Parent Information & Safeguarding

Last reviewed: 7/6/2026
Next review due:7/6/2029
Organisation: ME Academy
Website: me-academy.co.uk
Email: info@me-academy.co.uk
Phone: 07500863556
Primary coaching location: Ferguslie Cricket Club, 36 Corsebar Road, Paisley, PA2 9PS

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At ME Academy, the safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of every child is our first priority. We aim to provide a positive, inclusive and professionally managed cricket coaching environment in which young players can develop their skills, confidence and love of the game.

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This page explains the practical information parents and guardians need before booking a camp, coaching session or ME Academy activity. It also explains how we approach safeguarding, child wellbeing, supervision, first aid, conduct, photography, data protection and parental communication.

This page should be read together with our booking terms, privacy notice, cancellation policy and any event-specific information provided at the time of booking.

 

1. Key Contacts

For general enquiries, bookings or practical questions, please contact:

General enquiries
Name: Hannah English
Email: info@me-academy.co.uk
 

Lead coach
Name: Michael English
Email: info@me-academy.co.uk
 

Child Wellbeing and Protection Officer / Safeguarding Lead
Name: Michael English
Email: info@me-academy.co.uk

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2. Emergency and Child Protection Contacts

If a child is in immediate danger, parents, carers, staff, coaches, volunteers or members of the public should contact the emergency services immediately.

Emergency: 999
Police Scotland non-emergency: 101

For activities taking place in Renfrewshire, the current published child protection contact details are:

Renfrewshire Social Work: 0300 300 1199
Evenings and weekends: 0300 343 1505
Police Scotland non-emergency: 101

These details should be checked regularly and updated where required.

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3. Who This Information Applies To

This page applies to all ME Academy activities, including:

• Holiday cricket camps

• One-to-one coaching

• Small-group coaching

• School or club coaching sessions

• Masterclasses, workshops and cricket development sessions

• Any other activity delivered by, on behalf of, or in partnership with ME Academy

In this page, “child”, “young person”, “player” or “participant” means any young person attending an ME Academy activity. Where participants are aged 18 or over, ME Academy will apply appropriate welfare, safety and conduct procedures, and will adapt safeguarding processes where required by law or good practice.

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4. Our Commitment to Children and Young People

ME Academy is committed to:

• placing the safety and wellbeing of children first;

• treating every child with dignity, fairness and respect;

• creating a positive cricket environment that is challenging, enjoyable and age-appropriate;

• listening to children and taking their views seriously;

• responding promptly and appropriately to concerns;

• maintaining clear standards of behaviour for players, parents, coaches and volunteers;

• ensuring coaching is delivered by suitable people with appropriate experience, checks and training;

• keeping appropriate records of bookings, attendance, incidents, injuries and safeguarding concerns;

• working with parents, carers, venues, clubs, schools, statutory agencies and governing bodies where required.

ME Academy does not tolerate abuse, neglect, bullying, harassment, discrimination, intimidation, grooming, sexual misconduct, poor practice or any conduct that places a child at risk of harm.

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5. Age Range and Suitability

ME Academy activities are suitable for children aged:

5 - 18

Some events may have different age ranges depending on the format, venue, staffing, equipment and level of cricket involved. The applicable age range will be stated on the event page or booking form.

ME Academy sessions are generally suitable for:

• beginners;

• club players;

• school players;

• district, pathway or performance players;

• children who want to improve their batting, bowling, fielding, wicketkeeping, confidence and understanding of the game.

ME Academy reserves the right to contact a parent before confirming attendance where we need more information to assess whether the activity is suitable for the child.

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6. Inclusion and Additional Support Needs

ME Academy aims to be inclusive and welcoming. We will make reasonable efforts to support children with additional needs, medical conditions, disabilities, allergies, neurodiversity, anxiety, confidence issues or other support requirements.

Parents must tell us about any relevant needs before the activity starts so that we can consider appropriate support, adjustments, staffing, communication and safety arrangements.

