A collection of essential EDGA administrative documents laid out on a table in a park, including the Safeguarding Policy & Guidance booklet, a Club Welfare Checklist on a clipboard, and a Code of Conduct manual. A disc golf basket stands in the sunlit background, representing the commitment to player safety within Disc Golf England.

Safeguarding at the English Disc Golf Association (EDGA)

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. The English Disc Golf Association (EDGA) wants disc golf to feel safe, welcoming and enjoyable for every player, volunteer, official and spectator.

This page explains our safeguarding principles, how to raise a concern, and the standards we expect across disc golf activity in England.

Current safeguarding status

The English Disc Golf Association (EDGA) is in the process of formalising its safeguarding structure, policies and roles.

This page sets out our safeguarding principles, interim reporting routes, and expectations for behaviour. Named roles, formal policies and supporting documents will be published here once approved by the EDGA board.

What safeguarding means in disc golf

Safeguarding is about keeping people safe from harm, abuse and neglect.

In disc golf this includes:

  • Children and young people
  • Adults at risk
  • The behaviour of players, volunteers, officials and spectators
  • The culture around clubs, events and online spaces

Safeguarding covers how people are treated, how concerns are handled, and how EDGA activity is run.

Safeguarding applies to clubs, leagues, event organisers, tournament directors, coaches, volunteers, committee members and anyone acting in the name of EDGA.

Safeguarding policy and key documents

The English Disc Golf Association (EDGA) is developing a formal Safeguarding Policy. This will set out our principles, responsibilities and procedures.

Supporting guidance is also being prepared.

Planned documents include:

  • Safeguarding Policy – in development
  • Code of conduct for players, coaches and volunteers – in development
  • Photography and video guidance – in development
  • Safer recruitment and DBS guidance – in development

Draft documents will be published here once approved.

Reporting a safeguarding concern

If you are worried about someone’s safety or behaviour in disc golf, it is better to speak up than to stay silent. You do not need proof. Having a concern is enough.

Concerns may relate to:

  • The behaviour of a player, volunteer, coach, official or parent
  • Something you have seen or heard at a club or event
  • Online behaviour linked to disc golf activity
  • The welfare of a player or volunteer

How to raise a concern

If someone is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services.

For all other safeguarding or welfare concerns:

Concerns are handled sensitively. Information is shared only with those who need it so that appropriate action can be taken.

You can raise a concern even if it feels uncomfortable. Doing so helps keep the sport safe for everyone.

Guidance for clubs and organisers

Clubs, leagues and tournament directors play a central role in safeguarding.

EDGA will provide practical guidance and templates to support clubs as our safeguarding framework develops.

Club responsibilities

Clubs are expected to:

  • Nominate a Club Welfare Officer or named safeguarding contact
  • Align with EDGA safeguarding principles and published guidance
  • Follow safer recruitment steps for roles involving children or adults at risk
  • Use clear codes of conduct for players, parents and volunteers
  • Make reporting routes visible on websites, noticeboards and social media

Planned support from the English Disc Golf Association (EDGA)

EDGA plans to provide:

  • Template safeguarding policies and codes of conduct
  • Example role descriptions for Club Welfare Officers
  • Simple safeguarding checklists for events and leagues
  • Links to recommended training and external resources

Clubs are encouraged to contact EDGA for an informal discussion if they are unsure where to start. Asking early is always better than struggling in silence.

Wellbeing and support

People come to disc golf for exercise, time outdoors and connection with others. Clubs and events should support that experience, not undermine it.

Many people in our community live with health conditions, disability, caring responsibilities or mental health challenges. Reasonable adjustments are welcome and should be discussed openly.

Bullying, harassment and discrimination have no place in EDGA activity. These expectations apply now, regardless of formal policy status.

If something in disc golf is affecting your wellbeing, or you are worried about how someone else is being treated, you can raise this through the safeguarding routes described above.

Key safeguarding contacts

EDGA is currently finalising safeguarding roles and contact arrangements.

For now:

  • Safeguarding and welfare concerns: use the contact form and mark the message “Safeguarding”
  • General enquiries: use the contact form
  • Club Welfare Officers: provided locally by each club

Emergency situations should always be reported to emergency services.

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