At Tempest Run Club, we believe that running is for everyone – and that means creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for all of our members. Looking after each other’s welfare is something we all share responsibility for.

What Welfare Means

Welfare covers a wide range of things, from safeguarding and protecting adults (including vulnerable adults) to tackling issues like bullying, harassment, poor practice, or misconduct.  Good welfare practice helps us make sure that every run, session, and event is enjoyable, safe, and supportive – whether you’re a runner, a leader, or a volunteer.

Our Commitment

As an England Athletics affiliated club, we follow the standards and guidance set by UK Athletics, who lead on safeguarding policies and codes of conduct for our sport. This includes how to raise concerns, how complaints are handled, and the responsibilities we have as a club.  We want everyone at Tempest to have a positive experience. If you ever feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or treated unfairly, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our welfare officers. You’ll always be listened to in confidence and your concerns will be taken seriously.

Equality & Inclusion

Tempest Run Club is proud to be an inclusive, friendly club. We welcome adults of all abilities, backgrounds, and experiences. While there may occasionally be practical limits to what we can offer (for example, with certain disabilities or support needs on regular training routes), we always look seriously at how we can adapt, and if needed, signpost to other clubs or facilities that might be better suited.  There is absolutely no place in our club for discrimination of any kind. If you feel you’ve experienced this, please speak with a welfare officer.

Safeguarding – What to Do if You Have a Concern

If you believe someone is at risk of immediate harm, please call 999.  For non-urgent concerns, you can talk to one of our welfare officers or a run leader.  You can also contact England Athletics’ Welfare Team directly on 07464 522426 or by email at welfare@englandathletics.org.  All concerns are handled sensitively, and information is only shared on a need-to-know basis.

Serious Misconduct

Serious misconduct – such as theft, violence, doping, fraud, or safeguarding breaches – is never acceptable. If you need to report misconduct, please contact our welfare officer or email welfare@englandathletics.org (copying in the club welfare officer if possible).

Incidents & Accidents

If an accident, incident, or near miss happens during a club activity, please let a run leader or welfare officer know as soon as possible.

Your Welfare Officers are: