CLUB POLICIES
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HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE POLICY This is to confirm that Richard’s Trampoline Club has adopted the British Gymnastics Health, Safety and Welfare Policy June 2005. Club Manager’s Name: Kyrstin Fairweather Signed: K Fairweather Date: 4 May 2007 Back to club policies BRITISH GYMNASTICSHEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE POLICY FOREWORDPerkins Slade were appointed as Insurance Brokers and Risk Management Consultants to British Gymnastics in June 2000. We considered our first duty in respect of the latter was to advise the Association of the need to produce Generic Risk Management Guidelines for clubs, coaches and facility providers, advising them of their duty of care responsibilities and offering practical, sensible assistance. Naturally, we were thrilled to discover they had already done it! Gymnastics [including all British Gymnastics’ recognised disciplines] is “high risk”, involving many thousands of predominantly young people taking part in an extraordinary variety of activities on complex pieces of equipment, requiring a combination of strength, flexibility and courage. Young developing bodies are often “put to the test” and as such it is essential that all reasonable steps are taken, by everyone who takes part, to understand the nature of the risks involved and ensure suitable steps are taken to control them. This latest version of the British Gymnastics “Health, Safety and Welfare Policy” provides a superb benchmark for safe practice. Clearly a huge amount of time and energy has been spent, by a panel of acknowledged experts, in compiling it. However, the policy only has value if it is implemented fully by all British Gymnastics’ “constituents”, namely clubs, coaches, facility providers, volunteers, participants and parents. It must also be seen in the context, not of a standard for good practice, but as a minimum standard. Despite its high risk status the number of accidents each year, in relation to the millions of hours of participation in gymnastics, are relatively low. This is a testament to the very high safety standards already achieved throughout the sport. However, this must not be the excuse for complacency. Everyone involved in gymnastics must seek to continue to improve their safety standards and the Health, Safety and Welfare Policy is a massive step in the right direction. Richard Doubleday Director, Sport Perkins Slade Ltd Terminology The term Gymnastics is used as a generic term and includes all British Gymnastics recognised disciplines: Acrobatics, Aerobics, General (includes TeamGym, Gymnastics and Movement for People with Disabilities & Pre-school), Men’s Artistic, Rhythmic, Trampolining, Women’s Artistic. The term “safe”, as used in this document, means a situation where so far as is reasonably practicable, all reasonable steps have been taken to understand the nature of the risks involved and to ensure suitable steps have been taken to control the risks and keep them to a minimum. INTRODUCTIONBritish Gymnastics (BG) regards the health, safety and welfare of all members to be of paramount importance, which should not be compromised. To this end, it is BG policy to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, that procedures are in place to maintain a safe and healthy environment not only for our members but also for other persons who may be affected by the activities of BG and/or our affiliated clubs and organisations. The Health, Safety and Welfare Policy 2005 is an essential document for all individuals who are involved in running a gymnastics club and supersedes the previous Health, Safety and Welfare Policy 2001. The document provides clubs with the appropriate guidance to address health, safety and welfare issues in order to minimize risks involved in the sport. There are clearly inherent risks in gymnastics activities, due to the complex nature of the sport, however, these risks can be controlled and minimised by adherence to best practice. The Policy sets out good practice principles that if followed, will help reduce the risks of running a gymnastics club or organisation and most importantly reduce the risks associated with participation. In addition, following these principles will contribute to BG’s aim of reducing the number of claims made against the BG insurance policy, which covers all affiliated members and organisations. Insurance In today’s culture of blame and litigation, it is essential that clubs and coaches hold appropriate levels of insurance cover. Membership of British Gymnastics incorporates a comprehensive insurance cover and all registered members and clubs are provided with cover that pays legal costs and damages in respect of claims against the insured while involved in gymnastics activity in an environment that is under the control or influence of BG. “An environment that is under the control or influence of BG” includes any facilities, coaching, training, competitions, events or courses, which are under the governance or management of: • An Affiliated home country or region • A BG Registered Club • A Local Education Authority i.e. School/College/University • A Health Authority i.e. Hospital/Rehabilitation Centre/Primary Care Trust • A Public Body – Central Council for Physical Recreation (CCPR) /Sports Council etc • A Local Authority i.e. County Council/District Council/City Council • A Leisure Centre run by a Local Authority • A Private Leisure Centre registered with BG under their Leisure Centre Scheme. IMPORTANT NOTE: Coaches working in any facility that is not under the governance of BG or the organisations listed above, for example: unregistered Leisure Centres, Church Halls, Youth Clubs, Private Unregistered Clubs are not covered by their BG insurance. Coaches who hire facilities from any of the organisations listed above (in bullets) but are not directly under their governance must register all participants with BG or seek alternative insurance cover. Any member or affiliated organisation that is found to be blatantly disregarding the BG Policy may well find that they are not covered in the event of a claim. Responsibilities It is important to recognise that this Health, Safety and Welfare policy does not remove the responsibility for clubs, officials and coaches