A Welcoming and Inclusive Club
We welcome everyone regardless of ability, age, disability, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, or social/economic status. We believe athletics can be fun and beneficial for everyone.
Our Committee
Chairperson: Bernie Dowd, 087 6431845
Secretary: Terri Nee, 087 6448459
Treasurer: Maeve Mullen, 087 7738824
Vice Treasurer: Cynthia Vaughan, 087 678 0416
Registrar: Katelynn Mullen, 087 7666253
Vice Registrar: Emma Crawford
Designated Liaison Persons: Cynthia Vaughan, 087-678 0416, and Bernie Dowd, 087-6431845
Children's Welfare Officer: Sinead O Flaherty, 083 155 1059
PRO: Iain Morrow, 083 841 9035
Designated Liaison Persons
Cynthia Vaughen (087-678 0416) and Bernie Dowd (087-6431845) are the Designated Liaison Persons (DLPs) for Slyne Head AC.
Their role is to act as a point of contact for any safeguarding concerns relating to children or young people involved in our club. They are here to listen, offer guidance and ensure that any concerns are dealt with appropriately and in line with Athletics Ireland's safeguarding procedures.
Children's Welfare Officer
Sinead O Flaherty (083 155 1059) is the Child Welfare Officer for Slyne Head AC. Her role as CWO is to help make sure our club environment is safe, inclusive, and supportive for everyone.
If you ever have any concerns regarding safeguarding, mental health, inclusion, or personal well-being, or if you just need a confidential person to talk to, please feel free to reach out to Sinead, who can help connect you with the right support or advice.
All conversations are kept confidential, subject to safety & safeguarding guidelines.
How do the DLPs differ from the CWO?
The Children's Welfare Officer (CWO) has a broader role in promoting a safe, positive and enjoyable environment for all children in the club. This includes supporting good safeguarding practices, helping coaches and volunteers understand their responsibilities, and promoting children's welfare and participation.
The DLPs, on the other hand, have a specific responsibility for dealing with safeguarding concerns that may arise. This includes receiving reports, following the appropriate procedures, maintaining confidentiality and liaising with the relevant safeguarding authorities where necessary.
Although the roles are different, they complement each other, and the DLPs will work closely with the CWO and the wider club to ensure that safeguarding remains a priority at Slyne Head AC.
We want everyone — children, parents, guardians, coaches and volunteers — to feel comfortable raising any concerns or asking questions. The welfare and safety of our young athletes is everyone's responsibility, and we are committed to helping ensure that Slyne Head AC remains a safe and welcoming club for all.