Running a Club
Once you have set up a club, you need to work on keeping it going! It is advisable that your write a 5 year Development Plan, breaking this down into detailed 1 year Development Plans. This might include looking at applying for funding, sponsorship, increasing membership, entering competitions and starting junior teams. There are many other things that a club may want to consider:
Coaching Qualifications
Are there coaching qualifications available for your sport? If a person is running a team or section, do they have the appropriate skills to run/work with the athletes? It is also essential to organise Child Protection training for coaches working with young people.
Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Checks
The CRB system has been established to enable organisations working with young people or vulnerable adults to obtain a detailed background check on its volunteers or staff. CRB checks can be processed through the Cornwall Sports Partnership for a small fee. Some NGB’s are also able to process CRB checks. More information on CRB checks can be found at www.crb.gov.uk or on the help line 0870 909 0811.
Child Protection Policy
If a club has young members it is advisable that the club writes/adapts a Child Protection Policy. A sample policy and guidelines for your sport can be obtained from your NGB.
Equity Statement
Each NGB has an Equity Statement which clubs should look to adopt. Each club should then write its own Equity Statement about how it will implement this policy effectively.
Clubmark
This National initiative is likely to be endorsed by your NGB. Most NGB’s have written their own club accreditation programme which gives clubs a process to work through to help them to develop into good quality clubs. On completion of the club accreditation process, you will receive an award. The idea of this award is that clubs can demonstrate to potential members that they are safe, effective and child friendly.