Please provide details of:

• medical conditions;

• allergies;

• medication;

• asthma inhalers or EpiPens;

• injury history;

• additional support needs;

• communication needs;

• behavioural support needs;

• relevant school or club support arrangements;

• anything likely to affect safe participation.

ME Academy is a cricket coaching provider and is not a specialist medical, childcare or therapeutic service. Where a child requires a level of support that we cannot safely or reasonably provide, we will discuss this with the parent or guardian before the activity.

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7. Booking, Parental Consent and Emergency Information

A child may only attend an ME Academy activity where a parent or legal guardian has completed the required booking, consent and emergency contact information.

By booking, the parent or guardian confirms that:

• they have parental responsibility or authority to book the child onto the activity;

• all information provided is accurate and up to date;

• they will update ME Academy if anything changes before or during the activity;

• they consent to their child taking part in cricket coaching and related activities;

• they understand that cricket and physical activity involve ordinary sporting risks;

• they will provide emergency contact details and remain contactable during the activity;

• they will provide all relevant medical, allergy and support information;

• they will ensure the child brings suitable clothing, food, drink, medication and equipment.

ME Academy may refuse attendance, pause participation or contact a parent for collection where required for safety, welfare, behaviour, medical or safeguarding reasons.

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8. Safeguarding and Child Wellbeing

ME Academy treats safeguarding and child wellbeing as a central part of its responsibilities.

All coaches, assistants, volunteers and other adults involved in ME Academy activities must act in a way that protects children from harm and promotes their wellbeing.

ME Academy expects all adults working with children to:

• behave professionally and appropriately;

• maintain safe boundaries;

• avoid unnecessary one-to-one isolation with children;

• use positive and respectful communication;

• avoid humiliating, threatening, aggressive or inappropriate behaviour;

• report concerns promptly;

• follow ME Academy policies and procedures;

• cooperate with statutory agencies, venues, schools, clubs and governing bodies where required.

 

9. Safer Recruitment, PVG and Suitability

All individuals carrying out regulated roles with children on behalf of ME Academy must meet the relevant legal and safeguarding requirements before carrying out that role.

This may include:

• PVG Scheme membership where legally required;

• identity checks;

• reference checks;

• role suitability checks;

• safeguarding or child wellbeing training;

• first aid training where applicable;

• code of conduct acceptance;

• review of relevant qualifications and experience.

PVG position: All ME Academy coaches will be PVG approved

First aid position: First Aid Level 1

Coach qualification position: ICC Level 2

ME Academy will not knowingly permit a barred, unsuitable or uncleared person to carry out a regulated role with children.

Where ME Academy becomes aware of harmful behaviour, serious poor practice or a safeguarding allegation involving an adult working with children, ME Academy will take appropriate action, which may include removal from duties, referral to statutory agencies, referral to Disclosure Scotland where required, referral to a governing body, and cooperation with any investigation.

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10. Coach-to-Player Ratios and Supervision

ME Academy aims to maintain appropriate supervision at all times.

Our usual coach-to-player ratio is:

1 / 8 particpants

Ratios may vary depending on the venue, age group, format, hardball or softball activity, weather, risk assessment, ability level and additional support needs.

ME Academy will consider the following when planning supervision:

• age and number of children;

• nature of the activity;

• venue layout;

• use of hardball or softball;

• weather;

• toilet and changing arrangements;

• medical needs;

• player experience and ability;

• number of coaches, assistants and volunteers;

• any additional support requirements.

Children must remain within agreed activity areas unless given permission by a coach. Parents must ensure children understand that they must not leave the venue or session without permission.

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11. Drop-Off, Registration and Collection

Parents and guardians are responsible for ensuring children arrive safely and are collected safely.

Drop-off time: 8:50 - 9:00
Collection time: 15:00
Venue: Ferguslie Cricket Club, 36 Corsebar Road, Paisley, PA2 9PS
Registration point: Clubhouse
Collection point: Clubhouse

At registration, ME Academy may record attendance and confirm emergency information.

