Safeguarding & Documents

/ Children should be accompanied to the playing area and only left when coach/officials are present rather than just being left in the car park. Please ensure children are collected on time after the match or training session.

/ Respect umpires, officials, coaches, players and spectators and encourage the players to do the same. Do not interfere with any of the coach/manager’s decisions/advice or distract any of the players during the match. If you are concerned about a coach’s methods or decisions approach them calmly to discuss the matter at a time convenient to both of you.

/ Show an appreciation for volunteer coaches and administrators – their efforts contribute hugely to young people being able to participate.

/ Set a good example by your own behaviour. Use correct and proper language at all times. Appreciate good performances and skilful play by all participants. Always be polite to spectators and players from the opposition team. Protect the reputation of the sport and prevent it from being brought into disrepute.

/ Encourage your child to learn the rules of hockey and play within these rules. Support and encourage good performance as well as good results. Do not belittle or criticise a player for making mistakes. Remember that young people participate in sport for their enjoyment, not yours. Never force your child to take part in sport.

/ Please stand on the opposite side of the pitch to the squad benches whilst the match is in progress and never stand behind the goal. If you have young children with you, keep them under close supervision and outside the fenced area around the pitch.

/ Ensure match fees and subscriptions are paid on time. If you have difficulty in meeting the expenses please approach the coach or team captain to discuss the matter in confidence.

/ Ensure your child is wearing a mouth guard & shin pads during all coaching sessions and matches.

/ Inform the club of any changes to your child's contact or medical details.

England Hockey believes that all young people have the right to be safe and enjoy their hockey, which is a view supported by Letchworth Hockey Club (LHC) and we are committed to promoting the welfare of all young people in our sport to protect them from harm. In this instance, a young person is defined as anyone under the age of 18.

Letchworth Hockey Club has adopted the England Hockey safeguarding policy

All adults who are working or volunteering at LHC have a duty of care to remain vigilant and report any suspicions of poor practice or abuse of a child.

It is NOT their responsibility to decide whether an abuse has taken place, but it IS their responsibility to report any concerns they do have to the Welfare Officer.

This can be done verbally or in writing, and anyone can discuss concerns even if they are unsure as to whether it is worth reporting as the Welfare Officer may have more information or details about that child that others are not aware of.