Everyone who works with children and/or at risk adults is in a position of trust. No one in a position of trust should encourage a physically or emotionally dependent relationship to develop between themselves and anyone in their care, whether that be with a child or an at risk adult.
Physical contact, however well-intentioned, may be misinterpreted; however, a no-touch approach for adults who work with children, or other adults, is often impractical.
Everyone is different and every situation is unique, therefore parkrun volunteers should take a common-sense approach, maintain a self-awareness, and judge what is appropriate based on the needs of the individual situation.
There could be occasions when parkrunners, particularly at risk adults and children, become overly familiar with or dependent on, volunteers or other adult parkrunners.
This can put both parties in a compromising position.
All adults should be aware of the possibility that a child or at risk adult may become dependent, emotionally attached or overly familiar. Adult volunteers should take steps to address the issue should they deem that such behaviour is becoming inappropriate. Should this happen, we would advise the person to alert the Run Director who can then speak with the child’s parents/adult to inform them of the situation. It is essential that the Safeguarding Reporting Process is followed in these situations.
We expect everyone who takes part in parkrun in any capacity to adhere to our codes of conduct at all times. Failure to do so could result in safeguarding incidents being raised and appropriate actions being taken.