Children will only be released to:

• the parent or guardian who booked the child;

• another adult authorised by the parent or guardian;

• another person approved in writing by the parent or guardian;

• the child themselves, only where the parent has given written permission for independent departure.

If someone different is collecting your child, you must tell ME Academy in advance.

ME Academy may ask for identification if collection arrangements are unclear.

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12. Late Collection

Parents must collect children on time.

If a parent or authorised collector is delayed, they must contact ME Academy immediately on:

07500863556

If a child is not collected on time and ME Academy cannot contact the parent, guardian or emergency contacts, we will continue to supervise the child for a reasonable period. If the delay becomes significant or gives rise to a welfare concern, ME Academy may contact the relevant social work service or Police Scotland.

Late collection fees may apply where stated in the booking terms.

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13. Leaving the Venue Independently

Children may only leave the venue independently if the parent or guardian has given prior written permission.

Independent departure permission must include:

• the child’s full name;

• the activity date;

• the agreed departure time;

• confirmation that the parent accepts responsibility once the child leaves the ME Academy supervision area;

• the parent or guardian’s name and contact details.

ME Academy reserves the right not to allow independent departure if there is a safety, welfare, weather, medical or safeguarding concern.

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14. One-to-One Coaching

ME Academy may offer one-to-one cricket coaching by prior arrangement.

One-to-one coaching will be planned in a way that protects both the child and coach. Sessions should take place in an open, observable and appropriate coaching environment.

The following principles apply:

• parents should know the time, venue and purpose of the session;

• parents should remain at the venue or be contactable throughout, unless otherwise agreed;

• coaching should take place where the coach and child are visible to others where reasonably practicable;

• physical contact should be avoided unless necessary for safety, first aid or clearly explained technical coaching;

• any necessary technical demonstration must be appropriate, brief and professional;

• the coach must not enter into inappropriate personal, private or secret communication with the child;

• transport by the coach should not be provided unless separately agreed in writing and risk assessed;

• any concern about one-to-one coaching should be reported immediately.

Parent attendance requirement for one-to-one sessions: Not required

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15. Physical Contact and Technical Coaching

Cricket coaching may involve demonstrations, technical feedback and correction of movement patterns. ME Academy coaches must ensure any physical contact is:

• necessary;

• appropriate to the activity;

• explained where possible;

• limited in duration;

• respectful;

• not secretive;

• never sexual, humiliating or unnecessary.

A child has the right to say if they are uncomfortable. Coaches must listen and adapt their approach.

Physical contact may also occur where required to prevent injury, provide first aid, respond to an emergency or protect a child or another person from harm.

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16. Toilets, Changing and Personal Care

Parents should ensure children arrive changed and ready to participate where possible.

Where changing rooms or toilets are used:

• children should be given privacy;

• adults should avoid being alone with a child in a toilet or changing area;

• coaches should not enter changing areas unless necessary for safety, behaviour, welfare or emergency reasons;

• where adult entry is necessary, it should be done appropriately and, where practicable, with another adult present or nearby;

• mobile phones, cameras or recording devices must not be used in changing areas or toilets;

• children should report any concern immediately to a coach or trusted adult.

ME Academy does not provide personal care unless expressly agreed in advance as part of a support plan.

Venue toilet/changing arrangements: Clubhouse

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17. Behaviour Expectations for Players

All players are expected to:

• listen to coaches;

• follow safety instructions;

• treat others with respect;

• use appropriate language;

• play fairly;

• encourage teammates;

• respect the venue and equipment;

• tell a coach if they are hurt, worried, upset or uncomfortable;

• remain within agreed areas;

• avoid bullying, discrimination, intimidation or aggressive behaviour.

ME Academy may speak to a player, contact parents, pause participation or require collection where behaviour creates a risk to the child, other children, staff, the venue or the quality of the activity.

