West Tanfield Tennis Club is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its members, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all. Any members not following the code of conduct risk having their membership rescinded.

Code of Conduct for Members

As a member of West Tanfield Tennis Club, you are expected to abide by the following Code of Conduct:

• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.

• Respect the valuable contribution made by all members of the Committee, Team Captains and other volunteers. They give their time and resources to provide the service that the Club   provides for you.

• Respect the decisions made by the Club and the coaches. Suggestions are welcome and a suggestions box is placed in the Club house

• Should be a positive role model, treat other players, volunteers, the Committee and other visitors with the same level of respect that they would expect to be shown to them.

• Use correct and proper language at all times.

• Respect the Club facilities.

• Members are not allowed to use drugs on Club premises or whilst representing the Club. (Unless otherwise medically prescribed).

• Members must wear suitable tennis kit at all times.

• Members must pay any fees for Courts, Coaching, Tournaments or other events promptly.

• Treat all other members as you would like to be treated yourself. Bullying of any sort will not be tolerated.

• Members should encourage everyone to enjoy sport and understand that people have different motivations for taking part.

• All accidents must be reported to the Welfare Officer and will subsequently be treated by a First Aider if available and as appropriate.

Code of Conduct for Team Players

In addition to the Code of Conduct for Members, players should also:-

• Respect the Team Captain and support their decisions.

• Representing the Club is a privilege and all members doing so are seen as Ambassadors for the Club; therefore their behaviour must be beyond reproach at all times.

• Act in a sporting manner and show respect for their opponents.

• Show respect for the equipment and facilities.

Code of Conduct for Committee Members

Committee members are expected to:-

• Act at all times within the Constitution of the club.

• Act fairly and honestly in all matters and consider what is best for the club and all members, not just for themselves.

• Not seek personal gain or favour when acting as an agent for the club, nor seek benefit of any kind.

• Disclose to the Committee members before or during any matter being discussed where they may have personal, professional, institutional or family interests or loyalties which may lead to a conflict of interest.

• Maintain confidentiality on any matter discussed at Committee meetings or at Committee level considered by the Chairperson to be of a sensitive or delicate nature and not to be disseminated.

• Ensure that equal opportunities for participation in tennis are made available to all members regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.

• Ensure that club facilities and all equipment are/is safe and appropriate.

• Ensure that adequate supervision is provided to young players by qualified and competent coaches capable of developing appropriate sports behaviour and skills.

• Assist in the creation of an environment where every individual member has the opportunity to participate in and enjoy the Club’s facilities.

• Recognise the right of all members to be treated as individuals.

Code of Conduct for Coaches

Coaches are expected to:-

• Maintain association with their governing body through annual registration / licensing, therefore holding appropriate qualifications and DBS checks and holding their own insurance

• Continue personal and professional growth, remaining current on new developments in the field through continuing education.

• Use their knowledge and professional expertise for the benefit of the people they serve. Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking part.

• Coaches must demonstrate proper personal behaviour and conduct at all times, projecting a favourable image of tennis and coaching.

• Make a commitment to provide a quality service.