Code of Conduct

Last updated: November 17, 2025

Our Commitment

Haslemere Border Athletic Club is committed to providing a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for all members, coaches, volunteers, and visitors, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or background.

1. Core Values

All members of HBAC are expected to uphold the following core values:

Respect

Treat all members, coaches, volunteers, and officials with dignity and respect at all times.

Inclusivity

Welcome and support runners of all abilities, from beginners to elite athletes.

Integrity

Act honestly and ethically in all club activities and competitions.

Safety

Prioritize the health, safety, and wellbeing of all members and participants.

Sportsmanship

Display good sportsmanship in training, competition, and club activities.

Community

Foster a friendly, supportive, and social club atmosphere.

2. Expected Behavior

All HBAC members and participants are expected to:

2.1 At Training Sessions

Arrive on time and ready to participate
Follow coaches' instructions and training plans
Support and encourage fellow runners of all abilities
Be aware of and respect other users of shared spaces (paths, tracks, roads)
Take responsibility for your own safety and warm-up/cool-down
Communicate with coaches about injuries or concerns
Keep group together on group runs (wait at junctions, regroup points)
Use appropriate lighting and hi-visibility gear in low-light conditions

2.2 At Races and Competitions

Represent HBAC positively and wear club kit when competing
Follow race rules and organizers' instructions
Respect race officials, volunteers, and fellow competitors
Support and cheer for club teammates
Accept results graciously, whether personal bests or disappointments
Thank volunteers and organizers
Report any concerns to club officials promptly

2.3 Online and Social Media

Be respectful and considerate in all online communications
Protect the privacy of other members (don't share personal information)
Obtain consent before posting photos or videos featuring other members
Do not post content that could bring the club into disrepute
Report any online bullying or harassment to welfare officers
Remember that online posts reflect on the club

2.4 Club Facilities and Equipment

Respect Woolmer Hill Sports Association (WHSA) facilities and rules
Keep changing areas and communal spaces tidy
Return borrowed equipment promptly and in good condition
Report any damage or safety concerns immediately
Follow parking and access instructions

3. Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are not tolerated at HBAC and may result in disciplinary action:

Discrimination: Any form of discrimination based on age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or background
Harassment or Bullying: Physical, verbal, or psychological harassment or intimidation of any kind
Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse of any member or participant
Violence or Threats: Physical violence or threatening behavior toward any person
Inappropriate Language: Use of offensive, abusive, or discriminatory language
Sexual Misconduct: Unwanted sexual advances, comments, or behavior
Doping or Drug Use: Use of prohibited substances or violating UK Athletics anti-doping rules
Cheating: Deliberately violating race rules or falsifying results
Dangerous Behavior: Reckless actions that endanger yourself or others
Theft or Damage: Stealing from or damaging club or personal property
Intoxication: Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at club activities
Breach of Privacy: Misuse of members' personal information

4. Responsibilities

4.1 Members' Responsibilities

Familiarize yourself with and adhere to this Code of Conduct
Maintain valid membership and UK Athletics registration (for competing members)
Report any concerns about behavior or safety to welfare officers or committee
Support the club's values and help maintain a positive culture
Take responsibility for your own health, fitness, and wellbeing
Notify coaches of any medical conditions or injuries affecting participation

4.2 Coaches' Responsibilities

Hold appropriate coaching qualifications and maintain up-to-date DBS checks
Provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive training environment
Design appropriate training sessions for different ability levels
Lead by example and uphold the Code of Conduct at all times
Recognize and respond to signs of injury, fatigue, or distress
Maintain professional boundaries with all members
Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to welfare officers

4.3 Committee Members' Responsibilities

Uphold and enforce the Code of Conduct fairly and consistently
Ensure the club operates in accordance with UK Athletics guidelines
Maintain appropriate insurance and risk assessments
Handle complaints and disciplinary matters promptly and sensitively
Protect members' personal data in accordance with data protection law
Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion within the club

5. Safeguarding

HBAC is committed to safeguarding and protecting all members, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults. The club follows UK Athletics Safeguarding Policies and procedures.

If you have safeguarding concerns:

Contact our Welfare Officers immediately:

Annalisa Alexander - welfare@hbac.co.uk

Lawrie Baker - welfare@hbac.co.uk

In an emergency or if a child is in immediate danger, contact the Police on 999.

6. Reporting Concerns

If you witness or experience behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, please report it promptly:

For General Conduct Issues:

Contact the Club Secretary: secretary@hbac.co.uk

For Safeguarding Concerns:

Contact Welfare Officers: welfare@hbac.co.uk

For Serious Incidents:

Contact the Club Chair: chair@hbac.co.uk

All complaints will be taken seriously and handled confidentially. The club has a formal complaints procedure available from the Secretary upon request. You will not face retaliation for reporting concerns in good faith.

7. Disciplinary Process

Breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action. The process includes:

Investigation: The committee will investigate reported incidents fairly and promptly
Hearing: The member will have an opportunity to respond to allegations
Decision: The committee will determine appropriate action based on the severity and circumstances
Sanctions: May include warning, temporary suspension, or permanent expulsion from the club
Appeal: Members have the right to appeal decisions to the committee

Note: Serious incidents (e.g., assault, safeguarding concerns, criminal behavior) will be reported to appropriate authorities (Police, UK Athletics, statutory agencies) as required by law.

8. UK Athletics Alignment

This Code of Conduct is aligned with and complements:

UK Athletics Code of Conduct for Coaches
UK Athletics Safeguarding and Protecting Children Policy
UK Athletics Anti-Doping Rules
England Athletics Rules and Regulations
Equality Act 2010

Members are expected to comply with all relevant UK Athletics and England Athletics policies and regulations.

9. Review and Updates

This Code of Conduct is reviewed annually by the HBAC committee and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, UK Athletics guidance, or club practices. Members will be notified of significant changes.

10. Acknowledgment

By joining HBAC and participating in club activities, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

Together, we create a positive running community.

Thank you for helping make HBAC a welcoming, safe, and enjoyable place for runners of all abilities.

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