Serious or repeated behaviour concerns may result in removal from the activity without refund, subject to the booking terms and the circumstances.

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18. Behaviour Expectations for Parents and Spectators

Parents, guardians and spectators are expected to:

• communicate respectfully with coaches, children, other parents and venue staff;

• support positive participation;

• avoid coaching from the side in a way that confuses or pressures children;

• respect selection, grouping, safety and coaching decisions;

• raise concerns calmly and appropriately;

• avoid abusive, threatening, discriminatory or intimidating conduct;

• follow venue rules;

• avoid photographing or filming other children without permission.

ME Academy may ask a parent, guardian or spectator to leave the venue where their behaviour is inappropriate, unsafe or disruptive.

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19. Bullying, Discrimination and Peer-on-Peer Harm

ME Academy does not tolerate bullying, harassment, discrimination, victimisation, intimidation, abusive behaviour or peer-on-peer harm.

This includes conduct based on:

• age;

• sex;

• race;

• religion or belief;

• disability;

• sexual orientation;

• gender reassignment;

• nationality;

• social background;

• cricketing ability;

• appearance;

• any other personal characteristic.

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Bullying or peer-on-peer harm may include:

• name-calling;

• exclusion;

• threats;

• intimidation;

• physical aggression;

• humiliation;

• online abuse;

• sharing images without consent;

• sexualised comments or behaviour;

• pressuring another child;

• damaging property.

ME Academy will take concerns seriously, speak to those involved where appropriate, contact parents where required, record concerns and take proportionate action. Where a concern may indicate significant harm, criminal conduct or a child protection issue, ME Academy will refer the matter to the appropriate statutory agency.

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20. Safeguarding Concerns During an ME Academy Activity

A safeguarding concern may involve:

• something a child says;

• something a child does;

• an injury or pattern of injuries;

• a change in behaviour;

• an adult’s behaviour towards a child;

• a child’s behaviour towards another child;

• online communication;

• bullying, grooming, exploitation or coercion;

• sexualised behaviour;

• neglect;

• physical, emotional or sexual abuse;

• unsafe home circumstances;

• any other concern that a child may be at risk of harm.

If a parent, child, coach, volunteer or member of the public has a safeguarding concern, they should report it as soon as possible to:

ME Academy Safeguarding Lead: Michael English

If the concern is urgent or a child is in immediate danger, contact the emergency services directly.

No person will be criticised or penalised for raising a genuine concern in good faith.

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21. How ME Academy Responds to a Child Protection Concern

Where ME Academy becomes aware of a child protection concern, we will act promptly and proportionately.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

• listening to the child or person raising the concern;

• making a written record;

• informing the Safeguarding Lead;

• contacting the child’s parent or guardian, unless doing so could place the child at further risk;

• contacting social work services;

• contacting Police Scotland;

• seeking safeguarding advice from an appropriate governing body or safeguarding organisation;

• removing an adult or child from an activity where necessary for immediate safety;

• preserving relevant records;

• cooperating with any statutory agency or governing-body process.

ME Academy will not attempt to investigate serious child protection concerns itself. Investigations into suspected abuse, criminal conduct or significant harm are matters for statutory agencies.

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22. If a Child Makes a Disclosure

If a child tells a coach, volunteer or staff member something that suggests they may be at risk of harm, ME Academy will respond carefully.

The adult should:

• listen calmly;

• reassure the child that they have done the right thing by speaking;

• avoid asking leading, probing or speculative questions;

• avoid promising secrecy;

• explain that information may need to be shared with people who can help keep the child safe;

• record the child’s words as accurately as possible;

• report the matter promptly to the Safeguarding Lead or appropriate statutory agency.

Parents should understand that confidentiality cannot be promised where a child’s safety or wellbeing may be at risk.

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23. Allegations or Concerns About an Adult

Any allegation or concern involving a coach, assistant, volunteer, parent, spectator, venue staff member or other adult will be taken seriously.

