Codes of Conduct & Policies

Our Codes of Conduct and Club policies explain the standards expected of members, parents, carers, coaches, volunteers, officials and visitors. They apply, where relevant, during Club sessions, trips, competitions, events, online communications and when representing Kingston Kayak Club.

These documents help us maintain a positive Club environment and provide clear processes when concerns or disagreements arise.

Club Codes of Conduct & Policies

The documents below are linked directly to the June 2026 files published in the Club’s policy list. Please read the codes relevant to your role, and ensure young paddlers understand the Junior Code of Conduct.

How Our Codes Apply

Different people have different responsibilities, but the same underlying standards of kindness, respect and consideration apply throughout Club life.

Paddlers and Club Members

• Treat fellow paddlers, coaches, volunteers, officials and members of the public with respect.
• Follow reasonable instructions and the relevant rules of the activity or venue.
• Take care of Club equipment, facilities and other people’s property.
• Help make sessions welcoming to new and less experienced members.
• Raise concerns rather than allowing unsafe or inappropriate behaviour to continue.

Parents, Carers and Spectators

• Encourage enjoyment, learning and effort rather than focusing only on results.
• Respect coaches, volunteers, officials and other paddlers.
• Support young people to understand and follow the Club’s expectations.
• Raise any concerns appropriately and avoid confrontations during activities.

Coaches, Leaders, Officials and Volunteers

• Model the standards of conduct expected throughout the Club.
• Prioritise participants’ welfare, appropriate boundaries and respectful communication.
• Operate within the agreed responsibilities and limits of their roles.
• Respond appropriately to concerns and follow relevant Club policies and reporting procedures.

Respect, Inclusion & Bullying

Everyone should be able to take part in Kingston Kayak Club activities without experiencing bullying, harassment, discrimination or intimidation.

Differences in age, experience, background, ability or competitive ambition should never be grounds for excluding or belittling others. Competitive sport can be challenging, but poor behaviour towards teammates, opponents, officials or volunteers is not acceptable.

Communication, Photography & Social Media

Members often communicate through Club messaging groups, email, the website and social media. These channels should be used responsibly and with regard for privacy and safeguarding.

• Be respectful when posting or commenting about fellow members, officials and other clubs.
• Take care when sharing photographs, videos or personal information, particularly involving children and young people.
• Use appropriate channels for concerns rather than making public allegations.
• Follow the Club’s digital communications and photography arrangements.

The detailed requirements are set out in the relevant Club policies.

Club Facilities, Equipment & Property

Members are expected to look after the facilities and equipment provided by the Club and to respect the belongings of others.

This includes following instructions for the use and return of equipment, keeping storage areas tidy and complying with any local operating rules.

Personal boat storage is subject to separate allocation arrangements and responsibilities. Permission to store a boat should not be assumed simply because a member has access to the Club’s facilities.

Raising a Concern or Making a Complaint

Most questions and minor disagreements can be addressed by speaking calmly with the relevant coach, session leader or Committee member. Where a formal complaint is required, it should be dealt with under the Club’s approved procedures.

1. Raise the issue. Explain what has happened and, where possible, provide relevant details.
2. Use the appropriate route. Behavioural complaints should be directed to a Club officer or Committee member; welfare and safeguarding concerns should be raised with a Welfare Officer or appropriate authority.
3. Allow the process to operate. The Club should consider concerns fairly, sensitively and in accordance with its governing documents.
4. Refer to the formal procedure. The approved Disciplinary Procedure and Constitution govern formal decisions and any available appeal process.

How Policies Are Maintained

Kingston Kayak Club’s Committee is responsible for the adoption and review of Club policies. The Club reviews its policies periodically and when changes in activities, guidance or requirements make an update necessary.

Members and volunteers should refer to the current approved documents rather than rely solely on summaries, announcements or older downloaded copies.

Related Policies & Guidance

This page addresses conduct, everyday Club rules and complaints. Other parts of the Policies & Governance section cover specialist responsibilities.

This webpage provides an accessible overview of Kingston Kayak Club’s conduct expectations and policies. It does not replace the current approved policy documents or the Club Constitution. Formal procedures, definitions and decisions must follow those documents. Document links use the addresses published in the Club policy list; the Club should check them as part of normal website maintenance.