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Code of Conduct

Rathgormack Ramblers Hill Walking Club Code of Conduct

This code of conduct sets clear expectations for all members of Rathgormack Ramblers Hill Walking Club to cultivate a positive, safe, and inclusive environment. By joining and participating in our club, you agree to abide by these guidelines.

Gear and Equipment

All members are expected to use appropriate gear and equipment for their activity. Walkers should bring with them the following essential items

Strong walking boots with good ankle support
Gaiters
A hooded waterproof coat and waterproof trousers
Plenty of warm clothing, including gloves and a hat. DO NOT WEAR JEANS
Sufficient liquids and food

The leader has the right to refuse anyone not adequately equipped for the walk.

Walkers should consider the following recommended items:

Relevant map
Compass
Whistle
Watch
Torch
First aid kit
Some form of personal ID and the name of someone who can be contacted in the event of an accident
Walking sticks are advisable for tough and steep terrain

Safety and Responsibility

Members are responsible for their own actions. Members are advised to select a walk that matches their fitness level. If a member is taking medication or suffering from any condition that might affect them on the walk, they must inform the walk leader before the walk starts. All members must follow the instructions of the leader at all times. If a member walks ahead of the leader, they are no longer considered to be part of the group and are responsible for their own actions and the actions of those who follow them. For everyone’s safety the group should stay together for the duration of the walk. A group should travel no faster than the speed of its slowest member. The leader may extend, curtail or alter the route due to extenuating circumstances. He/she sets the pace, and walkers are expected to follow at this pace. The Walk Registration Sheet will be completed by the walk leader at the beginning of each walk. Please ensure that your name is on it.

The committee of Rathgormack Ramblers Hill Walking club asserts that no walk leader can be held responsible for the welfare of individuals who ignore these rules.

Accidents should be reported to the walk leader immediately. Hillwalking is an activity that can be dangerous and may result in personal injury or death. Members must abide by any guidelines that may be set out by the club in accordance with Mountaineering Ireland’s advice and policies.

Voluntary Club Leaders

Club leaders are recruited from suitably skilled members of the club. They must lead by example and always put the welfare of everyone involved first and foremost. Prospective club leaders are encouraged to let the committee know their interest in taking on a leadership role and will try to facilitate necessary training for that role. Rathgormack Ramblers Hill Walking Club always needs new people willing and able to help out and will support and encourage anyone interested to progress in the necessary skills. All leaders should be fairly treated and respected for the tasks they are doing, and if you are being led you should behave according to their instructions to ensure your own safety and the safety of others.

Committee Members

Committee members are democratically elected members who accept their role within the committee structure to do the best possible job based upon the role description presented under their title. Committee members must be willing to operate in an impartial and transparent manner, always putting the best interest of the club first. Committee members must be adequately accessible to members of the club and must attend the relevant club activities to be able to perform their duties properly.

Respect and Inclusivity

Rathgormack Ramblers Hill Walking Club is an inclusive club and expects its members to treat each other with courtesy and respect, regardless of their experience level, background, or personal characteristics. We promote a positive environment, welcoming people of all ages, genders, races, religions, sexual orientations, and abilities. Sexist, racist, ageist, harassment, bullying or other discriminatory behaviour in words or actions is not tolerated. Any behaviour that marginalises, intimidates, or excludes others is unacceptable.

Alcohol and Substance Use

All club members, leaders and volunteers as part of this club shall follow the law when it comes to illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco and shall display leadership and good example. Club members, leaders or volunteers shall not present themselves at club walks or climbs while under the influence of alcohol or any other illegal/non-prescription drug.

Communication

Maintain open and honest communication with club members and leaders. Share any concerns, issues, or feedback constructively. All communication of an official nature within the club and between its members must be done in a recorded medium such as emails or over a club forum. If a member has concerns, they should raise the matter with the committee. Members should aim to actively participate in club activities and meetings, share knowledge and skills with others, fostering a supportive learning environment.

Handling Conflicts

Members should address conflicts or grievances respectfully and through appropriate channels, following the clubs complaints procedure if necessary.

Respect for the Environment and Local Communities

Car pooling to all walks is advised. Members are encouraged to park carefully and not to obstruct laneways, gates, traffic and/or access to forest areas etc. Access to the outdoors is fundamental to the activities of hillwalking. Much of our activity takes place on privately-owned land, due to the goodwill and tolerance of landowners. Club members are asked to recognise that each one of us shares in the responsibility to protect access by helping to maintain positive relations with landowners and the local community in the areas where we walk and climb. Many activities take place in sensitive natural environments, and it is important to minimise environmental impact. Members should keep within existing path lines where possible, avoid leaving litter, and follow any specific guidelines provided by the club or for the areas visited.

Social Media and Public Representation

Be mindful of the content shared on social media, ensuring it reflects positively on the club and respects the privacy of members. Members should obtain permission before sharing photos or videos of members, especially in public forums.

Note: Breaches of this code of conduct may result in disciplinary action, including warnings, suspension, or termination of club membership.

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