Quality Club is Paddle UK’s accreditation programme for paddlesport clubs in England. Since its launch three years ago, it has helped more than 50 clubs exceed our minimum standards in governance, safeguarding, and safety.
By voluntarily participating in the Quality Club programme, the clubs have demonstrated their commitment to not only meeting but exceeding these standards, helping promote equality, diversity, and inclusion within their communities. We’re proud to share that over 12% of Paddle UK Affiliated Clubs now hold the prestigious Quality Club status.
“Well done and be proud of achieving the quality club recognition for all the time spent reviewing in detail how the club operates. Be proud of everyone who has helped or contributed towards completing this. Thank you for joining 50 English clubs that have achieved Quality Club status. It's a process that can be regularly reviewed and built upon to maintain a successful club.” – Dee Paterson, Paddle UK President
Recently, Swindon and District Canoe Club marked a significant milestone as the 50th club to achieve accreditation. To recognise their achievement, Paddle UK President, Dee Paterson, was invited to present them with their Quality Club plaque during one of their regular club sessions at Coate Water Country Park.
The programme and online assessment has been improved this year, making it even easier to get involved and progress through. We will be running two webinars for clubs to find out more.
The webinars will take place on Tuesday, May 28th, with lunchtime and evening slots available. Find more information and sign up to the webinars here.
Clubs who have been through the programme have reported that it has helped them with peace of mind of knowing that they are following best practices.
“The Quality Club process has helped us to look at the club in a different way than we have before and to make changes and implement new processes to improve the club and make it the best it can be at this time. The whole process has been very helpful and supportive. We are very proud of achieving Paddle UK Quality Club status.” – Louise, Swindon and District Canoe Club Chair
“The improvements in the systems have made things clearer and having a volunteer register with all of the information in one place makes my job easier. The club is so much the better for achieving Quality Club status.” – Sam, Swindon and District Canoe Club Volunteer Co-Ordinator