to have and implement appropriate policies and procedures, relating to the activities they provide. However, the application of some safety measures will depend on whether your club owns, leases or hires their facility and whether the club has any employees. Hired Facilities There are many different types of clubs with a variety of structures using facilities that range from hired local authority centres and schools, to privately owned centres. There are some clubs that have paid employees and others that are run entirely by volunteers. As a club, you are responsible for the health and safety of your members and those who access the services provided by the club. If you hire a gym from a Local Authority (LA), you will be subject to the Local Authorities Health and Safety policy. The LA will have their own Health and Safety procedures in place which will cover the facility, emergency procedures, risk assessments and so on. All coaches and officials will need to acquaint themselves with these procedures and arrangements. The club should confirm that the above procedures and risk assessments have been undertaken by the Local Authority. If you hire a facility from another voluntary organisation, for example another sports club, they may not have well developed procedures for Health and Safety. Your club would therefore need to introduce their own procedures. Owned Or Leased Facilities If your club owns or leases a facility, you must take reasonable steps to ensure the facility and equipment are safe. Affiliated Organisations With Employees If an organisation is a source of work for someone (i.e. an individual makes their living as a gym coach) or if the organisation has employees, it will be subject to the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the associated health and safety legislation. The relevant Local Authority Leisure Department or equivalent health and safety provider or the Health and Safety Executive can advise on these matters. The club must ensure that all emergency procedures and safety policies are in place, which may include procedures above and beyond those outlined in this policy. An organisation with five or more employees has further duties to comply with in relation to Health and Safety legislation. These include the recording of all significant findings of risk assessments and arrangements for health and safety measures, as well as drawing up a health and safety policy and ensuring all employees are well aware of all procedures. Duty Of Care Irrespective of whether an organisation has employees or not, the club and individuals who run it and operate within it have a legal ‘Duty of Care’ to the members. It is good practice to adopt similar measures for health, safety and welfare and to ensure the risks involved are properly understood and controlled. BG strongly recommends that clubs adopt the BG policy as a minimum. As a club you have a responsibility for the safety and welfare of gymnasts, coaches, volunteers, officials and any visitors to your club. This responsibility applies to all clubs, regardless of their size or structure. There is a legal responsibility to ensure that participants are protected against harm or danger whilst taking part in gymnastics or related activities. This is legally termed the ‘Duty of Care’. This becomes particularly relevant when dealing with children. In certain circumstances when working with children, an adult who carries out a supervisory role would take on certain responsibilities while the child was in their care. The legal terminology for the relationship is that the person would be 'in loco-parentis'. The expected standard for behaviour would be based on reasonableness. In this circumstance the test would be: How would a reasonable parent behave? In other circumstances, due to the extra knowledge a coach or other trained individual may have, the test of reasonable behaviour would be how a reasonable coach or trained individual would behave. The Duty of Care would start from the time a child arrives at a club or event, until the child is returned to their parent or guardian. The ‘Duty of Care’ also extends to adults. e.g. if an accident occurred whilst a volunteer was helping move equipment, the club (or its members) may be liable. In order to establish liability, it would have to be proved that a club failed in its ‘Duty of Care’ to take reasonable care for that person. The ‘Duty of Care’ extends over a number of areas – • The provision of a safe environment at all times including safe apparatus • Safe development of the individual through appropriate physical and psychological preparation and progressive skill development • Provision of suitable first aid support and emergency procedures • Exercising reasonable care at all times • Compliance with child protection and welfare policy and procedures Those with a managerial responsibility must ensure that policies and procedures are in place and implemented to ensure that the ‘Duty of Care’ is met, although it is impossible to establish detailed guidelines for every aspect of every situation that may arise. However, BG Policy, training courses and resource materials are designed to provide the prudent club, coach, judge, official and volunteer with a sufficient basis of knowledge and guidance to enable them to make informed judgements regarding acceptable standards of health, safety and welfare. 