Terms & Conditions
GYMFORCE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
For some of your personal information you will have a legal, contractual or other requirement or obligation for you to provide us with your personal information. If you do not provide us with the requested personal information we may not be able to admit you as a member or we may not be able to properly perform our contract with you or comply with legal obligations and we may have to terminate your membership. For other personal information you may not be under an obligation to provide it to us, but if you do not provide it then we may not be able to properly perform our contract with you.
Where you have given us your consent to use your personal information in a particular manner, you have the right to withdraw this consent at any time, which you may do by contacting us as described in the "Contacting us" section below.
Please note however that the withdrawal of your consent will not affect any use of the data made before you withdrew your consent and we may still be entitled to hold and process the relevant personal information to the extent that we are entitled to do so on bases other than your consent. Withdrawing consent may also have the same effects as not providing the information in the first place, for example we may no longer be able to provide certain member benefits to you.
DIRECT MARKETING
Email, post and SMS marketing: from time to time, we may contact you by email, post or SMS with information about products and services we believe you may be interested in.
We will only send marketing messages to you in accordance with the marketing preferences you set. You can then let us know at any time that you do not wish to receive marketing messages by emailing us at Bethan@gymforce.co.uk. You can also unsubscribe from our marketing by ‘unsubscribe’ to any of the marketing messages we send to you.
DISCLOSURE OF YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We share personal information with the following parties:
Any party approved by you.
To any governing bodies or regional bodies for the sports covered by our club:to allow them to properly administer the sports on a local, regional and national level.
Other service providers: for example, email marketing specialists, payment processors, data analysis CCTV contractors, promotional advisors, contractors or suppliers and IT services (including CRM, website, video- and teleconference services);
Our supply chain partners and sub-contractors, such as couriers, import/export agents, shippers,
Our Commercial Partners:for the purposes of providing you with information on any tickets, special offers, opportunities, products and services and other commercial benefits provided by our commercial partners where you have given your express permission.
The Government or our regulators: where we are required to do so by law or to assist with their investigations or initiatives.
Police, law enforcement and security services: to assist with the investigation and prevention of crime and the protection of national security.
Our Social Media Team: to promote and advertise the club, and for birthday messages, where express permission has been given.
TRANSFERRING YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION INTERNATIONALLY
The personal information we collect may be transferred to and stored in countries outside of the UK and the European Union. Some of these jurisdictions require different levels of protection in respect of personal information and, in certain instances, the laws in those countries may be less protective than the jurisdiction you are typically resident in. We will take all reasonable steps to ensure that your personal information is only used in accordance with this privacy notice and applicable data protection laws and is respected and kept secure and where a third part processes your data on our behalf we will put in place appropriate safeguards as required under data protection laws. For further details please contact us by using the details set out in the "Contacting us" section below.
HOW LONG DO WE KEEP PERSONAL INFORMATION FOR?
The duration for which we retain your personal information will differ depending on the type of information and the reason why we collected it from you. However, in some cases personal information may be retained on a long-term basis: for example, personal information that we need to retain for legal purposes will normally be retained in accordance with usual commercial practice and regulatory requirements. Generally, where there is no legal requirement we retain all physical and electronic records for a period 12 months after your last contact with us or the end of your membership. Exceptions to this rule are:
CCTV records which are held for no more than 30 days unless we need to preserve the records for the purpose of prevention and detection of crime;
Details regarding unsuccessful membership applicants where we hold records for a period of not more than 3 months;
Information that may be relevant to personal injury or discrimination claims may be retained until the limitation period for those types of claims has expired. For personal injury or discrimination claims this can be an extended period as the limitation period might not start to run until a long time after the event.
It is important to ensure that the personal information we hold about you is accurate and up-to-date, and you should let us know if anything changes, for example if you change your phone number or email address. You will be able to update the personal information we hold about you through our membership portal. Alternatively, you can contact us by using the details set out in the "Contacting us" section below.
YOUR RIGHTS IN RELATION TO PERSONAL INFORMATION
You have the following rights in relation to your personal information:
the right to be informed about how your personal information is being used;
the right to access the personal information we hold about you;
the right to request the correction of inaccurate personal information we hold about you;
the right to request the erasure of your personal information in certain limited circumstances;
the right to restrict processing of your personal information where certain requirements are met;
the right to object to the processing of your personal information;
the right to request that we transfer elements of your data either to you or another service provider; and
the right to object to certain automated decision-making processes using your personal information.
