Grievance / Complaints Procedure

Planet Gymnastics Ltd operates an open policy under which any gymnast, parent/guardian or official who has a grievance or complaint against any other user of the club is encouraged to make their feelings known to the Directors in order that the problem can be highlighted and discussed. This will hopefully provide an atmosphere within the club which is conducive to high levels of achievement and as enjoyable as possible to all users.

Should any person wish to make a report regarding any grievance or complaint, or to make any suggestion which may enhance safety within the club, please put this report in writing marked “For the attention of the Directors”. The report will be discussed by the directors at the earliest opportunity, within a maximum of 30 days, and the reporter will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.

It should be remembered that the nature of gymnastics requires the teaching of skills using techniques and the use of stretching methods which may appear unfamiliar to the untrained eye. These are required to reach the level of performance required at elite competitive level. Hands on coaching input, and spotting and supporting techniques involving contact between the coach and gymnast are kept to the minimum required, but are necessary at times to secure the safety of the participant.

If a parent or guardian has any query regarding these techniques or any other coaching queries, it is best to address the concern(s) to the Directors. Our coaches are aware of the club’s adoption of, and their responsibilities under the BG Child protection policy. As such the rights of children must remain uppermost, and variations from this policy will not be condoned by the club.

Concerns about abuse, child welfare and poor coaching practice should be reported to the Welfare Officer Mrs Emma O’Keefe. If abuse is suspected, the Welfare Officer will take appropriate action. If the suspicion is mild, the parents may be consulted. If the Welfare Officer decides more serious action is required, she will contact Social Services or the Police. If in doubt, the Welfare Officer will seek advice from the NSPCC or the British Gymnastics Ethics and Welfare Department.

 

Child Protection

‘EVERY CHILD MATTERS’

Planet Gymnastics Ltd is proud to be a successful, caring and child friendly club. All Planet Gymnastics Ltd employees and volunteers have the welfare and safety of the participants as their priority.

We recognise that we have a moral and legal responsibility to protect participants from any form of abuse or danger.

As a club we have adopted and abide by the British Gymnastics Child Protection Policy and Procedures.

Our child protection policy is based upon three fundamental principles:

·         The participant’s welfare and safety is of paramount importance.

·         The rights and dignity of every participant must be respected.

·         All participants have a right to be protected from abuse.

Our strategy for doing this is by:

·         Adopting and implementing BG guidelines for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults.

·         Appointing suitably trained Welfare officers to whom grievances or complaints can be made confidentially.

·         Ensuring that best practice guidelines are followed at all times.

·         Ensuring that all staff are suitably trained in ‘Safeguarding’ and ‘Health, Safety and Welfare’ issues.

·         Implementing appropriate screening procedures to confirm the suitability of coaches and officials working with children. This will include Criminal Record Bureau disclosure.

·         Ensuring that grievances or complaints are dealt with promptly and in accordance with the published procedures.

·         Ensuring that a minimum of two responsible adults are present at all training sessions or events.

·         Ensuring that the participants and/or parents are aware of the purpose of videoing or filming during training or events.

Having a zero tolerance level for poor practice, bullying and any potential form of abuse.

EQUITY POLICY

Planet Gymnastics Ltd is fully committed to the principles of equity and good moral and ethical frameworks. The club and its coaches/officials will encourage individuals from all communities to become involved at all levels of participation, coaching, officiating and management.

The following equity principles will be adhered too at all times.

• All persons must respect the rights, dignity and worth of every human being.

• All individuals must be treated fairly and equally regardless of gender, age, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religion, political persuasion or disability. Discrimination through race, gender or disability will not be tolerated.

• Sexual and racial harassment and discrimination will be prohibited.

Inequality will be avoided:

• When selecting, recruiting and training individuals.

• In the preparation and distribution of all materials and publications

• In the monitoring of practices and procedures relating to operations and activities undertaken.

“All cases of discrimination will be dealt with in accordance with the Planet Gymnastics Ltd Complaints procedures”

Health and Safety

‘SAFETY FIRST’

Planet Gymnastics Ltd recognizes the duties it has under Health and Safety regulations to ensure the safety, health and well being of gymnasts, coaches and volunteers when they are involved in club activities.

Everyone involved with Planet Gymnastics Ltd recognises there are inherent risks in the sport of gymnastics due to the complex nature of the activities and although it is impossible to eliminate all risks we aim to minimise them as far as possible.

Our strategy for doing this is by:

• making safety our no. 1 priority

• identifying the potential hazards and eliminating, reducing or isolating them

• making coaches and participants aware of identified risks

• adhering to recognised safe coaching practices and techniques

• being careful and vigilant in our approach at all times.

“All cases of discrimination will be dealt with in accordance with the Planet Gymnastics Ltd Complaints procedures”

 ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Planet Gymnastics Ltd is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all our members. We believe it is important that participants, coaches, administrators and parents should, at all times, show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others. Therefore, we promote openness at all time and encourage every one to share concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the club with the Directors. Our Anti-Bullying Policy has been designed with our entire membership in mind, we recognise that an abuser may be from different groups within our organisation and that bullying can take different forms, such as, physical, psychological, racist, sexual, or aggressive verbal conduct. Through educating all our members to the symptoms that may indicate that a person may be the victim of a bully, and understanding a typical victim and bully …..we will promote a zero tolerance on bullying.

