In line with current LTA safeguarding advice, Sidford Tennis Club has developed this policy and guidelines regarding the supervision of children under 18 years of age whilst at the club.

: STC recommends that children under the age of 13 must be supervised by a parent/guardian whilst at the club playing outside of a coaching session, tennis camp or an organised club activity. 

: The online court booking should be made by the parent/guardian on behalf of the junior which indicates parental/guardian responsibility and consent for the play. The parent/guardian must remain present at the club for the session of play. 

: When attending coaching sessions, children under 13 should not arrive alone or leave the club alone unless prior arrangement has been agreed with the coaching team. 

: Parents/guardians must collect their child from any coaching session promptly at the finishing time as the coaching team is only responsible for the child during the set time they are attending their activity. 

: Children under 13 should never be left unsupervised by their parent/guardian even if other adults are present at the club. 

: If a parent/guardian is unable to supervise their own child, they need to make clear arrangements to designate the responsibility of supervision to another adult. The coaching team must be made aware of such arrangements. 

: Junior members over the age of 13 may play at the club unsupervised by a parent/guardian if their parent/guardian judges it appropriate for their child. The court booking should be made by the parent/guardian to indicate that consent is given. 

: If a junior member over the age of 13 is playing an adult member outside of their own family, the court must be booked by the parent/guardian of the junior, giving the names of those playing to indicate consent. 

: Junior members over the age of 16 may be considered for their own ClubSpark account in order to book courts. The parent/guardian should email the club to give their consent and their child’s details. We would recommend that parents/guardians regularly check the online booking sheet to confirm with whom their child is playing with. 

Sidford Tennis Club continues to remain committed to safeguarding our members to ensure the safe environment in which our junior members can play, develop and thrive.