Code of Conduct Parents and Guardians

As a parent or guardian of a club member we understand you have the right to:

  • Be assured that your child is safeguarded during their time with us.
  • Know how to access our club policies, rules and procedures.
  • Know who the Welfare Officer is and how to contact them. 
  • Know that any concerns about your child’s welfare will be listened to and responded to.
  • Know what qualifications and training those with responsibility for your child have.
  • Be informed of problems or concerns relating to your child, where appropriate. 
  • Know the procedure should your child be involved in an accident or become injured. 
  • Provide your consent or otherwise for photography and trips away.
  • Make a complaint to the club committee or Welfare Officer (as appropriate).

As a parent or guardian of a club member we expect you to:

Essentials

  • Make sure your child has the right kit for training and competitions as well as enough food and drink.
  • Ensure your child arrives to sessions on time and is picked up promptly.
  • Inform us if you’re running late to collect your child or if your child is going home with someone else.
  • Complete all consent, contact and medical forms and update us straight away if anything changes.
  • Maintain a good relationship with your child’s coach or teacher.
  • Tell us if you wish to talk to us about any concerns regarding your child. We will arrange a mutually convenient time so you can talk to us.
  • Not enter poolside or interrupt training or competitions unless in an emergency situation.
  • Understand that whilst a child is training, they remain under the responsibility and duty of care of the coach at the time on behalf of the club however this does not mean that the parents have no responsibility.

Behaviour

  • Remember that children get a wide range of benefits from participating in one of our sports, like making friends, getting exercise and developing skills. It’s not all about wins and losses.
  • Behave positively as a spectator at training or competitions and treat others with respect.
  • Give encouragement to your child and tell them when they’ve done well and provide support when they are struggling.
  • Respect and celebrate difference in our club or activity and not discriminate against anyone else on the grounds of gender, race, sexual orientation, faith or ability.
  • Respect the children and adults competing for other teams at competitions. 
  • Respect the committee members, coaching and teaching team and all volunteer helpers 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 by the club.
  •  Understand that poor behaviour may result in the club taking disciplinary action against you. Any behaviour which alleges a criminal offence will be reported to police by the club.
  •  Talk to your child and ensure they understand the rules of the club and the sport.
  •   Ensure your child understands their Code of Conduct.

Changing Rooms/Changing Villages

  • If I enter the changing rooms/changing village I will respect the privacy of others, especially around the changing facilities.
  • I will respect the pool staff, pool facilities, equipment and other pool users. When using or sharing facilities with the public or in the public eye I will behave in a manner that reflects the good name of the club.
  • Changing facilities (including shower and toilet areas) at venues may be shared by both club members and members of the general public so parents will be on their best behaviour and respect others.
  • Mobile phones, digital devices and/or image capturing equipment should not be used under any circumstances in a changing room/changing village. All uses of any of these devices in the changing rooms must be reported to the welfare officer and venue.

Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action being taken against you by the club committee. Continued issues and repeated breaches may result in parents/ guardians being asked not to attend the club, something we never want to do.

Update January 2024