Planet Gymnastics Ltd Will…..

• Create open environment at all times

• Provide adequate supervision at all training session and trips away

• Encourage children to speak out and share any concerns with a person in charge, welfare officer or other responsible adult

• Take all signs of possible bulling seriously

• Never condemn some one for “telling”

• Have discussions with coach’s, gymnasts and other club officials about bullying and why it matters.

• Make adults within the club aware of the signs and symptoms of bullying

“All cases of bullying will be dealt with in accordance with the Planet Gymnastics Ltd Complaints procedures”

NO ONE DESERVES TO BE A VICTIM OF BULLYING

EVERYBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO BE TREATED WITH RESPECT

Planet Gymnastics & Cheerleading

 Membership Rules

Membership

• Membership is open to all.

• Annual  gymnastics membership and insurance is required by all members.

• Renewal of membership and insurance is due by 1^st October each year and is non-refundable or transferable.

Fees

•  In the case of long term injury/illness it may be possible to suspend payment of fees.  If any member misses gym sessions because of holiday breaks or minor illnesses no reduction or refund of fees will be given.

• Monthly fees are based on a 48 week year which allows for the closure of the gym for at Christmas and Easter.

• Fees are non-refundable for any other holidays taken during the year when the gym remains open.

• In the event that your child wishes to leave the Club please inform the Club Director in writing.

• Continuous non attendance of over four weeks will mean that your child’s place is forfeited unless you inform the Club Director

Gymnasts

• Gymnasts must wear suitable clothing in the gym.

• Gymnasts must always be punctual as warm up is important.

• Metal zips, buttons, skirts or jeans are NOT allowed under any circumstances – members will not be allowed to participate if they are wearing these items.

• All long hair MUST be tied back

• All clothing and personal belongings (including shoes) must be stored in the changing room. They must not be left in the gym.

• Gymnasts must not use any equipment unless a coach is present.

• Discipline and safety must be observed at all times

Parents

• Please make sure your child understands these membership rules

• Please ensure your child is on time for their class so that they do not miss their essential warm up time.

• Please ensure that you collect your child on time from the session.

• Under no circumstances are parents allowed into the gym once the class has started. In the interest of safety, it is not advisable to call or communicate with your child through the gym windows as this may confuse and distract your child and others and can be dangerous. If you would like to speak to a coach, please ask for the Club Director.

• Please ensure that you keep all fire exits free when dropping off, waiting for or collecting your child.

• Please ensure you are familiar with codes of conduct of the Club.

  CODES OF CONDUCT

For Participants

Planet Gymnastics is 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 Club directors Denise Morgan and Becky Morgan.

As a member of Planet Gymnastics 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

 

CODE OF CONDUCT

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

                            

CODE OF CONDUCT

For Club Coaches, Officials and Volunteers

The essence of good ethical conduct and practise is summarised below. All Club Coaches, Officials and Volunteers must:-

·          Consider the well-being and safety of participants before the development of performance

 

·          Develop an appropriate working relationship with performers based on mutual trust and respect

·          Hold the appropriate, valid qualifications and insurance cover

·          Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking part and ensure all participants are suitably prepared physically and mentally when learning new skills

·          Display consistently high standards of behaviour and appearance, dressing suitably and not using inappropriate language at any time whilst involved with club activities

·          Never consume alcohol immediately before or during training or events

·          Obtain prior agreement from the parent/guardian of performers before transporting them anywhere (training/competitions

·          Never have performers stay overnight at your home

·          Never exert undue influence over performers to obtain personal benefit or reward

·          Always report any incidents, referrals or disclosures immediately, following the appropriate guidelines set out in the BG Child Protection policy 2004

·          Never condone rule violations or use of prohibited substances

·          Make sure that confidential information is not divulged unless with the express approval of the individual concerned

·          Promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play)

·          Encourage performers to value their performances and not just results

·          Follow all guidelines laid down by BG and Planet Gymnastics Ltd.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CLUB RULES

• No outdoor shoes, food or drink in the gym

• Gymnasts must wear leisure attire, no jeans/skirts/dresses.

• No socks allowed

• Parents are not allowed in the gym. There is a waiting area for parents

• Please do not approach the coaches whilst they are coaching in the gym. Please make an appointment to see the head coach if you have any queries.

• No jewellery is to be worn at any time during the class

• If your child is more than ten minutes late we can refuse their inclusion of the class that day due to missing warm up and increasing the risk of injury.

• We do not accept responsibility for loss or damage of any items

• Please ensure you bring your child to the class ON TIME and pick them up from the class ON TIME.

• If you are going to be late picking up your child please ring the Gym

• Siblings waiting with parents in the waiting area must not run around and block pathways.

• The doors leading into the gym must be kept clear for Health and Safety reasons

• As soon as you have seen your child into a class/picked them up, please move out of the way of the doors to the gym.

• The club emergency number is 07790920573.