1.0 POLICY 1.1 BG ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES BG strives to ensure the Health, Safety and Welfare of everyone involved in the sport. We endeavour to promote the highest standards in all areas and have outlined below some of our key mission statements that impact on the Health, Safety and Welfare Policy 2005. These include: - § Developing a UK wide vision, strategic plans and policies in partnership with key stakeholders. § Ensuring that quality is consistent through licensing and development, monitoring and enforcement of rules at UK level. § Developing and controlling coaching/coach education and judging/judge education programmes and training for other officials and volunteers within the sport. § Providing information and technical expertise. § Disseminating best practice and benchmarking across the UK. § Developing and monitoring policies and principles for child protection, equity, health and safety, ethics and others. § Delivery of World Class programmes and UK elite programmes i.e. those outside of World Class Performance. § Providing cost effective services that would not be economical at a Regional or home country level in consultation with home countries. § UK wide information systems and central database management. § Creation of UK-wide programmes for club development. In achieving these mission statements, BG and each of the Gymnastics Governing Bodies in the UK, agrees to the following key underlying core values governing gymnastics activity: - § Putting members first. § Investing in and maximising the potential of members, staff and volunteers. § Applying the principles of equity. § Recognising and discharging all duties of care including Health, Safety and Welfare. § Embracing the principles of Continuous Improvement. § Embracing the principles of Best Value. (Challenge, Consult, Compare, Compete) § Applying the principles of a drug free sport. § Applying the principles of Long Term Athlete Development. (LTAD) The above describes what BG considers to be accepted good practice and values, which gymnastic providers should adopt at all times. 1.2 GUIDANCE & LEGISLATION The policy and procedures reflect best practice guidance and legislation. The following are the main pieces of legislation that are core to all procedures within the Health, Safety and Welfare policy 2005: - The Children Act 1989 & 2004 (England and Wales only) The Children (NI) Order 1995 (Northern Ireland) The Children (Scotland) Act 1995 All relevant legislation for recruitment and selection of volunteers All relevant anti-discrimination legislation Human Rights Act 1998 The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child The Data Protection Act 1994 & 1998 Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (and its subordinate legislation) OTHER RELEVANT BG POLICY AND GUIDANCE The following documents should be read and followed in conjunction with the Health, Safety and Welfare Policy 2005 – BG Member’s Handbook: The Handbook contains all the Association Rules, Codes of Ethics and Conduct, Disciplinary and Appeals Procedures and the Articles of Association Child Protection Policy 2004 Anti-doping Policy 2005 Equality Policy (to be revised in 2006) Further guidance can be found within other BG publications, such as Coaching Manuals and Child Protection and Club Management Resources. Members who are also members of other affiliated home countries and Regions should also refer to the Articles of Association and Rules of these Organisations. 1.3 ACTIONS TAKEN BY BG § BG has established an Ethics and Welfare Committee, which is a sub-committee of the Board. The Committee is responsible for advising the Board and recommending Policies on issues of Health, Safety & Welfare, Child Protection, Ethics, Sports Equity and Equality, Anti-Doping, GymMark and any related areas within British Gymnastics. The Committee is also responsible for the monitoring and evaluation of all policies within its remit. § BG has an Ethics and Welfare Manager who supports the work of the Ethics and Welfare Committee. § BG has a designated Health and Safety Adviser who provides information and advice, carries out inspections and helps in ensuring that we meet our legal duties. § BG has introduced GymMark, a Gymnastics club accreditation scheme that assists clubs to comply with the requirements of the British Gymnastics’ Policies and Procedures and helps to facilitate the provision of a safe, effective and child-friendly gymnastics environment. § BG has a complaints and disciplinary procedure, which is followed in the event of any serious breaches of BG Policy and Procedures. § BG maintains confidential records of all complaints, concerns and sanctions against clubs and members in line with data protection legislation. § BG has reviewed the Health, Safety and Welfare Policy, initially implemented in 2001, and is committed to ensure that the reviewed policy is widely available. § Health, Safety and Welfare issues are included within BG education programmes. § Best Practice is extensively promoted, and coaches/officials/clubs and affiliated organisations are encouraged to adopt the British Gymnastics Policy for Health, Safety and Welfare. § BG has introduced a Club Management Module that includes relevant information on the, implementation of the Health, Safety and Welfare Policy. 1.4 MONITORING PROCEDURES The Health, Safety and Welfare policy and procedures will be annually monitored and a full policy review will take place tri-annually. The following situations may also evoke a review of the policy: - § As a result of any changes in legislation or guidance. § As a result of any changes in governance of the sport. § As a result of any changes in the nature or size of British Gymnastics. § Following a procedural review as a result of a significant case. 1.5 ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN BY AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS AND MEMBERS Although affiliated organisations may have policies and procedures in place, it is essential that these policies, as a minimum, comply with the standards adopted by British Gymnastics. The right to take part in gymnastics activities in a safe environment, and stay free from harm, applies to everyone and all members must take reasonable steps to ensure they are fully aware and compliant with the relevant aspects of the policy. All affiliated organisations must: - § Adopt and implement the BG policy guidelines or ensure existing policies are compliant with BG policy and UK legislation. § Determine the responsibilities of the organisation in respect of any facilities and employees. § Plan the work of the organisation to minimise all risks in respect of Health, Safety and Welfare. § Ensure the responsibilities for health, safety and welfare are designated to individuals with the necessary skills and experience. § Ensure there are adequate training opportunities for staff, coaches, officials and other volunteers. § Ensure reporting procedures are followed for any accidents or incidents and inform BG of any serious allegations or concerns of poor practice. All members must: - § Take reasonable care of their own health, safety and welfare and that of others who may be affected by his/her acts or omissions. § Co-operate with BG, your home country or Regional affiliated organisation and your club on issues relating to health, safety and welfare. § Ensure reporting procedures are followed for any accidents or incidents and inform BG of any serious allegations or concerns of poor practice. 