Information and guidance for joining sports clubs

If you are thinking about taking your child to a club or organisation there are a number of things you should think about:

Does the group have a child protection policy and is it available for new members to look at if they want to?

A child protection policy will indicate that the club has thought about the wellbeing of their young people and that set procedures are in place to safeguard these young people.

Are the leaders, coaches etc CRB (criminal record bureaux) checked?

A CRB check is done to make sure that leaders/coaches do not have previous criminal convictions, which may affect whether they are allowed to work with children.  An enhanced enclosure will also detail any allegations made to the police in the past.

Are there trained first aiders present at all times and is there an appropriate procedure for accidents?

This is to ensure that should your child have an accident they are in the best hands.

Are the leaders/coaches appropriately qualified and insured to lead/coach?

If the coaches are not qualified, this may lead to unsafe practice and risks.  All qualified coaches should have insurance to cover their activities.

What are the leader/coach to young person ratios?

The ratio will vary depending on activity, but if there are a high number of children to each coach, accidents are more likely to occur.

Does the club or group have the correct public liability insurance?

This will cover the club should any accidents happen and the policy should payout for any injury or damage caused.

Has the group carried out risk assessments for the equipment and activities they provide?

Risk assessments are there to ensure that activities are carried out safely and that any risks are managed effectively.

Is the group/club or organisation affiliated to the appropriate organisation?

Sports Clubs should be affiliated to their appropriate governing body (e.g.Football Association for football) and play schemes should be affiliated to OFSTED.