This includes concerns about:

• inappropriate communication;

• unnecessary physical contact;

• emotional abuse or humiliation;

• bullying or intimidation;

• grooming behaviour;

• sexual misconduct;

• discriminatory behaviour;

• unsafe coaching practice;

• breach of safeguarding procedures;

• failure to report concerns.

ME Academy may take immediate protective action before a matter is fully resolved. This may include removing the adult from activity, restricting their duties, contacting statutory agencies, contacting Disclosure Scotland where required, contacting a governing body, contacting a venue or school, and preserving records.

ME Academy will aim to handle such matters fairly, confidentially and in accordance with child protection requirements.

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24. First Aid, Illness and Injury

ME Academy aims to manage illness and injury promptly and responsibly.

First aid provision: Michael English
First aid location: RAH 
Nearest AED, if known: Clubhouse
Nearest hospital / urgent care, if relevant: RAH

Parents must tell ME Academy about any medical conditions, allergies, injuries or medication before the activity starts.

If a child becomes unwell or injured, ME Academy may:

• provide basic first aid within the competence of the available first aider;

• remove the child from activity;

• contact the parent or guardian;

• contact the emergency contact;

• contact emergency services where required;

• record the incident;

• ask the parent to collect the child;

• require medical clearance before the child returns to activity, where appropriate.

In an emergency, ME Academy will act in the child’s best interests and may seek urgent medical assistance.

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25. Medication

Parents must provide clear written instructions for any medication a child may need during an activity.

Medication should be:

• clearly labelled;

• in date;

• provided in original packaging where possible;

• handed to the lead coach or agreed adult at registration, unless the child is required to carry it personally;

• accompanied by written instructions.

Medication policy: [INSERT EXACT POLICY]

Children who carry inhalers, EpiPens or other emergency medication should know where it is and how to access it. Parents should tell ME Academy whether the child can self-administer medication or needs adult support.

ME Academy staff and coaches are not medical professionals. Any medication support must be agreed in advance.

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26. Allergies and Food

Parents must tell ME Academy about all allergies, intolerances and dietary requirements before attendance.

Children should bring:

• packed lunch, unless otherwise stated;

• snacks;

• a refillable water bottle;

• any required medication;

• any allergy treatment required.

Food arrangements: [INSERT DETAILS]
Nut policy: [INSERT POLICY]
Lunch arrangements: [INSERT DETAILS]

ME Academy cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment unless expressly stated in writing.

Children must not share food unless permitted by a coach and safe to do so.

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27. Head Injuries and Concussion

Cricket involves moving balls, bats, running, fielding and physical activity. Although ME Academy will take reasonable steps to reduce risk, injuries can occur.

If a head injury or possible concussion is suspected, ME Academy will take a cautious approach. The player may be removed from activity, monitored, and the parent or guardian contacted.

Where symptoms are serious, unclear or concerning, emergency medical advice may be sought.

ME Academy’s position is:

If in doubt, the player sits out.

A child should not return to cricket or physical activity after a suspected concussion unless it is safe and appropriate to do so. Parents may be asked to obtain medical advice or clearance before the child returns.

The UK-wide grassroots concussion guidance and sportscotland’s Scottish sports concussion guidance both emphasise recognising and managing concussion safely from injury through to return to sport. 

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28. Cricket Equipment, Hardball and Protective Kit

The type of cricket activity will depend on the age, ability, venue, coaching aims and risk assessment.

ME Academy may use:

• tennis balls;

• incrediballs;

• softballs;

• hardballs;

• bowling machines;

• cricket nets;

• bats;

• stumps;

• cones;

• catching equipment;

• fielding aids;

• other cricket training equipment.

Hardball policy: Hardball may be used when necessary

Where hardball cricket is used, ME Academy will consider:

• age;

• experience;

• ability;

• protective equipment;

• venue safety;

• group size;

• coaching supervision;

• parent information;

• player confidence;

• weather and surface conditions.