2.0 FOUNDATION OF GOOD PRACTICE There are inherent risks in the sport of gymnastics but the majority can be controlled and kept to a minimum through the adoption and implementation of accepted best coaching practices. Unnecessary risks should be removed by ensuring that safe practices are followed and that a safe environment is provided at all times. 2.1 SAFETY AND RESPONSIBILITY IN GYMNASTICS Everyone in coaching owes a duty of care to those being coached. A general duty of care is owed to the participants to exercise reasonable care for their safety both in training and competition. The criteria for creating a safe environment includes: - § The health and safety of each participant is paramount. This includes ensuring so far as is reasonably practicable that the place in which the gymnastics activity, training or coaching takes place, and the equipment and facilities used, are safe. § The coach must have the competence and experience for the role he or she is performing. § The coach must be fully qualified to do that which he or she is undertaking. § The coach must carry out his or her coaching duties with reasonable skill and care and in a reasonable, prudent and professional manner in accordance with the British Gymnastics and sports coach UK (scUK) codes of Ethics and Conduct. § Meticulous physical and mental preparation of the participant appropriate to the level of participation. § Suitable, well maintained apparatus and adequate facilities in an appropriately safe environment. § Best coaching practices are employed at all times. 2.2 THE PRUDENT AND CARING COACH The prudent and caring coach will ensure that the following principles are implemented and continually upheld: - § A safe environment is provided at all times. § Clear and adequate instructions are given prior to commencing an activity. § Coaching methods and procedures are continually assessed for the safety of both performer and coach. § Only competent and suitably trained and qualified persons supervise or coach an activity. § The clothing and special equipment (e.g. hand-guards) to be worn by the participants must be suitable, not loose fitting, and in good order. § The health status of each participant should be known before commencing a training session or competition. If a coach knows of any health reason, medical condition or injury which might affect a participant’s ability to train or compete, or which might adversely affect his or her health if he or she were to train or compete, appropriate medical advice should be obtained before the participant undertakes any training activity or competes. If a medical advisor advises that the participant should not train or compete, the participant should not do so until a medical advisor has advised that the participant may do so. § Medical advice should be sought in case of injury and only persons who are qualified should administer first aid. § An accurate record of injuries and actions should be maintained and kept up to date. § Medical approval should be sought following a debilitating injury before permitting a participant to recommence training or competition. § Coaches must be immediately accessible and never leave the premises while a session is in progress. § Always ensure that a minimum of two responsible adults are present during training sessions. One of the adults must be an appropriately qualified coach, the second adult must not be one of the participating gymnasts. 2.3 COACHING QUALIFICATION CRITERIA Gymnastic activities involve an inherent risk and in the desire to protect the participants and ensure their safety and well being, British Gymnastics requires the following criteria to be implemented: - § The minimum qualification for a coach wishing to operate independently, or take responsibility for a club, is a BG Club Coach level qualification in the disciplines being offered. § The minimum qualification required to take responsibility for a class is a British Gymnastics Coach level qualification. The Coach must however work under the direction of a more highly qualified coach. § Qualified Assistant Coaches may work under the direct supervision of a qualified British Gymnastics Coach (or higher) but must not operate unsupervised. § Coaches and Teachers should only work in the sports specific areas in which they are qualified and only to the level to which they are qualified. § It is a BG requirement that the coach designing and directing the programme holds a minimum of Club Coach level qualification in the specific disciplines being offered. § For coaching at higher levels of performance, the coach must hold a level of qualification appropriate to the level of performance to be undertaken in that particular discipline of the sport. § British Gymnastics has a duty to ensure that coaches are safe to undertake the coaching of participants within their knowledge and competency according to current best practice. It is therefore required that Coaches should update or revalidate their Coaching Qualification to maintain a degree of currency in their coaching practices. BG will determine the frequency and method of revalidation or qualification update. § British Gymnastics will require all coaches at Level 2 (Coach) qualifications and above to complete a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) disclosure, which will be considered prior to accreditation of a coaching award. Although a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an individual from holding a BG qualification, British Gymnastics will not award qualifications to candidates who are considered unsuitable to work in a voluntary or paid capacity with children or vulnerable adults. § In a competition or other BG event, the coach must possess a current qualification according to the following criteria: - i) A coach who holds a Coach level qualification may be present on the arena and be responsible for activities to the level of the qualification. ii) At other levels, the coach must hold a minimum of Club Coach qualification, but must hold a level of qualification appropriate to the level of performance of the participant in the particular discipline. iii) A less qualified coach may assist a more highly qualified coach but only in those areas and to the level to which they are qualified. 