You should note that some of these rights, for example the right to require us to transfer your data to another service provider or the right to object to automated decision making, may not apply as they have specific requirements and exemptions which apply to them and they may not apply to personal information recorded and stored by us. For example, we do not use automated decision making in relation to your personal data. However, some have no conditions attached, so your right to withdraw consent or object to processing for direct marketing are absolute rights.
Whilst this privacy notice sets out a general summary of your legal rights in respect of personal information, this is a very complex area of law. More information about your legal rights can be found on the Information Commissioner’s website at https://ico.org.uk/for-the-public/.
To exercise any of the above rights, or if you have any questions relating to your rights, please contact us by using the details set out in the "Contacting us" section below.
If you are unhappy with the way we are using your personal information you can also complain to the UK Information Commissioner’s Office or your local data protection regulator. We are here to help and encourage you to contact us to resolve your complaint first.
CHANGES TO THIS NOTICE
We may update this privacy notice from time to time. When we change this notice in a material way, we will update the version date at the bottom of this page. For significant changes to this notice we will try to give you reasonable notice unless we are prevented from doing so. Where required by law we will seek your consent to changes in the way we use your personal information.
CONTACTING US
In the event of any query or complaint in connection with the information we hold about you, please email Bethan@gymforce.co.uk or write to us at GymFocre, Unit 3, Greyhound Industrial Estate, Melford Road, Hazel Grove, Stockport, SK7 6DD
ANTI-BULLYING POLICY STATEMENT
GymForce Gymnastics Club aims on tackling bullying
Policy objectives:
• This policy outlines what GGC will do to prevent and tackle all forms of bullying.
• GGC is committed to developing an anti-bullying culture where the bullying of adults, children or young people is not tolerated in any form.
Links with other Club policies and practices This policy links with a number of other policies, practices and action plans including:
• Codes of Conduct
• Welfare Officer Contact
• Child protection Policy
• BG Safeguarding Policy
Links to legislation There are a number of pieces of legislation which set out measures and actions in response to bullying, as well as criminal and civil law. These may include (but are not limited to):
• The Equality Act 2010
• The Children Act 1989
• Protection from Harassment Act 1997
• The Malicious Communications Act 1988
• Public Order Act 1986
We believe that bullying is wrong and it damages individual children. Therefore, we do everything we can to prevent it, by developing a Club wide ethos in which bullying is regarded as unacceptable. We aim to produce and maintain a safe and secure environment where all gymnasts can develop and progress without anxiety. This policy aims to produce a consistent response to any bullying incidents which may occur.
Responsibilities It is the responsibility of:
• The Club Committee, Welfare Officers and Operations Manager to communicate this policy to the Club community, to ensure that disciplinary measures are applied fairly, consistently and reasonably, and that a member of the senior leadership team has been identified to take overall responsibility.
• Welfare Officers to take a lead role in monitoring and reviewing this policy.
• All staff, including: committee member, volunteers, senior leadership and all staff (full and part-time) to support, uphold and implement this policy accordingly.
• Parents/carers to support their children and work in partnership with the Club.
• Gymnasts to abide by the policy and show respect, tolerance and team work with peers and coaches.
Definition of bullying
• Bullying is “behaviour by an individual or a group, repeated over time that intentionally hurts another individual either physically or emotionally”. (DfE “Preventing and Tackling Bullying” 2017)
• Bullying can include: name calling, taunting, mocking, making offensive comments; kicking; hitting; taking belongings; producing offensive graffiti; gossiping; excluding people from groups and spreading hurtful and untruthful rumours.
• This includes the same unacceptable behaviours expressed online, sometimes called online or cyberbullying. This can include: sending offensive, upsetting and inappropriate messages by phone, text, instant messenger, through gaming, websites, social media sites and apps, and sending offensive or degrading photos or videos.
• Bullying can be a form of peer on peer abuse and can be emotionally abusive; it can cause severe and adverse effects on children’s emotional development.
Bullying is action taken by one or more person(s) with the deliberate intention of hurting another child over a period of time.
Bullying can be:
• Emotional: being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g hiding clothes or equipment, threatening gestures)
• Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
• Racist: racial taunts, graffiti, gestures
• Sexual: unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments
• Homophobic: because of, of focussing on the issue of sexuality • Verbal: name calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, teasing
• Cyber: All areas of internet, such as e-mail and internet chat room misuse. Mobile threats by text messaging and calls. Misuse of associated technology, i.e camera and video facilities.