Players must not take part in hardball cricket unless the coach considers it appropriate and safe in the circumstances.

Where protective kit is required, players must wear it properly. This may include helmet, pads, gloves, abdominal guard, thigh guard or other appropriate equipment.

Protective kit provided by ME Academy: Not Guaranteed
Protective kit parents must provide: Protective Cricket Kit if possible

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29. Weather, Heat, Rain and Unsafe Conditions

ME Academy activities take place outdoors and may be affected by weather.

Parents should ensure children bring suitable clothing, including:

• sports clothing;

• trainers or cricket shoes;

• waterproof jacket;

• warm layer;

• sun cream;

• hat or cap;

• water bottle.

In hot weather, ME Academy may increase water breaks, reduce intensity, move into shade or adapt activity.

In rain or poor weather, ME Academy may adapt sessions, use covered areas, pause activity or move indoors where available.

ME Academy may cancel, postpone, relocate or modify an activity where weather, ground conditions, lightning, heat, poor visibility or other factors make it unsafe.

Wet weather plan: Clubhouse for indoor cricket development
Cancellation communication method: Email and phone 

 

30. Transport

Unless expressly agreed in writing, ME Academy does not provide transport to or from activities.

Parents are responsible for travel arrangements, drop-off and collection.

A coach, staff member or volunteer should not transport a child alone unless this has been specifically agreed, risk assessed and authorised in writing by the parent and ME Academy.

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31. Photography, Video and Social Media

ME Academy may use photography or video for coaching, promotional, website, social media or safeguarding purposes, but only in accordance with consent and appropriate safeguarding practice.

Parents will be asked whether they consent to their child being photographed or filmed.

Consent options may include:

• no photography or filming;

• photography for internal coaching use only;

• photography for website/social media;

• video for technical coaching analysis;

• group photos only;

• no names to be used;

• first name only;

• other restrictions specified by the parent.

ME Academy will not knowingly publish a child’s full name with an image unless specific consent has been obtained.

Parents and spectators must not photograph or film other children without permission.

Children must not take photos or videos of other children during ME Academy activities without coach permission.

Consent can be withdrawn for future use by contacting ME Academy. Parents should understand that it may not always be possible to fully remove images already published, shared or printed before withdrawal, but ME Academy will take reasonable steps where practicable.

Photography consent process: Consent Form consent requested

 

32. Mobile Phones and Digital Communication

Children may bring mobile phones at the parent’s discretion, but phones remain the child’s responsibility.

During coaching time, phones should be kept away unless a coach gives permission.

Children must not:

• photograph or film others without permission;

• use phones in toilets or changing areas;

• send abusive, discriminatory or inappropriate messages;

• post content that identifies or embarrasses another child;

• use phones in a way that disrupts the session.

Coaches should not engage in private, personal or secret communication with children.

Where digital communication is necessary, communication should normally be sent to the parent or guardian, or include the parent or guardian.

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33. Data Protection and Privacy

ME Academy collects and uses personal information so that we can manage bookings, deliver coaching, protect children, communicate with parents, respond to incidents and meet legal or safeguarding responsibilities.

Information we may collect includes:

• parent or guardian name;

• child name;

• child age and date of birth;

• contact details;

• emergency contacts;

• medical information;

• allergy information;

• additional support information;

• attendance records;

• payment and booking information;

• photography consent;

• incident, accident or safeguarding records;

• correspondence with parents.

Some information, such as medical, allergy, disability or safeguarding information, may be sensitive. ME Academy will handle such information carefully, limit access to those who need it, and store it securely.

ME Academy may share relevant information where necessary with:

• coaches or staff involved in the activity;

• venue staff, where required for safety;

• schools or clubs, where the activity is delivered in partnership;

• medical professionals;

• emergency services;

• social work services;

• Police Scotland;

• safeguarding bodies;

• insurers;

• legal advisers;

• booking or payment platforms;

• governing bodies, where required.

ME Academy will not sell children’s personal information.

