Welfare

This section is dedicated to supporting the health, safety, and overall well-being of our trail running community. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, we believe that physical and mental wellness are essential to enjoying the sport to its fullest. Here, you'll find resources, guidance, and information on topics such as mental health support, inclusivity, and safeguarding practices. Our aim is to foster a positive, supportive environment where every runner feels valued, heard, and cared for—on and off the trails.

Safeguarding

Billinge Running Club is committed to providing a safe, welcoming and supportive environment for all members, regardless of experience, ability or background. The welfare of our members is our top priority and we strive to foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere where every participant feels safe.

Billinge Running Club implements UK Athletics (UKA) and England Athletics' (EA) guidance to have the people, policies, and procedures in place to look after all of our members, volunteers, coaches/run leaders.

The UKA Adult Safeguarding Policy - www.englandathletics.org/clubhub/resource/adult-safeguarding-policy/

UK Athletics and HCAF Club Safeguarding Code of Conduct-

www.englandathletics.org/clubhub/resource/club-safeguarding-code-of-conduct/

Welfare

The Club’s Lead Welfare Officer is Lauren Barlow.

Lauren has attended UKA/EA Safeguarding Training and has a current DBS Certificate.

Club members can approach Lauren for support or can contact Lauren by email at Welfare@billingerunning.club

The role of your Welfare Officer:

1.To promote safeguarding and welfare

  • Ensure all club activities are in line with UKA and EA safeguarding policies.

  • Ensure that all members and volunteers understand and adhere to the club’s safeguarding procedures.

2. To provide support and guidance

  • To act as the first point of contact for any concerns relating to the welfare, safety or wellbeing of club members.

  • Provide advice and guidance regarding welfare and safeguarding issues

  • Offer appropriate support in cases of harassment, discrimination or bullying.

3. Risk assessment and safety

  • Work closely with club leaders to ensure that all activities are conducted with safety in mind.

  • Ensure that regular risk assessments are carried out

4. Communication and awareness

  • Ensure that all members are aware of the club’s safeguarding and welfare procedures.

  • Develop and maintain clear communication channels for reporting concerns related to safeguarding or welfare

5. Investigation and Reporting

  • In the event of a safeguarding concern, work in collaboration with other relevant authorities including UKA, EA or the police to investigate the matter

  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of any welfare matters that may arise and how they were handled.

6. Maintain confidentiality

  • Handle all sensitive information, particularly in cases of safeguarding concerns, with the highest level of confidentiality and respect for privacy.

  • Ensure that any concerns or allegations are managed and reported in line with legal and ethical requirements.

Taking care of yourself

Being involved with athletics and running can have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing of a person.

People may join the sport with good mental health, but overtime experience poor mental health.  If you are experiencing mental health and wellbeing problems or know of someone who is struggling, there are a variety of places to go for support.

Samaritans- www.samaritans.org.uk

Provides confidential, non-judgemental emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those that could lead to suicide. You can phone, email, write a letter or in most cases talk to someone face to face.

Mind- www.mind.org.uk

Mind provides confidential mental health information services. With support and understanding, Mind enables people to make informed choices.

Refuge National Domestic Abuse Helpline- www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

Provides a helpline and support to help victims of domestic abuse.

 

Further useful links can be found at England Athletics Mental Health support (Club Hub)- www.englandathletics.org/welfare/mental-health-and-wellbeing/

 

If you are concerned for the immediate safety of someone please call 999