| Policy owner | Shannon Athletic Club Committee
 | Approved by | Club Committee
 | Date approved | 08/05/2026
 | Review date | Annually, or sooner if required
 | Version | 1.0

1. Introduction

Shannon Athletic Club (SAC) is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of club life. The club recognises that athletics should be accessible, welcoming and respectful for everyone, regardless of age, gender, race, disability, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, family status or any other characteristic.
 
 This policy outlines the club’s commitment to creating an environment where all members, athletes, coaches, volunteers, parents/guardians, officials and visitors feel valued, respected and supported.

2. Purpose of the Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:
 Promote equality, diversity and inclusion across all club activities.
 Provide a welcoming and respectful environment for all members.
 Ensure equal opportunities for participation, development and involvement.
 Prevent discrimination, bullying, harassment and victimisation.
 Support fair and transparent practices within the club.
 Promote awareness and understanding of diversity and inclusion.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all Shannon Athletic Club activities, including training sessions, competitions, meetings, fundraising activities, social events and any activity organised under the name of the club. It applies to all members, coaches, volunteers, committee members, parents/guardians, officials and visitors.

4. Policy Statement

SAC believes that diversity strengthens the club and wider community. The club is committed to treating all individuals fairly, with dignity and respect, and to ensuring that no individual is disadvantaged or excluded because of their background, identity or personal circumstances.
 
 The club will take reasonable steps to create an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

Equality, diversity and inclusion are shared responsibilities across the club.
 
 The Club Committee is responsible for approving this policy, reviewing it regularly and promoting an inclusive club culture.
 
 Coaches and volunteers are responsible for ensuring activities are delivered in a respectful, fair and inclusive manner.
 
 Members, athletes and parents/guardians are expected to behave respectfully and support an environment free from discrimination or harassment.
 
 All individuals involved in the club are encouraged to raise concerns if they witness or experience inappropriate behaviour.

6. Equal Opportunity and Participation

SAC welcomes participation from individuals of all backgrounds and abilities.
 
 The club will:
 Provide equal access to athletics opportunities where reasonably possible.
 Promote inclusive participation and encourage underrepresented groups.
 Recruit coaches and volunteers fairly and transparently.
 Support equal opportunities for development, progression and involvement within the club.
 Make reasonable efforts to remove barriers to participation.

7. Respect and Dignity

All members are expected to treat one another with dignity, courtesy and respect both on and off the track.
 
 The club promotes:
 Inclusive and respectful language.
 Positive behaviour and sportsmanship.
 Respect for individual differences and identities.
 A safe and welcoming environment for all.
 
 Bullying, intimidation, abusive behaviour or exclusionary behaviour will not be tolerated.

8. Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment

SAC has zero tolerance for discrimination, bullying, harassment or victimisation.
 
 This includes behaviour related to race, gender, disability, sexuality, religion, age or any other protected characteristic.
 
 Examples may include:
 Offensive comments or jokes.
 Exclusion or unfair treatment.
 Online abuse or inappropriate social media behaviour.
 Intimidation, threats or harassment.
 
 Any concerns raised will be taken seriously and addressed appropriately.

9. Accessibility and Inclusion

SAC will aim to make activities and facilities as accessible and inclusive as reasonably possible.
 
 The club will:
 Consider accessibility needs when planning activities.
 Support athletes and volunteers with additional needs where possible.
 Work collaboratively with parents/guardians and support persons where appropriate.
 Encourage participation from individuals of different abilities, backgrounds and experiences.

10. Reporting Concerns and Complaints

Members who experience or witness discrimination, bullying or harassment should report concerns to a coach, committee member, Children’s Officer or designated contact person.
 
 The club will:
 Treat complaints seriously and sensitively.
 Investigate concerns fairly and promptly.
 Respect confidentiality where possible.
 Ensure individuals raising concerns are not subjected to retaliation or victimisation.

11. Education and Awareness

SAC will promote awareness and understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion through training, communication and club culture.
 
 The club will encourage coaches and volunteers to undertake relevant training where appropriate, including safeguarding, inclusion and anti-bullying awareness.

12. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the committee, or sooner if required due to changes in legislation, Athletics Ireland guidance or club activities.
 
 Feedback from members, volunteers, parents/guardians and coaches will help inform future improvements and ensure the club remains inclusive and welcoming.

13. Approval

This policy was approved by Shannon Athletic Club Committee.

 | Chairperson signature |  
 | Secretary signature |  
 | Date |  

 Shannon Athletic Club - Equality and Diversity Policy