Notice for Coaches and Clubs
After a number of recent queries, GBWBA would like to clarify a number of issues relating to the practice of coaching in Wheelchair Basketball.
Please note that the following information is not due to any changes in GBWBA policies or procedures, it is simply to highlight best working practice and to draw attention to certain circumstances that may impact on current delivery.
Qualifications
As you may be aware, the current GBWBA courses qualify coaches to practice at a certain level of delivery. Please ensure that as a club or coach, you/your coaches only operate at the level they are qualified at:
- Grade 1 Assistant Wheelchair Basketball Coach Award: are qualified to assist a fully qualified Grade 2 Wheelchair Basketball Coach
- Grade 2 Wheelchair Basketball Coach Award: are qualified to lead a session unsupervised only if you have completed and submitted your course log book (relevant to those that have completed the new course since 2009)
- Unqualified or New Coaches: Are not qualified to coach wheelchair basketball at any level until the appropriate wheelchair basketball qualification is achieved
- Running Basketball qualified coaches: can temporarily practice but have a 12 month window to complete the GBWBA qualifications to the appropriate level. Contact must be made with GBWBA to discuss the situation and be working with the Coach Development Manager to attend the appropriate courses
*GBWBA do not fast track people through the Coach Education Programme regardless of their experience in other sports
**GBWBA League Rule A-6 states that ‘All clubs playing in the league must have a qualified Grade 2 Coach’
Insurance
It is important to understand that having the appropriate qualification, does not mean that you are automatically insured to practice. Insurance can be gained on an annual basis from a number of sources, including through membership to the GBWBA as a ‘Non Playing Member’. The GBWBA would like to draw club/coaches attention to the following ruling relating to insurance as a GBWBA Non Playing Member:
GBWBA insurance for non playing members only covers those operating in a voluntary capacity, whether it be in the club, community, school or any other environment. Any coaches being paid for coaching services are NOT covered by the GBWBA insurance policy (unless you are a qualified Tutor delivering a course on behalf of GBWBA)
Any Coaches/clubs receiving payment in return for coaching are required to obtain their own insurance, this can be done through GBWBA’s insurance company World Wide Sports Cover but other insurance companies also cover this type of activity. This type of cover can only be issued on individual enquiries and is not something that the GBWBA is permitted to do on behalf of our clubs as each case’s circumstances are taken into consideration.
*** Voluntary delivery can include travel expenses and equipment hire.
Tax
Please be aware that all payment made for coaching services is taxable. The Coach is responsible for paying their own tax and National Insurance contributions. This means the coach will need to keep details of their income so they can fill in an annual Self Assessment tax return. This may affect anyone in receipt of benefits so it is advised that individuals contact the Department of Work and Pensions if they feel they may be affected.
Please do not hesitate to contact the GBWBA Office to discuss any of this information further.
