Our Commitment 

At Newburn Running Club, the welfare and wellbeing of all our members is our top priority. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, supportive and respectful environment for everyone, regardless of age, ability or background. 

We are committed to promoting positive behaviour, preventing bullying or harassment, safeguarding our members, and ensuring all club activities are conducted with integrity, honesty and respect. 

Our Welfare Programme includes: 

• Safeguarding all members 
• Upholding fair play, respect and good conduct on and off club premises or during club-related events. 
• Preventing discrimination, bullying, harassment or any form of misconduct. 
• Providing a safe space for members to raise concerns or complaints — whether about behaviour, wellbeing, safety, or conduct. 
• Ensuring coaches, run-leaders, volunteers and committee members meet required checks, training and qualifications (e.g. DBS where relevant, safeguarding training, UKA compliance for clubs affiliated to governing bodies).  

Club Welfare Officer(s) & Safeguarding Responsibility 

We have appointed a dedicated Welfare team including a Lead Welfare Officer and two Club Welfare Officers (CWO), who serve as the first point of contact for any welfare, safeguarding or wellbeing concerns. The Welfare Officers: 

• Listens to and handles concerns raised by club members with discretion, empathy and confidentiality.  
• Helps enforce and uphold our Code of Conduct and club policies.  
• Supports the committee in ensuring all necessary checks and training are in place for coaches, volunteers and those working with children or vulnerable adults.  
• Provides or signposts additional support if members need help — whether for mental health, safeguarding, or wellbeing issues.  

Our Lead Welfare Officer (Barbara Hodgson), is supported by two Club Welfare Officers (Chris Ashburn & Wendy Carr). You can contact our Welfare Officers via: welfare@newburnrunningclub.co.uk.  
 

We take all concerns seriously. Reports will be handled confidentially and in line with best-practice safeguarding guidelines. 

Code of Conduct & Member Responsibilities 

By joining the club, every member agrees to abide by our Code of Conduct, which includes: 

• Treating all members, volunteers, coaches, and the public with respect and consideration — whether in training, events or social settings.  
• Maintaining high standards of personal behaviour; avoiding bullying, harassment, discriminatory or irresponsible conduct.  
• Following any facility or venue rules during club activities; respecting shared spaces and other users.  

Raising a Concern — Confidentiality & Support 

If you ever have a concern about the welfare, safety or wellbeing of any club member you can raise it directly with our Welfare Officers (contact info above). 

If you feel the matter is serious or urgent (e.g. risk of harm, safeguarding concern), you can also contact the national governing body or relevant safeguarding authority — particularly if Welfare Officer is unavailable.  

All reports will be dealt with in confidence. We encourage early reporting to ensure prompt support and, where needed, early intervention. 

Additional Support & Well-being Resources 

We understand that training, events, family and personal pressures can sometimes affect mental or emotional wellbeing. As part of our welfare commitment, we encourage members to reach out — whether to our Welfare Officer or via trusted external resources. If needed, we can signpost to support services such as mental-health organisations, help-lines, or local support networks. Our club aims not only to help you run better, but to feel better—physically, mentally and socially.