Forms of bullying covered by this policy
• Bullying can happen to anyone. This policy covers all types of bullying including: Bullying related to race, religion, nationality or culture
• Bullying related to SEND (Special Educational Needs or Disability)
• Bullying related to appearance or physical/mental health conditions
• Bullying related to sexual orientation (homophobic bullying)
• Bullying of young carers, children in care or otherwise related to home circumstances
• Sexist, sexual and transphobic bullying
• Bullying via technology, known as online or cyberbullying
Signs and Symptoms
A child may indicate by signs or behaviour that he or she is being bullied. It is important for adults to be aware of these possible signs and should investigate if a child:
• is frightened or unwilling of coming to gym
• becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence cries themselves to sleep at night or has nightmares feels ill during sessions
• begins to do poorly in their performance
• has possessions which are damaged or ‘go missing’
• has unexplained cuts and bruises (see Child Protection Policy)
• becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable
• is bullying other children or siblings
• stops eating
• is frightened to say what’s wrong
• gives improbable excuses for any of the above
• is afraid to use the internet or mobile phone
• is nervous and jumpy when a cyber message is received
These signs and behaviours could also indicate other problems, but bullying should be considered a possibility and be investigated. GymForce Gymnastics Club recognises that bullying, especially if left unaddressed, can have a devastating effect on individuals; it can create a barrier to not only the performance of a gymnast, but more importantly it can have serious consequences for mental wellbeing. By effectively preventing and tackling bullying, our Club can help to create safe, disciplined environment, where members are able to fulfil their potential in a fun, safe and secure environment.
To support our anti-bullying ethos, our Club
• Monitors and reviews our anti-bullying policy and practice on a regular basis. Supports staff to promote positive relationships, to help prevent bullying.
• Recognises that some members of our community may be more vulnerable to bullying and its impact than others; being aware of this will help us to develop effective strategies to prevent bullying from happening and provide appropriate support, if required.
• Will intervene by identifying and tackling bullying behaviour appropriately and promptly.
• Ensures our members are aware that bullying concerns will be dealt with sensitively and effectively; that everyone should feel safe to learn and abide by the anti-bullying policy.
• Requires all members of the Club community to work with the us to uphold the anti-bullying policy.
• Reports back to parents/carers regarding concerns on bullying, dealing promptly with complaints.
• Seeks to learn from good anti-bullying practice elsewhere.
• Utilises support from other relevant organisations when appropriate (e.g. NSPCC, British Gymnastics, ThinkUKnow)
Responding to Bullying Allegations
The following steps may be taken when dealing with all incidents of bullying reported to GymForce Gymnastics Club:
• If bullying is suspected or reported, the incident will be dealt with immediately by the welfare office, who has been approached or witnessed the concern.
• The welfare officer will provide appropriate support for the person being bullied – making sure they are not at risk of immediate harm and will involve them in any decision-making, as appropriate.
• The welfare officer will interview all parties involved.
• The welfare officer will inform other staff members, and parents/ carers, where appropriate. Sanctions and support for individuals will be implemented, in consultation with all parties concerned.
• If necessary, other agencies may be consulted or involved, such as: the police (if a criminal offence has been committed) or other local services including early help or children’s social care (if a child is felt to be at risk of significant harm).
• Where the bullying takes place off site or outside of the Club times (including cyberbullying), the Club will ensure that the concern is fully investigated. Appropriate action will be taken, including providing support and implementing sanctions in the Club in accordance with the behaviour codes of conduct/ policy.
• A clear and precise account of the incident will be recorded by the welfare officers in accordance with existing procedures. This will include recording appropriate details regarding decisions and action taken.
When responding to cyberbullying concerns, the Club will:
• Act as soon as an incident has been reported or identified.
• Provide appropriate support for the person who has been cyberbullied and work with the person who has carried out the bullying to ensure that it does not happen again.
• Encourage the person being bullied to keep any evidence (screenshots) of the bullying activity to assist any investigation.
• Take all available steps where possible to identify the person responsible. This may include: looking at use of the procedures and systems;
• identifying and interviewing possible witnesses;
• Contacting the service provider and the police, if necessary.
• Work with the individuals and online service providers to prevent the incident from spreading and assist in removing offensive or upsetting material from circulation.
This may include:
• Support reports to a service provider to remove content if those involved are unable to be identified or if those involved refuse to or are unable to delete content.
• Banning or restricting the use of mobile devices within the gymnastics hall and child led areas.