2.4 GYMNAST TO COACH/TEACHER RATIOS There are a number of diverse factors to consider when making recommendations with regard to the ratio of participants to coach/teacher in Gymnastics and Trampolining activities. These factors might include: the age and stage of development of the participants, the level and type of activity, the experience of the participants and coach and the type of facility and equipment available. However, the coach in charge must always make an assessment (i.e. a risk assessment) of each situation and must determine a ratio of participants to coach/es that is reasonable, safe and effective. Please note that there should always be at least two responsible adults in the gymnasium. To ensure that a safe and effective coaching/teaching situation is maintained, British Gymnastics recommends the following reasonable ratio of participants to coach/teacher: - Pre-School Classes For independent child classes, a ratio of eight participants to one coach is recommended. This can be increased proportionally to the number of qualified assistant coaches, i.e. 8 per additional directly supervised assistant coach. For classes where the parent, guardian or carer is participating with the child, a maximum ratio of 20 children to one coach is recommended. Gymnastics Classes Suitably qualified British Gymnastics coaches or teachers must supervise all gymnastics activities. Coaches must be qualified to the level of performance of the participants in the specific discipline of the sport. The recommended maximum number of participants to one apparatus/station is 8 participants. Where more than one apparatus/station is to be supervised, the coach in charge must carefully assess the following: - a) The age, stage of development, experience, varying ability and number and discipline of the participants. b) The coaches’ own qualifications and experience. c) Their ability to observe, advise, support and respond to the difficulties of anyone in the gymnastics area. d) The level and type of activity and suitability of the apparatus arrangements. Normally, one coach would not be expected to supervise more than 16 gymnasts, without other suitably qualified coaches being in attendance. However, where a directly supervised and qualified Assistant Coach is used, in addition to the supervising coach, each additional Assistant Coach may supervise a maximum of 8 participants (i.e. qualified lead coach = 16 gymnasts plus 8 gymnasts with AC = 24 in total). Trampolinist to Coach Ratios All trampolining activities must be supervised by suitably qualified British Gymnastics coaches or teachers. It is incumbent upon the coach in charge to ensure that trained spotters of suitable size are provided at each side not protected by alternative safety measures such as end decks. The recommended maximum number of participants to one trampoline is 8 participants. Where more than one trampoline is to be supervised, the coach in charge must carefully assess the following: - § The age, stage of development, experience, varying ability and number and discipline of the participants. § The coaches’ own qualifications and experience. § Their ability to observe, advise, support and respond to the difficulties of anyone in the trampoline area. Normally, one coach would not be expected to supervise more than 16 recreational trampolinists, without other suitably qualified coaches being in attendance. The coach in charge must also ensure that the person/s sliding in the “push in mat”, if not a qualified coach, is trained, experienced, of sufficient maturity and familiar with the performer. Coaching People with a Disability When working with people with disabilities, a competent assessment of the risk to the individual and other participants must be made when determining the ratio of gymnasts to coach. Depending on the nature of the disability, one-to-one supervision may be necessary. For further information on Disability issues please refer to the BG guidance on the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. General Comment When groups are warming up, cooling down or working on low risk activities on a floor area, the ratio may be increased within the bounds of safety. 2.5 AGE RELATED GUIDELINES i) Age and Level of Participation: It is impossible to legislate for every conceivable situation in gymnastics, since there are many variables to consider. However this statement provides some guidelines, which British Gymnastics considers appropriate to the safe participation and long term development of the gymnasts. Factors that influence the guidelines include: the chronological age of the child, physical and psychological age characteristics, gender and stage of development of the participant. Consideration must also be given to the type of activity, suitability of the facility, and the needs and desires of the participants. The levels of ability and aspirations of the participants should be of paramount importance when the level of participation is determined. It is possible to commence gymnastics participation at any stage, but the possible lack of flexibility, strength ability and spatial awareness may be debilitating factors with regard to high level performance. In addition, participants should only undertake gymnastics at a level at which it is safe for them to participate. It is generally recognised that it takes eight to twelve years to successfully prepare an international gymnast and that it is best to commence a sport specific gymnastics programme at an early age although this may depend on the discipline, some not requiring such early specialisation as others. Commencement at an early age also enables a good work ethic and appropriate attitude to be formulated to prepare the young participant for future development. Stage 1: Fundamentals (Approximate ages 8 weeks – 8 years) Fundamentals is the first stage of development and is designed to encourage young people to become physically active and to develop the fundamental movement skills they need whether they choose to take part in gymnastics, other sports or pursue an active lifestyle. The Fundamental Movement