Code of Conduct

Social Media

Comments made verbally, on our social media pages – Facebook, Twitter and/or website should not be abusive, offensive or derogatory, nor contain any inappropriate language. The moderators reserve the right to delete these types of postings and exclude the author.
The Club recognises that many runners make use of social media in a personal capacity. While they are not acting on behalf of the Club, members must be aware that they could risk damaging our reputation if these are not appropriate.
All members are therefore requested to ensure that they continue to recognise and respect this.

Members

All members must sign the relevant code of conduct for their role upon joining and at renewal. There are separate codes for runners, volunteers and coaches.
You must log into “My athletics portal” found at the top right of this page: England Athletics Official website
This is also where you can check your address, next of kin and any other personal details, and amend if necessary.

As a Club, members come together to participate and enjoy a common interest in running and athletics. The Code of Conduct acts as a reminder of the standards of behaviour which we can all share.

Members are expected to recognise that the organised activities of the club depend on the time and efforts of many volunteers who give a significant amount of their time for the benefit of the club.

Within the context of the club, members or a person acting on behalf of the club are expected to:

  • Behave with respect to other members of the club, other runners and members of the public.
  • Take responsibility for their own safety and not compromise the safety of others.
  • Behave in accordance with the Welfare Policy of the Club.
  • Respect and comply with the rules and regulations of competitions that they may participate in or assist with as an official.
  • Not publish defamatory material or behave in a manner that may bring the club into disrepute.
  • Follow the Complaints Procedure if at any time they have cause for concern for the welfare, safety or behaviour of others.
  • Runners should be age 16 or above to participate in training sessions on the road or cross country.

During training sessions

  • Inform your coach or run leader if you have any significant medical issue which may lead to problems during the run.
  • Be realistic when returning from illness or injury and let someone know if you’re struggling.
  • Respect pedestrians and other path/road users
  • Look after the other runners within your training group, making sure that they are not left on their own or inform your run leader.
  • When dark, members should wear fluorescent vests or other suitable clothing to ensure they can be clearly seen.
  • On training nights runners should not wear headphones, for safety and communication with others.
  • A head or chest torch should be worn on club nights between the months of October and April.

Inclusion Policy

The club is a welcoming environment and makes all reasonable adjustments to enable everybody to take part and promote change in attitudes and perceptions towards the characteristics protected under the Equality Act (2010).

The club will endeavour that everyone feels:

  • Welcome
  • Represented
  • Included in decision making
  • Able to participate
  • Safe and free from discrimination, bullying, harassment and vilification
  • Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking part.

Welfare Policy, Safeguarding & Complaints Procedure

Members are encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club with the club Welfare Officers or other members of the club committee.

Warrington Running Club (“WRC”) abide by the UKA, HCAF Child Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, Adult Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, the links to which can be found below

https://www.englandathletics.org/clubhub/resource/child-safeguarding-policy/?from=1

UK Athletics and HCAF Adult Safeguarding Policy (englandathletics.org)

If they have any immediate concerns for the welfare of anyone under 18 they should follow the guidance from Warrington Borough Council Safeguarding Board :- https://www.warrington.gov.uk/mars

If there is a cause for concern or complaint by a club member or a member of the public, concerning the behaviour, welfare or action of a club member or a person acting on behalf of the club then this must be brought to the attention of the Welfare Officer. in accordance with the Complaints Procedure.