• Requesting the deletion of locally-held content and content posted online if they contravene behavioural policies.
Gymnasts who have been bullied will be supported by:
• Reassuring the child and providing continuous support.
• Offering an immediate opportunity to discuss the experience with the welfare officer or a member of staff of their choice that they are comfortable with
• Being advised to keep a record of the bullying as evidence and discuss how respond to concerns and build resilience as appropriate.
• Working towards restoring self-esteem and confidence.
• Providing ongoing support; this may include: working and speaking with staff, offering welfare meetings or drop ins, engaging with parents and carers.
Gymnasts who have perpetrated the bullying will be helped by:
• Discussing what happened, establishing the concern and the need to change.
• Informing parents/carers to help change the attitude and behaviour of the child.
• Providing appropriate knowledge and support regarding their behaviour or actions.
• If online, requesting that content be removed and reporting accounts/content to service provider.
• Sanctioning, in line with behaviour conduct policy (in extreme circumstances this may mean the removal of membership from the Club.)
• Where necessary, working with the wider community and local/national organisations to provide further or specialist advice and guidance
Supporting adults Our Club takes measures to prevent and tackle bullying among gymnasts; however, it is equally important to recognise that bullying of staff and parents, whether by children, parents or other staff members, is unacceptable.
Adults (staff and parents) who have been bullied or affected will be supported by:
• Offering an immediate opportunity to discuss the concern with the welfare team
• Advising them to keep a record of the bullying as evidence and discuss how to respond to concerns and build resilience, as appropriate.
• Where the bullying takes place off site or outside of normal hours (including online), the Club will still investigate the concern and ensure that appropriate action is taken in accordance with the behaviour policy and code of conduct.
• Reporting offensive or upsetting content and/or accounts to the service provider, where the bullying has occurred online.
• Reassuring and offering appropriate support.
• Working with the wider community and local/national organisations to provide further or specialist advice and guidance
Preventing bullying
Environment The Club community will:
• Create and support an inclusive environment which promotes a culture of mutual respect, consideration and care for others, which will be upheld by all.
• Recognise that bullying can be perpetrated or experienced by any member of the Club community, including adults and children (peer on peer abuse).
• Openly discuss differences between people that could motivate bullying, such as: religion, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexuality or appearance related difference. Also children with different family situations, such as looked after children or those with caring responsibilities.
• Challenge practice and language which does not uphold the values of tolerance, non-discrimination and respect towards others.
• Be encouraged to use technology, especially mobile phones and social media positively and responsibly (see social media policy)
• Work with staff, the wider community and outside agencies to prevent and tackle concerns including all forms of prejudice-driven bullying.
• Actively create “safe spaces” for vulnerable children and young people. These can include human resources such as the welfare team.
• Celebrate success and achievements to promote and build a positive Club ethos.
Monitoring
The policy will be reviewed annually and should be read in conjunction with the British Gymnastics Child Protection and Anti-Bullying Policies.
Useful links and supporting organisations
• Anti-Bullying Alliance: www.antibullyiWGClliance.org.uk
• Childline: www.childline.org.uk
• Family Lives: www.familylives.org.uk
• Kidscape: www.kidscape.org.uk
• MindEd: www.minded.org. uk
•NSPCC: www.nspcc.org.u k
• The BIG Award: www.bullyinginterventiongroup.co.uk/index.php
• Victim Support: www.victimsupport.org.uk
• Young Minds: www.youngminds.org.uk
SEND
• Changing Faces: www.changingfaces.org.uk
• Mencap: www.mencap.org.uk
• Anti-Bullying Alliance Cyberbullying and children and young people with SEN and disabilities: www.cafamily.org.uk/media/750755/cyberbullying_and_send_- _module_final.pdf
• DfE: SEND code of practice: www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-ofpractice-0-to-25
Cyberbullying
• Childnet International: www.childnet.com
• Digizen: www.digizen.org
• Internet Watch Foundation: www.iwf.org.uk
• Think U Know: www.thinkuknow.co.uk
• UK Safer Internet Centre: www.saferinternet.org.uk
• The UK Council for Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS) www.gov.uk/government/groups/uk-council-for-child-internet-safety-ukccis
SAFEGUARDING & CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
GymForce Gymnastics Club (GGC) is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all our members and ensuring that those working with children and vulnerable adults will adopt best practice to ensure the highest standards of care. The Club believes it is important that all associated members, coaches, administrators and parents should show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others.