The Information Commissioner’s Office provides specific guidance for organisations handling children’s personal information under the UK GDPR, including child-specific considerations. 

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34. Complaints

ME Academy aims to deal with concerns fairly, promptly and professionally.

Complaints contact: Hannah English
Email: info@me-academy.co.uk

A complaint should include:

• parent name;

• child name;

• event or session date;

• details of the concern;

• names of any relevant people;

• what outcome the parent is seeking.

ME Academy will aim to acknowledge complaints within:

48 hours

ME Academy will aim to respond substantively within:

72 hours

Safeguarding concerns should not wait for the complaints process. If a child may be at risk, the safeguarding procedure should be followed immediately.

35. Refunds, Cancellations and Changes

Refunds, cancellations and changes are governed by the terms shown at the time of booking.

Parent cancellation policy: 48 hours before
ME Academy cancellation policy: 48 hours before
Illness policy: Full refund
Weather cancellation policy: Full refund

If ME Academy cancels an activity, parents will be offered the remedy stated in the booking terms, which may include a refund, transfer, credit or rescheduled session.

ME Academy is not responsible for travel costs, kit purchases, lost earnings or other indirect costs unless expressly stated in the booking terms or required by law.

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36. Insurance

ME Academy maintains insurance appropriate to its activities.

Public liability insurance provider: Sport
Cover level: Comprehensive Sports Insurance
Expiry date: [INSERT DATE]

Parents may request confirmation of insurance by contacting:

info@me-academy.co.uk

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What age is ME Academy for?

ME Academy activities are usually for children aged 5-18. Some events may have different age ranges, which will be shown on the booking page.

Does my child need cricket experience?

No, unless the event states otherwise. ME Academy welcomes players with different levels of experience. Where possible, players are grouped by age, confidence and ability so that they can learn at an appropriate level.

Is ME Academy suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners will be supported with clear coaching, simple progressions and a positive learning environment.

Is ME Academy suitable for club, district or pathway players?

Yes. More experienced players can be challenged through technical coaching, tactical work, match scenarios, skill-specific drills and individual feedback.

Who leads the coaching?

ME Academy sessions are led by: Michael English — Scotland international cricketer, professional cricketer and qualified PE teacher.

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Are coaches PVG checked?

All individuals carrying out regulated roles with children on behalf of ME Academy meet the relevant legal and safeguarding requirements.

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Are coaches first aid trained?

Where first aid is required, ME Academy will act within the competence of the available first aider and will contact parents or emergency services where appropriate.

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What should my child bring?

Unless told otherwise, children should bring:

• sports clothing;

• trainers or cricket shoes;

• waterproof jacket;

• warm layer;

• sun cream;

• hat or cap;

• packed lunch;

• snacks;

• refillable water bottle;

• cricket kit, if they have it;

• medication, inhalers or EpiPens, if required.

Event-specific kit requirements will be provided before the activity.

Does my child need their own cricket kit?

Players may bring their own cricket kit if they have it. 

Will hardball cricket be used?

Hardball cricket may be used where it is appropriate for the age, ability and experience of the players, and where the coach is satisfied that suitable safety arrangements and protective equipment are in place. If hardball cricket is not suitable for a player or group, alternative balls and activities may be used.

What happens if my child does not feel confident?

ME Academy aims to build confidence in a positive and supportive way. Children are encouraged to try, learn and improve, but they will not be humiliated or pressured inappropriately. If your child is nervous, please tell us before the session so that we can support them.

Can my child attend with a friend?

Yes, where places are available. Parents should book each child separately.

You may tell us the name of a friend your child would like to be grouped with, but grouping cannot always be guaranteed.

What happens if it rains?

ME Academy may adapt the session, use covered areas, pause activity, move indoors if available or cancel/postpone if conditions are unsafe.

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What happens in hot weather?

Children should bring sun cream, a hat and plenty of water. ME Academy may increase breaks, reduce intensity, move into shade or change activities where appropriate.

