Code of conduct for coaches and committee members

Last reviewed: 11th December 2021 - Chris Archer (Chair)

Policy documents

Club of Code for Coaches and Committee Members Last reviewed: 11th December 2021 - Chris Archer (Chair)

Whilst it is important for all adults to understand their responsibility with children, British Canoeing is concerned that specific advice is given concerning the behaviour of all coaches, staff, volunteers and other officials. This applies to anyone working in either a paid employed role or as a volunteer.

Coaches & Officials must respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person and treat everyone equally within the context of their sport.
Coaches & Officials must place the well being and safety of the child above the development of performance. They should follow all guidelines laid down by British Canoeing
Coaches & Officials must develop an appropriate working relationship with participants, especially children, based on mutual trust and respect. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward.
Coaches & Officials must encourage and guide participants to accept responsibility for their own behaviour.
Coaches & Officials should hold &/or strive to attain, up to date nationally recognised British Canoeing coaching qualifications. They should be signed off by the club as competent to carry out their role.
Coaches & Officials must ensure the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual.
Coaches & Officials should at the outset clarify with participants, and where appropriate their parents, exactly what is expected of them and what participants are entitled to expect from the coach.
Coaches & Officials should cooperate fully with other specialists e.g. other coaches, officials, sports scientists, doctors, and physiotherapists in the best interests of the participants.
Coaches & Officials should always promote the positive aspects of their sport e.g. fair play and never condone rule violations or the use of prohibited substances.
Coaches & Officials should not be under the influence of drink, drugs or any substance.
Coaches & Officials must consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance.
Coaches & Officials should be acutely aware of the power that a coach develops with participants and avoid any intimacy (sexual or otherwise).
Coaches & Officials should be acutely aware of situations with participants that could be construed as compromising and actions that others could perceive as being outside the coaching role.
Coaches & Officials should report any concerns within the area of Child Protection/Vulnerable Adults in confidence and without delay to the appropriate person.
Coaches & Officials should at no time make comment to the media. The British Canoeing Press Officer should be made aware of any media interest in relation to Child Protection/Vulnerable Adults.

In the event of an allegation of improper behaviour being made, the personal conduct and professional behaviour of the adult will be very important evidence. For child abuse to take place, particularly sexual abuse, the child and adult(s) will generally be alone and away from public view. Therefore the best practice is to avoid all situations in which behaviour cannot be observed.

Child Protection is about putting in place the best possible practices and procedures, this will protect not only the child but also you, the adult. If you have any comments on this guideline or require any further support or guidance relating to children and young people please contact the British Canoeing Child Protection Officer.