The Club adheres to and follows the British Gymnastics Safeguarding & Protecting Children Policy and Health, Safety & Welfare Policies, and this document (which sets out how the Club discharges its statutory responsibilities relating to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of members of our Club) should be read in conjunction with the British Gymnastics policies, which are available through our website, for a comprehensive approach to how we safeguard and promote child protection.
One of GGC objectives is: ‘providing a high quality of gymnastic activities in a supportive, friendly, progressive and safe environment aiming to help each gymnast reach their fullest potential.’
Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families and carers has a role to play in safeguarding children. In order to fulfil this responsibility effectively, all professionals should make sure their approach is child-centred. This means that they should consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child. A child should be able to go to GGC and feel safe so that they can achieve their very best and enjoy their gymnastics activities.
Safeguarding and child protection is an important subject in which all staff receive training through approved British Gymnastics providers. Our priority is to work with parents/carers but there may be times when we have to involve other people. Everybody has a responsibility to keep all children under the age of 18 safe.
GymForce Gymnastics Club has a statutory responsibility to share any concerns it may have about a child in need of protection with other agencies and in particular police, health and children’s social care. GGC is not able to investigate these concerns but have a legal duty to refer them. In most instances, GGC will be able to inform the parents/carer of its need to make a referral.
However, sometimes the Club is advised by children’s social care or police that the parent/carer cannot be informed whilst they investigate the matter. We understand the anxiety parents/carers understandably feel when they are not told about any concerns from the outset. The Club follows legislation that aims to act in the interests of the child.
Safeguarding Issues
Attendance - Your child's attendance is monitored and significant absences are always followed up by the coaching team. This is also important for coaches to be aware of any illness or health requirements which may affect their training.
Behaviour – GGC has clear behaviour rules for the whole Club community that must be followed to keep everyone safe and happy. There are codes of conduct that we expect all members (and parents/carers) to follow. GGC will not tolerate any threatening or abusive behaviour towards any member of the Club.
We understand that children do sometimes fall out and this will be dealt with by an adult (Coach, Staff Member or Welfare Officer) who will listen to the children involved and help resolve the situation, according to our codes of conduct. Bullying - The Club takes all cases of bullying very seriously and will work with children and families to try and resolve any problems. The Club has an anti-bullying policy that you should read and understand. You can also contact our Welfare Officer directly about anti-bullying concerns.
Health and Safety - Everyone at GGC has a responsibility to keep adults and children safe within the gym environment. The Club has a clear health and safety policy which everyone must follow. The Club has trained first aiders to assist with any accidents in the gym.
E‐safety - The Club recognises that technology plays an important role in the education of our children and is committed to safeguarding children in the virtual world. Parents/carers should inform their child’s coach if they do not wish for their child to be included on any photographs or social media publicity. The Club follows a social media policy, which is available from the website. We advise that gymnasts under the age of 16, should not be in personal contact via email, Facebook and social media with coaches, but that communication should be relayed through parents.
Confidentiality
• All matters relating to safeguarding and child protection are strictly confidential
• The Welfare Officer will disclose personal information about a gymnast to other members of staff on a need to know basis only
• Staff will be informed of relevant details only when the Welfare Officer feels their having knowledge of a situation will improve their ability to deal with an individual gymnast
• A written record will be made of what information has been shared, with whom, and when
• All staff must be aware that they cannot promise a child to keep secrets which might compromise the child’s own safety or well-being, or that of another child
• All welfare disclosures are taken seriously and will be investigated initially by our Welfare Officer
• Where significant concerns arise, the Welfare Officer may seek support from the Regional Welfare team, the GGC Welfare Director or British Gymnastics.
Specific Expectations
The Club will ensure:
• Robust and rigorous recruitment procedures for employees and volunteers. Our recruitment and selection policy includes all appropriate checks on employee suitability including Disclosure and Barring Service checks (formerly Criminal Records Bureau checks)
• The name of any individual considered not suitable to work with children will be notified to either the Disclosure and Barring Service and / or British Gymnastics depending on the nature of the concern
• All employees and volunteers complete regular safeguarding and child protection, and health, safety and welfare training
• All Club members adhere to all GGC and British Gymnastics policies and procedures
• All employees and volunteers are provided with opportunities every year to receive additional training and / or guidance in order to develop their understanding of child protection and safeguarding in particular the signs and indicators of abuse
• All staff and volunteers know how to respond to a disclosure and the procedures to be followed
• That all grievances and complaints are dealt with promptly.
