It is mandatory for clubs in England and Wales who have under 18s or vulnerable adults as members or users of their services to appoint a club welfare officer.

Club welfare officers (CWOs) have always been mandatory for Go-Ride clubs and we have now extended this to all clubs who have U18s or vulnerable adults as club members or participants in club activities. In the Working Together 2013 document, it is specified that if you are putting on activities for children you need to have a designated person for safeguarding/child protection issues. Whilst British Cycling have a Safeguarding department in place we are too far removed to be accessible for all club member issues.

What are the duties of the role?
Primarily a CWO will raise welfare issues at club meetings and activities as well as being a point of contact for anyone with any welfare concerns. This may range from serious issues such as abuse or neglect, to more sport specific aspects such as a race or activity being too demanding for young participants.

What checks and qualifications are needed?
Candidate CWOs will need to have a Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS, this replaces the old CRB system). British Cycling will pay for and administer this check. Candidates will also need to complete the Educare “Child Protection in Sport and Active Leisure” online learning course as a minimum. Individuals who hold professional roles such as teacher or doctor may already have completed adequate safeguarding training.

Well Done and Thank you to Karen Wardle

Our Congratulations go out to Gemma, John and Warren after Qualifying and can now look forward to cycling in the Perth, Australian sun in September 2016. Well Done to You All..

The Gran Fondo was held on fully closed roads over 80.2 miles (129.07km). Riders competing to qualify for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships must compete over the long route. The Gran Fondo was held on fully closed roads over 80.2 miles (129.07km).