Galway Mountain Rescue Team

We are responsible for search and rescue in the mountains of Western Ireland, primarily in Galway and Clare and are available twenty-four hours a day, 365 days per year. We may also be called to assist one of the other 10 mountain rescue teams in Ireland or other emergency services. GMRT is made up solely of volunteers who are either full members or trainee (aspirant) members. GMRT provide a search and rescue service under what can be at times in difficult physical conditions due to the operation environment often found in Irish mountains and outdoor areas. We in GMRT ensure that insofar as possible children are protected while they are in the care of GMRT in any capacity. We undertake to provide a safe environment and experience, where the welfare of the child/young person is paramount. All GMRT members, both full and trainee (aspirant) members will observe the following good work practices to ensure that every young person remains safe and has a positive experience whether during a search & rescue operation or an education event. All GMRT members who are in contact with young people as part of their role must adopt a child centred approach. This will be done by: GMRT Code Of Practice • Always put the young person's welfare and safety first. • Treat all young people equally and as individuals, with respect and dignity. • Involve young people in decision-making, as appropriate. • Use appropriate language and maintain awareness around language and comments made. If you think that something you said may have caused offence or upset, then try to address it in a sensitive manner. • Respect a young person's personal space. • When providing first aid / medical care do so with the minimum intrusion while ensuring the best care is given. • Keep a written record of any injury that occurs to a young person, along with details of treatment given. • Lead by example and create an atmosphere of trust. • Be cognisant of a young person's limitations, due to a medical condition for example. • Give young people encouragement, support and enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism. • Ensure there are clear channels of communication and access to GMRT members if parents/guardians or young people wish to voice their concerns if there is something they are not happy about. • GMRT members should not work alone with a young person. Where this is unavoidable, for example due to operational demands, it should be with the full consent and knowledge of the parents/guardians as far as this is practical and/or a senior member of GMRT i.e. Party Leader/Incident Manager