Stokesley Hockey Club Working Towards ClubMark Accreditation

Stokesley Hockey Club is currently working towards achieving England Hockey ClubMark accreditation as part of its ongoing commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and sustainable environment for hockey within the local community.

ClubMark is England Hockey’s nationally recognised club accreditation scheme, designed to ensure clubs meet high standards of governance, safeguarding, welfare, coaching, equality and club management. It helps clubs demonstrate that the appropriate policies, procedures and operating standards are in place to support players, volunteers and members at all levels of the game.

For Stokesley Hockey Club, the process is about much more than accreditation alone. It is an opportunity to review and strengthen the way the club operates, ensuring it continues to provide the best possible environment for current and future members.

As part of the ClubMark journey, the club has been developing and reviewing a wide range of policies and procedures covering areas such as:

• Safeguarding and welfare

• Equality, diversity and inclusion

• Concussion and injury reporting

• Photography and filming

• Codes of conduct

• Privacy and data protection

• Dispute resolution

• Volunteer and club governance

The process also encourages clubs to think strategically about their future development, including membership growth, coaching development, volunteer recruitment and

strengthening community connections.

England Hockey describes ClubMark as “a tool and not a task”, encouraging clubs to showcase the fantastic work already taking place within grassroots hockey. Many clubs already meet or exceed the standards required, and the accreditation process provides an opportunity to formally evidence this through the ClubMark system.

For Stokesley Hockey Club, achieving ClubMark status would demonstrate the club’s commitment to:

• Providing a welcoming and inclusive environment

• Supporting safe participation in hockey

• Developing players, coaches and volunteers

• Promoting strong governance and safeguarding standards

• Building a sustainable future for hockey in the local area

The club committee and volunteers are working hard behind the scenes to progress the accreditation process, recognising the importance of creating a positive experience for everyone involved in the club.

ClubMark accreditation will also allow the club to display the official England Hockey ClubMark logo and certificate, recognising the hard work of volunteers and the quality of the environment being created for players of all ages and abilities.

Stokesley Hockey Club would like to thank all volunteers, coaches, players, parents and supporters who continue to contribute to the development of the club and help create a welcoming and ambitious hockey community.