• There is a designated Welfare Officer who complete mandatory British Gymnastics training
• That the role of the Welfare Officer and the importance of welfare is promoted and visible
• Details of the Welfare Officer are prominently displayed (noticeboards & the welfare page of our website) along with the process to follow to raise concerns
• That we always listen and work closely with parents/carers if we are concerned about a child though sometimes, we may not be able to discuss our concern (in accordance with safeguarding legislation and British Gymnastics Safeguarding & Protecting Children Policy)
• That at least two responsible adults are present at all training sessions or events
• That all participants and their parents are aware of the purpose of videoing, filming or photography during training or events
• That we benefit from the use of experienced safeguarding leads, who have received training through Local Children’s Boards including Child Protection, Prevent and Channel.
• That legislation and guidance is taken in to account when updating policies and procedures
• Our procedures will be reviewed annually.
Staff, volunteers and visitors will:
• Have access to a copy of, demonstrate their understanding of and be well versed in our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy; which will also form part of their induction and revisited every year through updates, monitoring and / or training
• Be subject to Safer Recruitment processes and checks, whether they are new staff, contractors, volunteers etc.
• Understand the role of the Welfare Officers and the procedures for reporting any concerns
• Have access and adhere to the GGC / British Gymnastics Code of Conduct
• Have a zero tolerance level of poor practice, bullying or any potential form of abuse
• Be alert to signs and indicators of possible safeguarding concerns
• Be in regular communication with the Welfare Team
• Record concerns/disclosures and give the record to the Welfare Officers
• Deal with a disclosure of abuse from a child in line with our procedures; informing the Welfare Officer immediately, and provide a written account as soon as possible.
If, a child is in immediate danger or is at risk of harm a referral should be made to children’s social care and/or the police immediately, notifying British Gymnastics. Anyone can make a referral. Where referrals are not made by the Welfare Officer, the Welfare Officer should be informed, as soon as possible, that a referral has been made.
Parents/carers are the most important people to keep their children safe. You should always:
• Feel confident to raise concerns about your child
• Talk to your child’s coach or Welfare Officer if you need help or support
• Read the policies about safety issues available on request and on the Club website
• Let us know if your child has a medical condition
• Let us know if you have any court orders, family matters relating to the safety of your child
• Let us know if there is a change in your circumstances such as a house move, a new contact number, a change of name, a change of parental responsibility
• Ensure we have details for two different emergency contacts
• Let your child’s coach if there is any specific person who we should not release your child to on collection following a training session
• Let your child’s coach know if your child is going to be absent and the reasons why, by filling out the form on the App
Welfare Officers:
• Will deal with all safeguarding concerns raised/allegations of abuse within the Club, investigating and / or refer all cases of suspected abuse to the appropriate agencies
• Be a visible presence within the Club on a regular basis to gymnasts, coaches and parents/carers
• Seek advice from the police and liaises with British Gymnastics if a crime has been committed
• Act as a source of support, advice and expertise to staff on matters of safety and safeguarding and when deciding appropriate action to take
• Receive regular training to be competent and confident in the role
• Maintain confidential records on disclosures and concerns
• Ensure each member of staff has access to and understands the Club’s Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy
• Be alert to the specific needs of our children, those with special educational needs and young carers
• Be able to keep detailed, accurate, secure written records of concerns and referrals
• Keep and monitor written records of concerns, even if there is no immediate need for action or referral
• Mark all child protection records as such and keep securely locked, and if these are stored electronically, that they are differently password protected from the pupils’ other files
• Encourage a culture of listening to children and taking account of their wishes and feelings, among all staff, in any measures the Club may put in place to protect them.
CODE OF CONDUCT
For Participants
We are fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all our members. The club believes it is important that members, coaches, administrators and parents associated with the club should, at all times, show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others. Therefore, members are encouraged to be open at all times and share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club with the nominated Club Welfare Officer - Mrs Bernice Webb
As a member of GymForce Gymnastics Club you are expected to abide by the following club rules:
All members must participate within the rules and respect coaches, judges and their decisions.
All members must respect opponents and fellow club members.
Members should keep to agreed timings for training and competitions or inform their coach, or if they are going to be late.
Members must wear suitable attire for training and events as agreed with the coach. Keep all long hair tied back. Remove all body jewellery.
Members must pay any fees for training or events promptly.
Members must not smoke, consume alcohol or take drugs of any kind whilst representing the club at competitions or other events.
Members should treat all equipment with respect.
