Code of Conduct

All members of staff and volunteers agree to:

  • Prioritise the well-being of all children and adults at risk at all times
  • Treat all children and adults at risk fairly and with respect
  • Be a positive role model.
  • Act with integrity, even when no one is looking.
  • Help to create a safe and inclusive environment both on and off court
  • Not allow any rough or dangerous behaviour, bullying or the use of bad or inappropriate language.
  • Report all allegations of abuse or poor practice to the club's Welfare Officer.
  • Not use any sanctions that humiliate or harm a child or adult at risk.
  • Value and celebrate diversity and make all reasonable efforts to meet individual needs.
  • Keep clear boundaries between professional and personal life, including on social media.
  • Have the relevant consent from parents/carers, children and adults before taking or using photos and videos.
  • Refrain from making physical contact with children or adults unless it is necessary as part of an emergency or congratulatory (e.g. handshake/high five).
  • Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol during club activities or coaching sessions.
  • Ensure roles and responsibilities are clearly outlined and everyone has the required information and training.
  • Avoid being alone with a child or adult at risk unless there are exceptional circumstances.
  • Refrain from transporting children or adults at risk, unless this is required as part of a club activity (e.g. away match) and there is another adult in the vehicle.
  • Not abuse, neglect, harm or discriminate against anyone; or act in a way that may be interpreted as such.
  • Not have a relationship with anyone under 18 for whom they are coaching or responsible for.
  • Not to have a relationship with anyone over 18 whilst continuing to coach or be responsible for them.

All children agree to:

  • Be friendly, supportive and welcoming to other children and adults.
  • Play fairly and honestly.
  • Respect club staff, volunteers and Officials and accept their decisions.
  • Behave, respect and listen to your coach.
  • Take care of your equipment and club property.
  • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of age, gender, ability, race, culture, religion or sexual identity.
  • Not use bad, inappropriate or racist language, including on social media.
  • Not bully, intimidate or harass anyone, including on social media.
  • Not smoke, drink alcohol or drugs of any kind on club premises or whilst representing the Club at competitions or events.
  • Talk to the Club's Welfare Officer about any concerns or worries they have about themselves or others.

All adults agree to:

  • Positively reinforce your child and show an interest in their tennis.
  • Use appropriate language at all times.
  • Be realistic and supportive.
  • Never ridicule or admonish a child for making a mistake or losing a match.
  • Treat all children, adults, volunteers, coaches, officials and members of staff with respect.
  • Behave responsibly at the venue; do not embarrass your child.
  • Accept the official’s decisions and do not go on court or interfere with matches.
  • Encourage your child to play by the rules and teach them that they can only do their best.
  • Deliver and collect your child punctually to and from the venue.
  • Ensure your child has appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.
  • Ensure that your child understands their code of conduct.
  • Adhere to the Club's safeguarding policy, diversity and inclusion policy, rules and regulations.
  • Provide emergency contact details and any relevant information about your child including medical history.