Official guidance on virtual coaching

Update - Tuesday 31 March: UKA today released the following statement, in collaboration with England Athletics and the other Home Countries Athletics Federations, relating to guidance on coaching (including virtual coaching) during the current coronavirus lockdown period:

The Home Country Athletics Federations along with UKA would like to clarify the guidance on coaching during this period of lockdown as a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

As a recap, all face-to-face activity such as club training sessions, events, competitions, club committee and face-to-face meetings, 1:1 coaching, athlete camps, running groups and social events are currently fully suspended until at least the end of May.

It is absolutely essential that all within the sport adhere to this suspension.

However, in response to queries we can confirm that insurance is still valid during this period for clubs, coaches, leaders and registered athletes engaging in virtual coaching, online guidance, E-learning and other digital and remote activities not requiring in-person attendance – however a risk assessment should be undertaken with reference to welfare and safeguarding guidelines and it is advised that coaches and leaders provide club welfare officers with an update on activities that take place in this format.

Of course, any activity must be balanced with adhering to the official guidance. We ask coaches, leaders and athletes to ensure they are always following official guidelines:

• Only leave your home when travelling for food, health reasons or essential work.
• No gatherings in public.
• One form of exercise a day outside such as a run, walk, or cycle. This should be done alone or only with people you live with. Stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people, ensuring you maintain this distance when overtaking and passing others whilst out running.
• Only to travel to essential work (if it cannot be done at home)

Click here to read the statement as published on UKA's website.