Members must inform the head coach of any injuries or illness they may have before the warm-up begins.
Members should not eat or chew gum during a session.
Members must not use bad language.
Members should remain with coaches at the end of a session until collected by their parent or guardian.
For Parents/Guardians
Encourage your child to learn the rules and participate within them.
Discourage challenging / arguing with officials.
Publicly accept officials’ judgements.
Help your child to recognise good performance, not just results.
Set a good example by recognising good sportsmanship and applauding the good performances of all.
Never force your child to take part in sport.
Always ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the activity and has plenty to drink.
Keep the club informed if your child is ill or unable to attend sessions.
Endeavour to establish good communications with the club, coaches and officials for the benefit of all.
Share any concerns or complaints about any aspect of the club through the approved channels.
Use correct and proper language at all times.
Never punish or belittle a child for poor performance or making mistakes.
Always collect your child promptly at the end of a session.
Support your child’s involvement and help them to enjoy their sport.
GGC Coaches Code of Conduct
This Code sets out the standards in accordance with which GGC coaches operate. If you believe a breach of this Code has occurred please contact the Head Coach or the Welfare Officer who will investigate the matter.
GGC coaches will:-
Hold British Gymnastics coaching qualifications appropriate to the level of class being taught and valid current clear Criminal Records Bureau checks (please note that coaches are permitted to teach skills one level higher than the level of their qualification when under the supervision of a more highly qualified coach)
Treat all participants with dignity and respect
Act in accordance with the British Gymnastics policies on Child Protection, Equality and Health, safety and Welfare (all of which can be downloaded from the British Gymnastics website)
Give each participant the right to self-determination
Ensure each participant is set tasks appropriate to their age, development and the level of their ability
Attend punctually for scheduled classes (please ensure you arrive 10 mins prior to the start of your scheduled class.
Wear the correct attire at all times. Correct attire t-shits, tracksuit bottoms, leggings or knee length shorts.
Respond politely to any appropriately made queries or requests for information from parents or guardians or ensure that the query is passed on to an appropriate other person
Record all accidents or incidents of note in the Accident Book
Take appropriate action if he or she reasonably suspects that a participant or group of participants are being subjected to bullying in the gymnasium GymForce Gymnastics Club
Make a report to the Welfare Officer if he or she has reasonable concerns that any child may be the victim of abuse
Where participants are to be entered for competition, to ensure that they are entered at the most appropriate grade or level for their age, ability and personal desires and that they are able to safely perform the elements required
Promote the sport of gymnastics
Act and behave in a professional manner
GGC coaches will not :-
Chew gum whilst coaching.
Eat or drink within the training area’s of the gymnasium as it is strictly prohibited
Use mobile phones whilst coaching at any time as it is not permitted.
Smoke in or in the vicinity of the gymnasium or anywhere where they may be seen doing so by GGC gymnasts or parents
Swear or use other inappropriate language in the gymnasium
Intimidate, bully or harass any participant or group of participants
Discriminate against any participant, parent, visitor or other coach on the basis of their race, disability, sex, age, religious belief or sexual orientation
(Please note that particular treatment on the grounds of sex or age may be justified and at times in accordance with GGC’s policies - for example we currently do not have the facilities or coaches to teach competitive level boys and therefore boys who have the talent and desire to reach that level are referred to other clubs. Similarly, many of our selection policies will be based on selecting girls at an optimum age for them to develop into elite gymnasts.)
REFUNDS
REFUND POLICY AND CANCELLATION POLICY Refunds GymForce Gymnastics Club will make a refund when we have made an error in calculating any amount due. We will also make a refund where you have made an overpayment error, to the extent of the overpayment. Refunds will not be given for:
1 Any sessions missed due to holiday, illness, injury or retrospectively for sessions missed before notice of the decision to leave is notified.
2 Annual Club Memberships or Annual British Gymnastics Memberships
3 Cancelled or non attended taster session. Should you cancel a booked taster session within 48 hours of the start time we will endeavour to transfer the booking to another available time.
4 For change in circumstances and can no longer attend
5 GymForce Gymnastics will not make a refund where a payment has been made to a third party and that party does not or will not make a refund to the Club. The refund policy of the third party will determine eligibility for a refund. For example, British Gymnastics do not refund competition entry fees.
6 Any entry fees paid for events such as shows or competitions will not be refunded. We advise that you are sure you can attend before committing to an event.
7 Where the club have incurred additional costs based on your commitment to attend. This includes fees such as holiday activities.
