Brass Bands England (BBE) has appointed a new Safeguarding Manager.

Neil Roberts will be tasked with delivering its next round of important BandSafe training which is essential for organisations to help implement rigorous policies and a requirement for accessing the BBE BOPA (Body of Persons Approval).

He will run training on dates that carry through to the end of the summer. To book a place, visit the Events Section of the BBE website at: https://www.bbe.org.uk/events

Extensive experience

4BR was informed that Neil brings extensive experience in safety and wellbeing of children, as well as vulnerable adults within the arts sector.

He previously worked as a practitioner for a local authority, providing safeguarding training and advice to bands, competitions, schools, film and television productions, as well as performance organisations across the area.

A former journalist and primary school teacher, he is currently a member of his local band where he is learning to play the tenor horn.

Safe and supportive

Speaking about his new role, he said: "Brass banding is a really important part of our heritage. I'm looking forward to making it as easy as possible for bands to welcome the next generation of players into a safe and supportive environment."

Book onto BandSafe training now at: https://www.bbe.org.uk/events