Gymnastics Club Allergy Policy
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to ensure a safe environment for all members, particularly those with allergies, by outlining guidelines and procedures to minimize risks and manage allergic reactions effectively.
1. No Food Policy in the Hall
To reduce the risk of exposure to allergens, food and drinks (excluding water) are strictly prohibited in the gymnastics hall. This includes snacks, packed lunches, and any other consumables.
Signs are clearly displayed to remind members and visitors of this policy.
2. Acknowledgement of Risk
Despite the no-food policy, the club cannot guarantee that the hall will be entirely free of allergens due to factors beyond our control (e.g., food residues on clothing or accidental breaches).
Parents and guardians of children with allergies must be aware of this limitation and take appropriate precautions.
3. Epipen and Medication Policy
Parents/guardians are encouraged to leave emergency medications, such as epipens, with reception staff in a clearly labeled container. However, if preferred, they may keep the medication with them or with the child, provided the coach is informed.
For every child with a known allergy, parents/guardians must complete an Allergy Action Plan, detailing:
Specific allergens.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Emergency steps to follow.
Contact information for parents/guardians and emergency services.
4. Procedure for Managing Allergic Reactions
Recognizing a Reaction:
Common symptoms include swelling, difficulty breathing, hives, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.
Coaches and staff are trained to identify these symptoms and act swiftly.
Emergency Response:
If an epipen is available, administer it immediately according to the Allergy Action Plan.
Call emergency services (999) and provide detailed information about the child and the situation.
Notify the child’s parent/guardian immediately.
Stay with the child until emergency services arrive.
Post-Reaction Review:
A formal incident report will be completed and shared with the child’s parents/guardians.
The club will review the circumstances of the reaction to improve preventative measures where possible.
5. Training and Awareness
Selected senior staff and Duty Managers will receive training on recognizing and managing allergic reactions, including the proper use of epipens.
Coaches will familiarize themselves with the Allergy Action Plans of children in their groups.
6. Parent/Guardian Responsibility
Inform the club of any known allergies when registering their child.
Provide up-to-date emergency medication and ensure it is in-date.
Communicate any changes to the child’s allergy or treatment plan promptly.
7. Communication of Policy
This policy will be shared with all members upon registration and be readily available on the club’s website.
Regular reminders will be sent to parents/guardians about the no-food policy and the importance of adhering to it.
8. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or after any significant incident to ensure it remains effective and comprehensive.
By implementing this policy, our gymnastics club aims to provide a safe and inclusive environment for all members, while supporting families in managing allergy risks effectively.