8 On any kit orders that are made to order.
9 Deposit payments for parties.
10 Non deposit payments for parties cancelled within 2 weeks of the date of the party.
CANCELLING YOUR MEMBERSHIP
1 Membership at GymForce Gymnastics Club runs on a rolling basis until you notify us that you would like to cancel.
2 You may cancel your membership at any time by providing ‘30 days’ notice. One (1) further (future) monthly payments for training fees will be due from the date that you provide notice to cancel membership. During the notice period the class place will remain open for the member to attend and once this period has been served membership will be cancelled.
3 Notice to cancel membership must be provided in writing. This can be done in the form of an email to: bethan@gymforce.co.uk
4 You will receive written confirmation via email of your membership cancellation. This will notify you the date of your final payment and the final class date for the member. Please retain a copy of this for your records. Refunds and Cancellations Policy April 18
5 It is your responsibility to make sure that we are correctly notified about your request to cancel your membership at GymForce Gymnastics Club.
6 You may cancel your membership without serving the ‘notice period’ if you are diagnosed with a serious medical illness or suffer an injury which prevents you from participating in gymnastics. In these cases, cancellation without a notice period will only be granted if a doctor’s letter with a valid practice stamp is emailed to: bethan@gymforce.co.uk stating that the member must not participate in gymnastics.
7 The member is not entitled to enter the club once their membership has been cancelled.
8 Non-attendance in classes will not result in cancellation of your membership nor does it act as notice of cancellation. Cancellation of Direct Debit payments will not result in cancellation of your membership nor does it act as a notice of cancellation. As stated in condition 3 you must provide us with 30 days notice in writing if you wish to cancel your membership. Until such time that we receive your 30 day notice in writing you will remain liable for any unpaid monthly training payments.
9 You are not required to serve a notice period if you choose to cancel your membership during the first 30 days. The 30 days are calculated from your official start date. You are however still required to provide GymForce Gymnastics Club with written notification that you wish to cancel your membership. Providing your written notification is received by GymForce Gymnastics Club within the first 30 days you will not have to serve a 30 day notice period (see condition 3 on how to provide written notification).
10 Cancellation Of Membership By GymForce Gymnastics
11 The following circumstances may result in GymForce Gymnastics Club cancelling your membership either on a temporary or permanent basis.
12 A breach of the terms and conditions set out in this document.
13 A breach of the GymForce Gymnastics Club codes of conduct by a club member or their parent/guardian (see ‘Gymnast Code of Conduct’ and ‘Parents/Guardians Code of Conduct’ on the club website at www.gymforce.co.uk
14 The use of rude or abusive language, or threatening and violent behaviour towards another club member of member of staff either in person, over the phone or via email.
15 Causing a disturbance which effects other members and prevents them from enjoying their experience at GymForce Gymnastics Club.
16 If GymForce Gymnastics Club choose to end your membership as a result of the reasons stated in notes 12 to 15, you will forfeit any payments that you have made to date and you will not be eligible for any refund. Your membership will be cancelled with immediate effect.
17 If GymForce Gymnastics Club cancel your membership you will not be allowed to attend any classes after the cancellation date. You or the member will not be able to apply for membership at any of the GymForce Gymnastics Club venues in the future nor will you be allowed to enter any of the venues.
VIEWING POLICY
GymForce Gymnastics Club believes in an open policy and does not restrict viewing during classes.
Please ensure siblings and other children are supervised at all times. We also ask everyone to keep in mind that our Club viewing areas are open to all and we ask that you are mindful of others during conversations.
Should viewing become disruptive to training, the club or others, GymForce Gymnastics Club reserves the right to restrict viewing time.
If a parent/guardian or visitor continues to be disruptive, GymForce Gymnastics Club reserves the right to restrict their viewing access.
Parents/guardians and visitors are not to enter the gym areas for any reason. Do not approach or interrupt coaches during training periods. If you need to speak to your child’s coach briefly, please do so after or prior to the following class. In some cases, the coach may have to begin their next class right away and will be unable to speak to you at this time. If so, you can direct an email to bethan@gymforce.co.uk with any questions or concerns you may have or alternatively speak with the office.
In the interest of child protection GymForce Gymnastics Club has a strict no photography or video policy. Parents/guardians or visitors found to be taking photographs or videos may be asked to delete any images or video’s in their possession.
We ask that parents please ensure the areas are left clean and tidy.
Version updated 6th September 2021