NWGC Health and Safety Policy

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Health and Safety Policy (updated March 2026)

NWGC (North Walsham Gymnastics Club) regards the health, safety and welfare of all members to be of paramount importance, which should not be comprised. To this end, it is NWGC’s policy to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, that procedures are in place to maintain a safe and healthy environment not only for its members but also for other people who may be affected by the activities of NWGC.

This policy document sets out NWGC’ responsibilities and the minimum standards required in line with health and safety law.

NWGC aims to promote a positive health and safety culture, and to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved in the sport. NWGC endeavours to achieve the highest standards of welfare.

Everyone involved at NWGC has a responsibility to help maintain a positive health and safety culture. NWGC has a common law duty of care to those who may be affected by their activities and have a responsibility to implement appropriate health and safety policy and arrangements. Gymnastics is a complex sport with inherent risks. NWGC takes all reasonable steps to minimise these risks.

British Gymnastics has developed a Health & Safety Management System & Guidance to assist clubs and affiliated organisations to meet their legal responsibilities which NWGC has fully adopted.

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (and its subordinate legislation) is the principle legislation that informs the policy. The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 is one other key pieces of legislation that underpins the British Gymnastics Management System & Guidance. responsible for ensuring the policy and procedure.

NWGC will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the health and safety policy. Provide and undertake regular audits and review of the effectiveness of health and safety arrangements. Review near misses, accidents and other adverse events to identify trends and take action to prevent incidents occurring. Respond to health and safety concerns in line with the British Gymnastics and NWGC Complaints and Disciplinary Procedure.

The NWGC Health and Safety policy will be annually monitored. A policy review may also be conducted in response to any of the following occurrences: Changes in legislation or guidance, changes in governance of the sport, changes in the nature or size of British Gymnastics or a procedural review taking place as a result of a significant case.



NWGC has a legal responsibility to consult all of their employees on health and safety matters. Consultation involves NWGC giving information to employees and listening to and taking account of their views before making any health and safety decisions. Consultation with employees must be carried out on matters to do with their health and safety at work, including but not limited to:

  • Any change which may substantially affect their health and safety at work, for example in procedures, equipment or ways of working.
  • NWGC’s arrangements for getting competent people to satisfy health and safety laws.
  •  The information that employees must be given on the likely risks and dangers arising from their work, measures to reduce or get rid of these risks and what they should do if they have to deal with a risk or danger.
  • The planning of health and safety training.
  • The health and safety consequences of introducing new technology.

The following related policies/guidance should be used in conjunction with this policy.

Safe Coaching Practice, Safe Participation and Safe Trips.

An Equality Policy and a Data Protection Policy has been completed and carried out.

The right to take part in gymnastics activities in a safe environment, and stay free from harm, applies to everyone and all members must take reasonable steps to ensure they are fully aware and compliant with the relevant aspects of the policy.

  • NWGC will comply with British Gymnastics policies and the relevant statutory requirements (as declared as part of the annual registration process).
  • Identify NWGC’s health and safety responsibilities (see the British Gymnastics Health & Safety Management System & Guidance document), and put in place the relevant aspects of the British Gymnastics or equivalent Health & Safety Management system.
  • Identify significant risks and plan the work of the organisation to minimise all risks in respect of Health and Safety.
  • Ensure the responsibilities for Health and Safety are designated to individuals with the appropriate skills and experience.
  • Ensure that there are adequate training opportunities for staff, coaches, instructors, officials and other volunteers.
  • Ensure reporting procedures are followed for any accidents or incidents and inform British Gymnastics of any serious allegations or concerns of poor practice.

In addition, all members must:

  • Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of other people whom their acts or omissions may affect.
  • Conduct activities in line with training and British Gymnastics policy and guidance.
  • Co-operate with British Gymnastics, and the appropriate Home Country or Regional affiliated organisations and club, on issues relating to health and safety.
  • Ensure reporting procedures are followed for any accidents or incidents and inform British Gymnastics of any serious allegations or concerns of poor practice.