A responsible sports coach helps the development of individuals through improving their performance. This is achieved by:

  • Identifying and meeting the needs of individuals
  • Improving performance through a progressive programme of safe, guided practice measured performance and/or competition
  • Creating an environment in which individuals are motivated to maintain participation and improve performance

Coaches should comply with the principles of good ethical practice listed below. A coach must at
all times:

  • Hold relevant, up to date Scottish Cycling/ British Cycling or other internationally recognised coaching qualifications
  • Hold a valid PVG if applicable to their role
  • Make sport fun, enjoyable and promote fair play
  • Always work in an open environment, avoiding frequent private or unobserved situations
  • Recognise the developmental needs and capacity of each individual and avoid excessive training and competition, pushing them against their will and putting undue pressure on them
  • Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person and treat everyone equally
  • Place the wellbeing and safety of the individual above the development of performance
  • Encourage and guide individuals to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance by giving enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism
  • Build balanced working relationships based on mutual trust and respect that empower and include individuals,
    both youth and senior, in the decision-making process.
  • Ensure that activities they deliver or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of
    the individual.
  • Clarify, at the outset, with individuals (and where appropriate with their parents) exactly what is expected of
    them and what individuals are entitled to expect from their coach
  • Always promote the positive aspects of cycling (e.g. fair play) and never condone rule violations or the use of
    prohibited substances
  • Consistently display high standards of behaviour and appearance, be an excellent role model including not smoking or drinking alcohol whilst actively coaching
  • Co-operate fully with other specialists (e.g. other coaches, teachers, officials, sport scientists, doctors, physiotherapists) in the best interests of the individual
  • Never engage in or tolerate any form of inappropriate behaviour and language
  • Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal benefit or reward. In particular, coaches must not use their position to establish or pursue a sexual or improper relationship with an individual or someone close to them
  • Abide by the Scottish Government GIRFEC policy guidelines.
  • Coaches should not allow allegations to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon

Coaches have the right to:

  • Access ongoing training and information on all aspects of their role, including wellbeing & protection
  • Support in reporting suspected abuse or poor practice
  • Access to professional support services
  • Fair and equitable treatment by the governing body/club
  • Be protected from abuse by individuals, other adult members and parents / spectators
  • Not to be left vulnerable while carrying out their role