The Club complies with General Data Protection Regulations and takes safeguarding seriously.  It is important that ALL members are familiar with our Club policies as these reflect current laws regarding child protection, data protection and LTA guidelines.  The Club’s policies are widely promoted and mandatory for everyone involved in the Club.  Failure to comply with these will be addressed and may result in dismissal/exclusion from the Club.  You can find all BTC Policies listed below.  Please take some time to read through them - they exist to protect everyone and help to ensure we all have fun and feel safe at Blairgowrie Tennis Club. 

Welfare Officers - the first point of contact if you have a safeguarding concern. Also see Safeguarding tab.

03 Privacy Policy - This policy explains how Blairgowrie Tennis Club collects and uses our members’ personal data.

04a Safeguarding Policy Summary and

04b Safeguarding Policy - The Club recognises that the welfare and interests of children and adults at risk are paramount in all circumstances. This policy applies to any person who plays, coaches, officiates, works, volunteers, or otherwise participates (or visits) at our venue.  We are committed to prioritising the well-being of children/adults at risk and providing a safe and welcoming environment where they are respected and valued. We are alert to the signs of abuse and neglect and follow our procedures to ensure that children/adults at risk receive effective support and protection.  Includes Codes of Conduct and Reporting a Concern Procedures. 

05a Photography, Film & Publicity Policy - This policy details how the Club uses and publishes photographs and videos of our members.  

05b Photographs/Videos Opt-out Form - Please complete, sign and return this form to the MembershipSecretary if you wish to opt out of the above policy, ie. you do NOT want to be included in photos/videos. 

06 Whistleblowing Policy - In the context of safeguarding, “whistle blowing” is when someone raises a concern about the well-being of a child or an adult at risk.

07 Diversity and Inclusion Policy - This Policy sets out our commitment to diversity and inclusion that are designed to ensure that: tennis is diverse and inclusive, diversity and inclusion are embedded in our Club’s culture and our behaviours, we take a proactive approach to ensure that communities and individuals are valued and able to achieve their full potential.

It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of: age, being or becoming a transsexual person, being married or in a civil partnership, being pregnant or on maternity leave, disability, race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, belief or lack of religion/belief, sex, sexual orientation. These are called ‘protected characteristics’.  People are protected from discrimination: at work, in education, as a consumer, when using public services, when buying or renting property, as a member or guest of a private club or association.

08 Sun Safety Policy - We promote sun safety at all times, and want all participants to be protected from the harmful UV rays of the sun during free play, matches, and coaching. This policy provides guidance on how to minimise risks.

09 Changing Room Policy (DRAFT) - Not applicable at this time because we don't have changing rooms. 

10 Anti Bullying Policy - This document sets out how to help prevent bullying and sets out how to make sure bullying is stopped and that those involved receive the support they need.  It also provides information to all staff, volunteers, children and their families about what should be done to prevent and deal with bullying.

11 Safe Recruitment Policy - We use safe recruitment practices, including: criminal records checks (CRCs), references, role descriptions providing clear details about boundaries and responsibilities, and policies including codes of conduct. 

12a BTC Online Safety and Communication 0324 - The purpose of this policy is to:

• protect children involved with our Club and who use technology (eg. mobile phones, tablets, games consoles and the internet)
• provide staff, coaches, volunteers, players, parents/carers and any other individuals associated with the Club with policy and procedure information regarding online safety and inform them how to respond to incidents
• ensure our Club operates within the law regarding online behaviours.

12b Statement of Acceptable Use of Internet and Social Media 0324 - ALL parents/young people MUST read and agree to comply with this statement. It is here for information only because it is already included in the membership application process.  

14 Management & Maintenance Policy -  Effective and efficient management and maintenance are essential to the longevity of our facility. The Club’s Facility Maintenance Officer is responsible for ensuring this plan is implemented. All maintenance projects and related expenditure are subjected to a full decision process at committee meetings.

Codes of Conduct - These should be interpreted in a spirit of integrity, transparency and common sense, with the best interests of children and vulnerable adults as the primary consideration. Members are encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club. 

Volunteers Welcome Pack - This information pack is for anyone wanting to know more about volunteering in our club. Volunteering is a great way to improve your sense of purpose and belonging, connect with others and contribute meaningfully to a good cause. It has also been shown to improve wellbeing and reduce isolation.

Further Reading:

Data protection laws and guidance: Information Commissioner's Office

LTA : Safeguarding