Runners Welfare Policy

Clubs Should:

Appoint one Child Protection/Welfare Officer and notify AAAE and territory association of their name and contact details
Accept that all officers and Committee members have responsibilities for upholding the Policy and for responding to any suspected breaches of it
Amend poor practice
Implement recommendations from UKA and AAAE relating to welfare and/ or child protection
Through the club Welfare Officer inform the social services without delay if a concern about child abuse is identified. (If the Welfare Officer is not available, or the concern is about them, then the person with concerns or being informed of them should immediately contact the local social services or the police).
Ensure that contact details for social services, the police and NASPCC are made available to all club organizers, coaches and officials
Maintain confidentiality of those disclosing, those accused of misconduct and any alleged victims
Appoint a disciplinary panel where necessary and operate this in accordance with the AAAE grievance and Disciplinary Procedures. Refer decisions of the disciplinary panel as appropriate.

Treat others with the same respect and fairness that you wish to receive.
Uphold the same values off the field as you do when engaged in athletics.
Anticipate your own needs, be organized and on time.
Thank those who help you participate in athletics.
Inform the coach of any other coaching you are receiving.
Show patience with and respect diversity in others.
Act with dignity at all times.
Notify a responsible adult if you have to go somewhere (why, where and when you will return).
Not respond if someone seeks private information, unrelated to athletics e.g. home life.
Use safe transport or travel arrangements.
Avoid destructive behaviour and leave athletic venues as you find them.
Never engage in any illegal or irresponsible behaviour.
Challenge anyone whose behaviour falls below the expected standards of 'Athletics Welfare'.
Speak out immediately if anything makes you concerned or uncomfortable (telling your parents/carers and or the Club welfare Officer) or if you suspect a club mate has suffered from misconduct by someone else.

Check out the people who are coaching or managing your child.
Take an active interest in your child's participation.
Attend training and competitions whenever possible.
Ensure that your child does not take unnecessary valuable items to training or competition.
Know exactly where your child will be at all times and who they are with.
Return a written informed consent form to the Club Chairman, including next of kin details, health and medical requirements, before your child goes to any 'away' events.
Inform your child's coach of any illness or disability that needs to be taken into consideration for athletic performance.
Provide any necessary medication that your child needs for the duration of any trips.
Never make assumptions about your child's safety.
Parents/carers have a duty to report any concerns they have to the appropriate person.