Ideas for Early Years Programmes (Fun4Baby, Adult and Child and Independent Child) provide structured programmes of play for babies and children from 8 weeks through to school age. The Fundamental Movement Ideas for Foundation Years Programmes (Foundation Skills and Core Skills) continue to progressively develop Fundamental Movement Skills. The Foundation Skills stage should begin to introduce the foundations for gymnastics skills including an emphasis on body management and the acquisition of key body shapes. At this stage, children should be continuing to gain a rounded development of other important non-gymnastics specific fundamentals (possibly through participation in other sports, multi-skill sessions or through their gymnastic classes). The Core Skills stage focuses on the development of core gymnastic skills and the physical preparation required to complete these skills. The development of fundamental movement skills should continue through the core skills stage but attention will increasingly focus on developing core gymnastics skills, parts of skills and developing the physical attributes (preparing the body) in a fun, enjoyable and challenging environment. The British Gymnastics Fundamental Movement Ideas programme has been designed specifically for this purpose and is recommended to all providers in this area of development. Participants in the Fundamental programmes will normally train between 1 to 4 hours per week, depending upon their stage of development. However, slightly more hours may be appropriate in the Core Skills Stage within the early specialization disciplines. Stage 2: Learning to Train: (Approximate ages 7 – 9 years) This area of basic specialisation involves the learning of multilateral physical preparation and basic skill/element acquisition, leading to low level competition. Up to 10 hours training per week is usual however, slightly more hours may be appropriate within the early specialisation disciplines. Stage 3: Training to Train: (Approximate ages 10 – 13 years) This stage involves specialised physical preparation, the acquisition of more advanced core skills and participation in intermediate – espoir level competitions, usually training up to 15 hours per week is usual, however, slightly more hours may be appropriate within the early specialisation disciplines. Stage 4: Training to Compete: (Approximate ages 14 – 15 years) The key areas are specific physical preparation, acquisition of advanced skills/elements and participation in junior level competitions. Normally training up to 20 hours per week. Stage 5: Training to Win: (Approximate age 16+ years) Advanced physical preparation, attainment of high performance levels of complex skills and participation in senior level competitions. Normally training up to 25 hours per week. Stage 6: Retainment: (Senior/mature gymnasts) At this stage, the gymnast maintains the level of physical preparedness, refined skills and routines and consolidated performance at high performance level. The gymnast may also seek to develop other skills such as coaching, judging or officiating as an extension to their career. Normally training up to 25 hours per week. When planning the training programme and number of training hours, a coach must pay particular regard to the maturation age, stage of development of each individual and also the intensity and variety of activity. This is particularly relevant where there are mixed aged partnerships or groups. The guidelines above are recommended training hours for Artistic Gymnastics but these will vary considerably in respect of the other gymnastics disciplines. They are likely to be substantially lower for disciplines where there are fewer apparatus in that discipline eg. trampoline or aerobic gymnastics. The sequence of stages within the LTAD Pathway should be the same for all participants. However, how far a gymnast progresses through the pathway and the ages associated with these stages will vary according to whether the gymnast chooses to follow a recreational pathway, a competitive non-elite pathway or a competitive elite pathway. Children under 8 years of age. Where children under the age of eight years are involved in activities of duration of 2 or more hours, the provider may be required to register with the Local Authority Social Services. Although the legislation that regulates the care of children under eight years is not normally applied to sport, British Gymnastics recommends that clubs with classes for children within this age group should notify the Local Authority of their existence to avoid any uncertainty on the issue. British Gymnastics recommends that sessions for children under the age of 8 years should not exceed 2 hours and classes for pre-school children should not be longer that 45 minutes. Age and Competition: Competition is an integral part of gymnastics and the performance-orientated gymnast must gain experience in competition over a period of time. However, to protect the child, it is BG policy that for an event that leads to a National or UK final, the gymnast must attain the minimum age of 9 years in the calendar year in which the event is held. It is recognised that children may wish to enter events when they are below the age of 9 years. BG therefore recommends that for events that lead to a County or Regional title, the child should attain the minimum age of 8 years in the calendar year in which this event is held. Participation in other events should be at the discretion of the coach, but taking due consideration of the age and maturation stage of development of the child, with the welfare of the child being the primary factor. It is recognised that it is a natural trait for children to want to challenge themselves and others, and the British Gymnastics proficiency reward schemes, grades and club/class competitions can be utilised to meet this need. The world governing body for gymnastics, the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG) has ruled that a gymnast must be aged at least 16 in the year of competition in order to compete at full senior international level. This action was designed to discourage the accelerated development of younger talented gymnasts and thereby extend the competitive career of the gymnast. This is more relevant to female gymnasts, since male gymnasts are not likely to