoting positive public perceptions of young people
We deliver our work through training and consultancy, campaigning, publishing and on-line communications. Through our activities we want to ensure that young people have a strong voice and positive influence in our society.