Welfare & safeguarding

We follow England Athletics' Child Protection and Adult Safeguarding policies, and all members, coaches, volunteers and officials follow the England Athletics and UKA codes of conduct. Policies are reviewed annually or after any significant incident or change in legislation.

Enhanced DBS checks for all coaches and volunteers working with children and adults at risk, safeguarding training (Time to Listen for all volunteers, Good Practice and Safeguarding Workshop for those in positions of responsibility), regular renewal of checks and training, and adherence to England Athletics pathways. Our coaches hold appropriate England Athletics qualifications.

We follow strict guidelines on appropriate use of images in club communications, safe social media practice and protecting personal information. Photos and videos are for personal use only, and please do not post images of other children on social media without permission. See our social media policy (opens in a new tab).

Be on time and allow extra time for parking and registration. Communicate: keep coaches and team managers informed, use the right channels (Spond, WhatsApp, email) and let us know if your child will be absent. Encourage effort, learning and good sportsmanship and focus on your child's development, not just results. Practical support: help with transport when needed, make sure your child has the right kit and equipment, and provide healthy food, snacks and plenty of fluids.

At competitions: stay behind the barriers and in the spectator areas, let the coaches and officials do their job, avoid giving technical advice (that's the coach's role) and be positive. Support all athletes, not just your own child, and respect coaches, officials, volunteers and other spectators. Park considerately, keep walkways and the infield clear, take litter home, and check Spond for updates.

Open communication between athletes, parents and coaches, clear guidance on appropriate behaviour, celebrating effort as well as results, and maintaining professional boundaries.