achieve maturation strength until around 18 years and are therefore unlikely to compete at senior level at a young age. In order that the gymnast gains the valuable knowledge and experience of competition, it is recommended that the following strategy for the number of competitions per year for each stage of development be adopted: (Approx age) Competitions/year Stage 2: 7 - 9 yrs 4 - 6 competitions Stage 3: 10 - 13 yrs 6 - 8 competitions Stage 4: 14 - 15 yrs 8 - 10 competitions Stage 5: 16+ years 10 - 15 competitions This volume of competition is only appropriate if the gymnasts are adequately prepared, free from injury (including micro-trauma) and competent at performing their routines. However, the prudent coach will plan the training and event programme according to the maturation age, the experience and needs of the individual as well as the level or intensity of the event. It is critical to ensure that gymnasts have an appropriate balance between training and competition to provide adequate time for skill development and recovery. The yearly competition programme must be planned appropriately to allow this to happen. 2.6 PERSONAL CLOTHING: DRESS The Code of Dress for gymnastics activities is designed to safeguard the participants and coaches. The following points should be adhered to during training and events: - § Ensure that the gymnasts and coaches wear appropriate clothing, which does not impede the freedom of movement required by the activity and is not too loose as to constitute a hazard. § The wearing of clothing with buckles or clasps must be discouraged. § Raised adornments on gymnastics clothing are dangerous and are prohibited. § Long hair may become a hazard and it should be tied back to avoid accidents. § Participants should work in bare feet or gymnastics slippers. § Do not permit the wearing of socks without gymnastics footwear on polished or slippery surfaces. § When participating on a trampoline, ensure that socks or suitable gymnastics footwear (not training shoes) are worn. § Long fingernails present a risk to the gymnast and coach. The coach is responsible for ensuring the length of fingernails is compatible with the activity. § Coaches and gymnasts should be aware of the risks associated with wearing spectacles and minimize the risks by wearing flexible frames or contact lens or ensuring glasses are secure. NB: The Code of Dress for participants at a BG Competition will be that stated by the FIG in the sport specific code. Any concessions or variance from this code will be published in the sport specific competition handbook. Coaches at events: Coaches who are active in the event arena should dress smartly according to the following: - § Tracksuits, polo shirts or sweatshirts with long trousers, socks and training shoes or gym slippers, OR § Where coaches are not physically active in the event arena, they should dress smartly according to the traditions of the particular discipline. Sensitivity to religious beliefs should be afforded with regard to the dress code but safety is paramount and any clothing that is considered by the coach to be a safety hazard should be changed or participation may be prohibited. Any concessions on dress must be within the bounds of reasonable safety. The element of risk should be explained to the coach/participant (parent or guardian) and every attempt to control the risk should be adopted. 2.7 BODY PIERCING AND ADORNMENTS British Gymnastics believes that jewellery and adornments worn in body piercing are inappropriate for safe practice in gymnastics. A person with body adornments or jewellery must inform the coach and also remove the relevant items to reduce the risk of injury to the participant, the coach and others. Coaches must ensure that risks associated with jewels and raised adornments on leotards are eliminated. The policy applies to all participants and coaches in training and in events at home and abroad. Coaches wearing rings that cannot be removedIt is acknowledged that in some circumstances, it may be impossible to remove a ring. Should this be the case, the ring must be sufficiently covered with protective tape in order to eliminate any risk. Failure to conform will prohibit the individual’s participation on the grounds of reasonable safety and may render the individual’s insurance invalid should an accident result directly from non-compliance. 2.8 DISCIPLINE A good standard of behaviour and code of conduct within the gymnasium will greatly reduce the risk of injury and enhance concentration and the work ethic. The standards should be applied equally to all participants. Full codes of ethics and conduct are contained within the BG Membership handbook. 3.0 SAFETY 3.1 SAFETY IN COACHING It is essential that appropriate precautions are taken during activities to ensure that optimal levels of safety are maintained at all times. Particular consideration must be given to the following: - Preparation of the Gymnast The physical and psychological preparation of the participant is of prime importance to facilitate the safe learning of skills or movements. Appropriate strength, flexibility and body awareness together with psychological factors must be developed prior to teaching a skill. Progressive Learning The use of carefully selected progressive sub-skills, which relate to the complete skill, is recommended good practice and time for consolidation in performance should be allocated. Competent Spotting/Supporting “Supporting” and “Spotting” are integral with the safe learning of gymnastic skills and involve the techniques of observation and handling, to ensure the safe performance of the skill. Recommended safe practices as taught on BG coaching courses should be used. Coaches must be continually alert to the risks encountered where an inferior performance occurs and be ready to provide emergency support. Suitable Apparatus Carefully erect and check the suitability of the apparatus for height, width and stability. Ensure that a safe and appropriate landing surface is provided at all times in accordance with the level of activity and the ability and experience of the participant. Frequently conduct a risk assessment of the environment to ensure that it remains safe. Safe Landings Correct landing techniques and methods of falling safely should be effectively taught and encouraged at