Governance

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Rob Robson is our designated Welfare Officer and is the main point of contact for any welfare or safeguarding concerns.

Rob brings valuable experience to the role and is deeply committed to supporting the ESSKIA community. His focus is to make sure that every young person involved in ESSKIA—whether taking part in skiing or ski racing as an athlete, volunteer, coach, manager or committee member, feels safe, welcomed and encouraged. 

Rob aims to help create an environment where everyone can enjoy their sport, develop their skills and feel confident that their wellbeing is a priority.

At ESSKIA, we want every child to have a positive, fun and rewarding experience. Everyone involved in ESSKIA should be working together to help you grow, learn new skills and have a great time. If something is worrying you, if someone is not treating you kindly, or if you are just not enjoying your time with us, please reach out to Rob. He will always do his best to support you and help resolve any concerns.

What you should expect at ESSKIA:
• A welcoming and safe environment where you feel happy and included
• Support from experienced people who understand your needs
• Encouragement and praise when you do well
• Opportunities to learn new skills and grow in confidence
• Help in areas you are finding challenging
• To be valued, respected and listened to when you want to share something
• The right to say “no” if you do not want to take part in an activity
• The right to say “stop” if something is happening that you do not like

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. However, as the Welfare Officer, Rob’s role is to ensure that children, parents, coaches, volunteers and committee members all understand this and know who to contact if they ever have a concern.

Rob acts as the first point of contact for all safeguarding matters within ESSKIA and works closely with Snowsport England Safeguarding Lead. He supports the implementation of SNOWSAFE and ESSKIA’s Child Protection Policy and advises the committee on its safeguarding responsibilities. Rob also works alongside coaches, volunteers and members to promote a child-centred culture and a proactive approach to safeguarding.

A key part of Rob’s role is ensuring that ESSKIA remains fully committed to equal opportunities. Everyone who wishes to take part in ESSKIA activities should have a fair and equal chance to do so—regardless of age, ability, disability, gender identity, religion or belief, ethnicity, nationality, social background, marital or partnership status, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity, or political belief. This commitment extends to all members, participants, volunteers, supporters, coaches, officials and staff.

We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. To ensure that our sport is truly open and accessible to all, every member of our community has a part to play. We are continually working to provide opportunities and an environment that promotes fairness, respect and inclusion.

If you have any questions about safeguarding, equality and diversity, or suggestions for how we can improve participation and inclusivity within ESSKIA, please contact Rob directly (cwo@esskia.org).