Programme Policies

Effective Date: 21 May 2026 | Last Updated: 21 May 2026 | Version: v1.0

Introduction

These Programme Policies apply to all Empowr CIC sessions, events, and activities — including drop-in sessions, lessons, courses, camps, advanced training, and the Kidz Skate Jam programme.

They exist to keep everyone safe, ensure sessions run smoothly, and make Empowr CIC a welcoming place for participants of all ages and abilities.

By booking or attending any Empowr CIC session, participants (and parents or guardians of under-18 participants) agree to these policies.

1. Protective Equipment

Protective equipment is mandatory at all sessions unless a specific programme explicitly states otherwise.

Required for all skating and board sport sessions:

• Helmet — correctly fitted and fastened throughout all activity
• Knee pads
• Elbow pads
• Wrist guards

Participants who arrive without the required equipment will not be permitted to join the session. This rule applies to all participants regardless of age, ability, or experience — no exceptions.

We may have limited loan equipment available at some venues. Contact us in advance if you need to borrow equipment. Loan equipment is provided as a courtesy and participants use it at their own risk.

Recommended additional equipment:

• Appropriate footwear (closed-toe, flat-soled shoes)
• Clothing that covers the knees and elbows

2. Arrival and Registration

• Arrive at least 5–10 minutes before your session starts
• Register with the session leader on arrival — do not begin skating before registration is complete
• For under-18 participants, a parent or guardian must sign in the participant with the session leader before leaving the venue (unless prior arrangements have been confirmed with us)

3. Session Rules

All participants must follow these rules at all times during sessions:

On the Skate Area

• Listen to and follow all instructions from coaches and session leaders immediately
• Do not enter or use any area that has been marked off or closed
• Take turns — do not drop in or start a run when another participant is still in the line of travel
• Fallen participants have priority — wait until they are clear before proceeding
• Do not sit, stand, or rest in areas where others are actively skating
• No skating under the influence of alcohol or drugs — any participant in this condition will be asked to leave immediately

General Conduct

• Treat all participants, coaches, staff, and bystanders with respect
• No aggressive behaviour, bullying, harassment, or discriminatory language — this includes in-person, online, and at events
• Do not use your phone while actively skating
• No food or drink on the skate area
• Litter must be placed in bins — help us look after the venues we use

Spectators

• Spectators must remain in designated spectator areas at all times
• Spectators who enter the skate area without permission will be asked to leave

4. Code of Conduct

Empowr CIC is built on the values of growth through action, community and belonging, and wellbeing as a way of life. We expect everyone who participates in or attends our sessions to reflect those values.

We will not tolerate:

• Physical aggression or threatening behaviour
• Verbal abuse, bullying, or harassment of any participant, coach, or staff member
• Discriminatory behaviour or language based on race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic
• Deliberate damage to equipment or venue property
• Behaviour that endangers others

Breaches of this code may result in:

• A verbal warning from the session leader
• Being asked to sit out for the remainder of the session
• Removal from the session without refund
• Suspension or permanent exclusion from future Empowr CIC programmes

We take a zero-tolerance approach to any behaviour that puts participants at risk or undermines the safety and inclusivity of our community.

5. Cancellations and Refunds

Cancellation by the Participant

• More than 48 hours before the session: Full refund or credit towards a future session
• Within 48 hours of the session: No refund (unless there are exceptional circumstances at our discretion)
• No-shows: No refund

Cancellation by Empowr CIC

If we need to cancel a session due to adverse weather, venue issues, coach illness, or any other reason, we will notify you as soon as possible and offer either a full refund or a credit towards a future session.

We are not liable for any travel costs or other expenses incurred as a result of a cancellation.

6. Programmes for Under-18 Participants

Supervision

• Under-16 participants must be accompanied to the venue by a parent or guardian
• Parents and guardians of under-16 participants must remain on site or within immediate reach for the duration of the session unless they have provided emergency contact details and confirmed drop-off arrangements with us in advance
• We operate appropriate coach-to-participant ratios to ensure the safety of younger participants

Safeguarding

Empowr CIC takes the welfare of children and young people very seriously. All coaches working with under-18 participants hold a valid DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. We follow safeguarding best practice in line with current legislation and guidance.

If you have a safeguarding concern, contact us at enquiries@empowrcic.org or speak directly to a session leader.

Medical Information

Parents and guardians must disclose any relevant medical information (including allergies, conditions, or medications) at the time of booking. This information is shared only with those who need it to keep the participant safe.

7. Kidz Skate Jam Membership

The Kidz Skate Jam programme operates a membership model. The following additional terms apply:

• Membership is personal and non-transferable
• Membership fees are payable in advance for the relevant period
• Members are expected to attend regularly — missed sessions are not carried over unless exceptional circumstances apply
• Membership may be suspended or cancelled if a member repeatedly breaches the Code of Conduct

8. Personal Property

Empowr CIC is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of personal property at sessions or events. Leave valuables at home where possible.

9. Photography and Media

Photography and video at sessions and events is subject to our Photography & Media Consent Policy, available at legalhub.pecuvate.com.

10. First Aid

At least one qualified first aider is present at all Empowr CIC sessions. In the event of an injury:

• Notify the session leader immediately
• Do not move an injured participant unless directed to do so by the first aider
• Where a serious injury occurs, the session leader will contact emergency services

By participating, you consent to basic first aid being administered in the event of an emergency.

11. Amendments

Empowr CIC reserves the right to update these Programme Policies at any time. The current version is always available at legalhub.pecuvate.com. Continued participation in our programmes following an update constitutes acceptance of the revised policies.

12. Contact Us

General enquiries: enquiries@empowrcic.org

Empowr CIC Crown House, 27 Old Gloucester Street London, WC1N 3AX