Policy Adopted by Committee - September 2018

Policy to be Reviewed by Welfare Officer - September 2020.

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 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 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 from the venue

• Ensure your child has appropriate clothing for the weather conditions

• Ensure that your child understands their code of conduct 

• Adhere to your venue’s safeguarding policy, diversity and inclusion policy, rules and regulations

• Provide emergency contact details and any relevant information about your child including medical history