Health & Safety Policy

Cheer Valley Cheerleading Team Health and Safety Policy

1. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidelines for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all members of the Cheer Valley Cheerleading Team (CVA), including athletes, coaches, volunteers, and spectators. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters growth, fun, and athleticism while minimizing risks associated with cheerleading activities.

2. Scope This policy applies to all members of the CVA, including athletes, coaches, team staff, and volunteers, at all practices, competitions, events, and other team-related activities.

3. General Health and Safety Principles

Safety First: The safety of our athletes and staff is always the top priority. All activities and routines will be designed to minimize risk while maximizing skill development.
Trained Personnel: Designated Coaches and staff members must be certified in CPR and First Aid. All Coaches should hold a valid cheerleading coaching certification. Coaches are expected to have up-to-date knowledge on injury prevention and recovery techniques.
Physical and Mental Health: The physical and mental well-being of all participants will be supported, with regular check-ins and the opportunity for athletes to voice any concerns or issues.
Equipment Standards: All equipment used during practices and competitions (e.g., mats, protective gear, etc.) must be regularly inspected for wear and damage and will be replaced or repaired as needed.

4. Risk Management

Injury Reporting: Any injuries sustained during team activities, no matter how minor, must be immediately reported to a coach. The athlete will be assessed and receive appropriate care, with emergency procedures in place for serious injuries. A detailed injury report will be documented.
Warm-Up and Cool-Down: All athletes must participate in mandatory warm-up exercises before each practice or event and cool-down exercises afterward to prevent injury. Coaches will ensure these routines are followed.
Skill Progression: Athletes will only be asked to perform skills and stunts they are physically capable of executing. A gradual progression plan will be used to ensure each athlete develops the skills necessary for more advanced movements.
Supervision: A sufficient number of qualified coaches and staff members will be present during all team activities to ensure appropriate supervision of all athletes.
No jewellery allowed. All must be removed or will void our insurance. No exceptions.

5. Emergency Procedures

First Aid: In case of injury, a coach or designated staff member will administer basic first aid. If necessary, emergency medical services will be contacted immediately. Each coach will have access to a first aid kit during team activities.
Emergency Contacts: Emergency contact information for each athlete will be collected at the start of each season via Coacha. Coaches/Staff will keep this information on hand at all practices, events, and competitions.
Evacuation Plan: In the event of an emergency requiring evacuation (e.g., fire, severe weather, etc.), all participants will follow the established evacuation procedure. An emergency exit plan will be communicated at the beginning of each event or season.

6. Athlete Behavior and Responsibilities

Conduct and Sportsmanship: All athletes are expected to demonstrate positive behavior, respect for others, and good sportsmanship both on and off the mat. Disruptive behavior or actions that put the safety of others at risk will not be tolerated.
Health Responsibility: Athletes are expected to stay hydrated, follow a balanced diet, get adequate rest, and avoid excessive fatigue. Any athlete feeling ill or injured should inform a coach and refrain from participating until cleared by a healthcare professional.
Reporting Hazards: Any unsafe condition (e.g., faulty equipment, unsafe facility conditions, etc.) should be reported immediately to a coach or staff member for resolution.

7. Parent and Guardian Involvement

Communication: Parents and guardians will be informed of any health and safety issues or updates. Coaches will maintain open lines of communication with families regarding the health and safety of athletes.
Parental Consent and Support: All parents must complete consent forms acknowledging they are aware of the health and safety policies and procedures of CVA. Parents are also encouraged to assist with transportation and support during events while following safety guidelines.

9. Policy Review and Updates

This health and safety policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and effective. Any changes to the policy will be communicated to all team members and their families promptly.

10. Acknowledgment

All athletes, coaches, and parents/guardians accept the above when registering their child to Coacha and understand the Cheer Valley Cheerleading Team Health and Safety Policy and agree to adhere to its guidelines.

Signed:

S.Williams & A.Barber
Cheer Valley Cheerleading Team
Date: 24/03/25

This policy is designed to ensure that the CVA maintains a safe and healthy environment for all participants. Adherence to these standards is essential for the continued success and well-being of everyone involved in the team.

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