Does my child need lunch?

For full-day camps, children will need a packed lunch, snacks and a water bottle.

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Can parents stay and watch?

Parents may watch from agreed spectator areas where the venue allows. Parents must not enter coaching areas unless invited by a coach or required for a welfare reason.

Can my child leave early?

Yes, but parents must tell ME Academy in advance where possible. Early collection must be arranged with the lead coach and the child must be signed out by the parent or authorised adult.

Can my child walk home alone?

Only if the parent or guardian has given written permission in advance. ME Academy may refuse independent departure if there is a safety, welfare, weather or safeguarding concern.

What if I am late collecting my child?

Please contact ME Academy immediately on 07500863556. If we cannot contact you or your emergency contacts, and the delay creates a welfare concern, we may contact social work services or Police Scotland.

What happens if my child is injured?

ME Academy will provide appropriate first aid within the competence of the available first aider, contact the parent or guardian where necessary, and contact emergency services if required. An incident or accident record may be completed.

What happens if my child has a head injury?

ME Academy will take a cautious approach. If a head injury or possible concussion is suspected, the child may be removed from activity and the parent contacted. Emergency medical advice may be sought where appropriate. The child should not return to activity unless it is safe to do so.

What if my child has asthma, allergies or medication?

Parents must provide full details before attendance. Children should bring required medication, including inhalers or EpiPens. Medication must be clearly labelled and accompanied by written instructions.

Can ME Academy administer medication?

ME Academy staff are not medical professionals. Medication support must be agreed in advance. Emergency medication, such as inhalers or EpiPens, should be discussed with ME Academy before the activity.

What if my child has additional support needs?

Please tell us before booking or before the activity starts. We will discuss reasonable adjustments and consider how we can support your child safely and positively.

Will photos or videos be taken?

Only in accordance with consent and safeguarding arrangements. Parents will be asked about photography and video consent. Parents and spectators must not photograph or film other children without permission.

Can children use phones during the camp?

Phones should be kept away during coaching. Children must not use phones in toilets or changing areas, must not photograph or film others without permission, and must not use phones in a way that disrupts the session or affects another child’s wellbeing.

What behaviour is expected?

Children are expected to listen, follow safety instructions, respect others, play fairly and tell a coach if they are hurt, worried or uncomfortable.

Bullying, discrimination, aggression, abusive language or unsafe behaviour may result in parents being contacted and the child being removed from activity.

What happens if another child upsets or bullies my child?

Please tell the lead coach or Safeguarding Lead as soon as possible. ME Academy will take the concern seriously, speak to those involved where appropriate, contact parents where required, and take action to protect children’s wellbeing.

Will you tell parents about every concern?

ME Academy will usually involve parents where it is appropriate to do so. However, if contacting a parent could place a child at further risk, interfere with a statutory process or compromise a child protection response, ME Academy may seek advice from social work, Police Scotland or an appropriate safeguarding body before doing so.

How long do you keep information?

ME Academy keeps personal information only for as long as reasonably necessary for booking, coaching, safeguarding, legal, insurance, accounting and administration purposes. Safeguarding and incident records may need to be kept for longer than ordinary booking records.

 

Parent Checklist Before Attending

Before your child attends, please make sure:

• the booking is complete;

• emergency contacts are correct;

• medical and allergy information has been provided;

• your child has lunch, snacks and water;

• your child has suitable clothing for the weather;

• your child has medication, inhalers or EpiPens if needed;

• your child has cricket kit if required;

• you know the drop-off and collection location;

• you remain contactable throughout the activity;

• ME Academy has been told about any support needs, worries or relevant circumstances.

Final Safeguarding Statement

ME Academy is committed to creating a cricket environment where children are safe, respected, listened to and able to enjoy their sport.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. If you are worried about a child, a coach, a parent, a spectator, a volunteer or anything that happens at an ME Academy activity, please speak up. It is always better to raise a concern than to stay silent.