Chelmsford YHA Group

Chelmsford YHA Group

Useful Information for Members

Guidelines for Activities and Hostelling Trips

Guidelines

The Chelmsford and District YHA Local Group (the "Group") operates within the framework of its constitution, which is available to all members on request.

These guidelines are for the purpose of the safe and smooth running of the Group and failure to comply may cause you to be unwelcome at future Group events.

Safety

You accept that activities of the Group can be dangerous. Participation in the Group’s activities at any time is voluntary and entirely at your own risk. The Group will not be held responsible for any accident, injury or loss occurring as a result of any Group event, or in connection with travel to any such event, however caused. There is no provision of qualified instruction or supervision in relation to any Group activity.

No individual person has responsibility for the safety or actions of any person taking part in any Group event and a trip co-ordinator’s responsibilities are limited to making arrangements for the Group meals and accommodation.

On Group trips members are expected to leave word at the Group accommodation of their plans for the day, in particular their expected time of return and means of transport. When country walks are undertaken it is preferred that a route card is left. Individuals must make every effort to remain with group. If leaving the group for any reason, make sure others are aware. It is suggested that emergency contact details are carried in the top pocket of your rucksack.

You are reminded of the need to assess the risks inherent in any activities you plan and to consider if all potential participants are capable of completing the proposed activity.

You are reminded of the need to ensure you are suitably equipped for any Group activity you take part in and to consider if you are capable of safely completing that activity. A suggested kit list for hostelling trips is available.

You are also advised to make sure you are carrying a first aid kit in case of injury and to carry a mobile phone in case of emergencies.

Members are expected to follow the Countryside Code and Mountain Safety Advice when appropriate.

Look after others - see that they don't get lost, cold, hungry, thirsty, or left behind while there is something you can do about it.

If involved in catering for the Group, remember to wash hands, store food correctly, and use food in a timely and hygienic manner. Food preparation areas should be cleaned regularly and as appropriate prior to, during and after food preparation. Be wary of the risks of cuts, scalds, burns & abrasions in the kitchen.

If you have any severe allergies, ensure other members of the group are aware and can find any emergency medication you may need.

Trip Organisation

If you have any questions about forthcoming events, contact the organiser whose name is given with the programme details.

Trip co-ordinators are expected to make adequate arrangements for accommodation and meals, and to co-ordinate lift-sharing or other transport arrangements. Guidelines on "How to run a Trip" are available from committee members. Members are reminded that they are expected to do hostel chores and a fair share of meal preparation and cleaning-up. Group members are expected to co-operate with trip co-ordinators; to complete tasks allotted to them and to notify the co-ordinator if this is not possible.

Payments

To book a place on a trip, please pay the deposit amount shown in the programme. Note that we cannot hold beds for you unless the deposit is paid, and deposits are non-returnable.

Where a total cost for a trip is quoted, this is an approximate guide for the convenience of members only, and does not constitute a package.

Any balance due should be paid promptly.

Insurance

Any person taking part in any Group activity is advised to make their own arrangements for any insurance cover desired (for example, consider cover for cancellation, personal accident, personal liability and personal belongings).

Any transport sharing arrangements made are deemed to be between individuals, and it is the responsibility of the individual participant to satisfy him or herself that the driver has appropriate insurance cover.

The Group holds insurance for Public Liability.

Other important information

Please also see our Privacy Notice and Data Protection Policy, Policy for Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults and Coronavirus (COVID-19) Advice.

Please send any comments on these pages to Dave Plummer