Club Code of Conduct

Our committee and members will

• Adopt national welfare policies and procedures as necessary, adhere to our Code of Conduct and respond to any suspected breaches in accordance with our Welfare Procedures.

• Require members to agree to follow this Code of Conduct as a requirement of annual club membership.

• Appoint a Designated Safeguarding Officer and ensure that they are provided with appropriate information to act as a first point of contact for concerns about welfare issues.

• Ensure that all coaches operating within the club environment hold the appropriate coaching qualifications/licences and have undertaken an Enhanced DBS (previously CRB) check.

• Ensure that coaches, technical officials and club officers receive a briefing on welfare and safeguarding children & vulnerable adults as appropriate.

• Liaise appropriately/as necessary with parents/persons with parental responsibility, officials, coaches, national governing bodies and other relevant people/organisations to ensure that good practice within our club is maintained.

• Provide contact details for Children’s Services, the Police and N.S.P.C.C. to club coaches.

• Ensure that club coaches, officers and members always act responsibly and set an example to others including younger members.

• Always refrain from airing their grievances towards other members at training, on all Social Media Websites, and at Club Social gatherings, any grievances witnessed is required to inform the Club Secretary at the earliest moment available.

• Wear a full and appropriate training kit during training sessions and during all activities in which the club is represented.

• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every club member and others involved in athletics and treat everyone with equal regard.

• Consistently promote positive aspects of the sport such as fair play and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited or age-inappropriate substances.

• Avoid swearing and abusive language and irresponsible behaviour, including behaviour that is dangerous to self and others, acts of violence, bullying, harassment and physical and sexual abuse, and challenge inappropriate behaviour and language by others.

• Challenge inappropriate behaviour and language by others and ensure that concerns are communicated to welfare and club officers.

• Place the welfare and safety of the athlete above other considerations including the development of performance.

• Report any suspected misconduct by club officials, coaches, technical officials or other people involved in athletics to the club Designated Safeguarding Officer and report concerns to the appropriate body/organisation, if necessary.

• Encourage all those involved with the club in whatever capacity, to remain vigilant to breaches of this Code of Conduct and report any concerns immediately.

The member will

• Accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance in training and in competition;

• Treat others with fairness and respect, showing patience with others and respecting diversity;

• Act in a dignified manner and not bring the sport or the club into disrepute;

• Avoid swearing and abusive language and irresponsible behaviour including behaviour that is dangerous to yourself or others, acts of violence, bullying, harassment and physical or sexual abuse;

• Participate in sessions with enthusiasm and to the best of their abilities;

• Inform their coach of any other coaching they are receiving;

• Follow the coaches' instructions, including taking responsibility for reading the briefings and risk assessment for the session;

• Turn up in good time for the start of the session with suitable footwear and gear, and with adequate arrangements for post-training re-hydration and nutrition made;

• Let the coach know of any factors liable to have an impact on their ability to train or compete or their long-term health (e.g. wellness or health issues, medication, injury, illness, impending or recent competition, work or home pressures);

• Whilst in an athlete role, strictly observe a clear boundary between friendship and intimacy with the coach(es);

• If junior, notify a responsible adult if you have to go somewhere (why, where and when you will return);

• Avoid destructive behaviour and leave athletics venues as you find them;

• Report any suspected misconduct by other coaches to the Designated Safeguarding Officer in the first instance;

• Give feedback to the coach on how the session felt for them and whether there are any consequential problems;

• Take personal responsibility for warming up before the session and cooling down including stretching after the session;

• Show appreciation to those throughout the club who help them participate in athletics, including the coaches;

• Consistently promote positive aspects of the sport such as fair play and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited or age-inappropriate substances;

• Never place undue pressure on anyone to perform, participate or compete;