Barnstaple Swim Club Policy

Code of Conduct for Parents and/or Guardians

 

This policy is written in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Swim England (ASA) in its Wavepower 2024 document.

 

As a registered Swim England Member, and parent/guardian of a Member (under 18 years of age) at the Club, or a parent/guardian of a Club Member (under 18 years of age) but not a registered Swim England Member yourself, you are required to agree to this code of conduct.

 

As a parent/guardian you have the right to:

 

  • Be assured that your child is safeguarded at all times during activity with the club.

 

  • Know who the Welfare Officer(s) is/are and how to contact them.

 

  • Be informed of Wavepower and appropriate safeguarding and welfare reporting procedures.

 

  • Know that any concerns about your child’s welfare will be listened and responded to.

 

  • Know that anyone training or looking after your child at a club activity has the appropriate qualifications, checks and training.

 

  • Be informed of any problems or concerns relating to your child raised by their coach.

 

  • Know how to access the club policies, rules and procedures including the club complaints process and who to contact.

 

  • Provide your consent or otherwise for photography and trips away.

 

As a parent/guardian of a Club Member (under 18 years of age) we expect you to:

 

  • Make sure your child has the right kit for training and competitions.

 

  • Ensure your child arrives to sessions on time and is picked up promptly.

 

  • Let the club know if you’re running late to collect your child, if your child is going home with someone else or you have made alternative arrangements.

 

  • Keep the club up to date with changes in contact details or any medical changes.

 

  • Respect the decisions made by your child’s coach or teacher but understand you have the right to raise any concerns regarding your child. We will arrange a mutually convenient time so you can talk to us.

 

  • Remember that children get a wide range of benefits from participating, including making friends, having regular exercise and developing new skills. It’s not all about winning.

 

  • Not enter poolside or interrupt training or competitions unless in an emergency situation.

 

  • Talk to your child and ensure they understand the rules of the club and the sport.

 

  • Discourage unfair play, arguing with officials and publicly accept official’s judgements.

 

We expect certain standards of behaviour from all club members as well as parents/guardians/grandparents.

 

By agreeing to this Code of Conduct you agree to:

 

  • Behave positively as a spectator at training or competitions and treat others with respect.

 

  • Give encouragement to your child well and provide support when they are struggling.

 

  • Respect and celebrate differences in the club and not discriminate against anyone else on the grounds of gender, race, sexual orientation, faith, ability, or any other relevant characteristic.

 

  • Respect anyone competing for other teams at competitions.

 

  • Respect all volunteers, committee members, coaches and teachers at the club.

 

  • Understand that the use of abusive or inappropriate language, bullying, physical violence or any other behaviour which hurts others will not be tolerated at the club.

 

  • Report any incidents of abuse, bullying or other unacceptable behaviour to the Welfare Officer, even if you’re just a witness.

 

Breaches of this Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action being taken against you by the club committee and any behaviour which may be a criminal offence will be reported to

Police and any other relevant authority, by the club.

 

Continued breaches of this code of conduct by a parent/guardian (whether a member or not) may require the club to stop your child’s continued participation in club activity

 

Effective Date: 14th of January 2025             

Date of next review: 14th of January 2026