all times. Flexibility/Stretching Exercises British Gymnastics has received a number of enquiries from concerned parents, regarding the techniques and types of exercise that BG promotes as correct practice. Concerns have been expressed about the coaches using their full body weight or excessive force during flexibility training. There are also concerns about the close proximity of the coach’s body and hands to sensitive areas on the gymnast’s body. Coaches are encouraged to be mindful of these factors and to protect themselves against allegations of poor practice and should heed the following good practice guidelines: - § Use slow, progressive and prolonged stretching exercises, within the “discomfort zone”, rather than what might be considered to be excessive force. § Avoid exercises that place the coaches and gymnasts body in “close proximity” and might be seen as unnecessary by the less-informed parent or observer. § Be sensitive to how the exercise might be perceived by the parents and children. § Consider holding a parents’ forum to explain the flexibility training techniques, so that the parent is more aware and therefore less likely to misinterpret the techniques being used. § Use partner exercises with more experienced gymnasts where possible. Use of Weight Training in Gymnastics British Gymnastics does not recommend the use of Olympic weight lifting “free weight” type training programmes or exercises with gymnasts, until the post pubertal stage of development. British Gymnastics recommends that all physical preparation should be progressive and where possible, use the gymnast’s own body mass as the resistance. This is particularly relevant in early childhood and periods of adolescent growth. Single weight discs, ankle, wrist and waist belts can be used to increase the resistance but this will depend upon the age and stage of maturation of the gymnasts. The use of free weights (bar and weight discs) may be introduced with suitably prepared gymnasts once they have reached the post puberty stage of development. Appropriate types of weight training exercise are incorporated into the BG Coaching qualification courses where this is relevant to the particular discipline. BG coaches are therefore qualified to deploy these exercises within the training programme. Overuse and Growth Related Injuries Due to the complex nature of the sport and the need for frequent, repetitive practice of skills or movements, participants in gymnastics are susceptible to overuse injuries. This is particularly relevant during the pubescent growth spurt periods. Coaches must be conscious of the need for meticulous physical preparation, a varied programme, use of appropriate techniques and a suitable environment to reduce the risk of overuse related injuries. Coaches must be continually vigilant in observing the growth pattern of young participants and sensitive to signs of soreness or pain particularly in growth plate areas. Advice should be sought from a qualified physiotherapist or medical practitioner. Excessively repetitive exercises, poor facilities or bad technique may lead to “overuse injuries”. Coaches must take the necessary precautions to reduce the possibility of this type of injury by varying the programme, ensuring correct techniques are taught, adequate fitness is developed and suitable apparatus is used. The coach must take into consideration the age, stage of maturation and psychological and emotional state of the performer with regard to the demands of the training programme. Fatigue The principle of “overloading” by gradually increasing the physical demands of training is an accepted process for improving fitness, but a coach must be conscious of the onset of fatigue during training as this may have a deleterious effect on performance and may increase the risk of injury. Personal Training Kit It is recommended that coaches frequently inspect gymnasts’ personal equipment. It is particularly important to check that the handguards do not show signs of deterioration, such as stretching or wear. 3.2 RISK ASSESSMENT Risk assessment is a process that identifies potential hazards in an activity, assesses the level of risk and then puts in place safe practices to control that risk. In other words, recognising anything that could realistically cause harm and taking all reasonable steps to reduce the likelihood of harm occurring. While Health and Safety legislation places a requirement on all employers and self-employed people to carry out the relevant risk assessments, BG holds that it is good practice for all clubs to complete risk assessments and keep a record of any findings and remedial action. If a club becomes involved in any civil liability action, it will help to have these records available. Anyone who carries out a risk assessment for gymnastics must have a comprehensive knowledge of the type of activity and coaching processes that occur, in addition to an understanding of health and safety matters. Thus it is essential that gymnastics clubs do not rely solely on a risk assessment carried out by a Local Authority or other facility operator, but also ensure that those with the relevant gymnastics knowledge are engaged in this process. For Gymnastics coaches this process of identifying the potential hazards, judging the level of risk and putting in safe practices to control the risk is one they are routinely familiar with in the coaching process and takes place throughout training without the necessity to make a written record. Risk assessments can be carried out in a wide variety of circumstances or particular tasks: for example lifting a heavy piece of equipment, checking a facility, performing a gymnastics skill, wearing a piece of clothing or jewellery, running an event or even implementation of the club rules and procedures. Risk assessments should be carried out alongside the BG Facility and Apparatus Health and Safety checklists found in Section 8 of this document. The Health and Safety Executive has produced a five-step guide to risk assessment and have many other publications that will provide extra support in these areas. The five steps are as follows – i) Look for hazards. (Ignore the trivial and concentrate on significant hazards that could cause serious harm). ii) Decide who might be harmed and how. (Gymnasts, coaches, visitors etc). iii) |