In addition to the generic support that we provider to all athletes in our care, some of our athletes may need:

  • Additional support on the slopes
  • Additional care support off the slopes
  • Both of the above

On Slope Support

If a skier has been identified as having additional needs on the slopes an enhanced risk assessment will be drawn up and signed off by the head coach. Parents/carers will be asked to provide information to help frame the assessment. The risk assessment will identify the type and amount of additional support that is needed. It is important to remember that each risk assessment is specific to the individual - it is not one size fits all. The support identified may include things like high-vis jackets to 1:1 care.

Off Slope Support

If a skier has been identified as having additional care needs off the slope a risk assessment will be drawn up by the safeguarding volunteer to identify how the needs of the athlete should be met.

1:1 Support

Risk assessments may require 1:1 support. The reasons for 1:1 support may include, but are not limited to:

  • Degree of Intellectual impairment
  • Additional sensory or physical impairment
  • Medical conditions
  • Psychological conditions
  • Behavioural issues

Some athletes may provide their own 1:1 support for on the slope needs, off the slope needs, or both. Others may be looking for SOWM to provide the required support.

SOWM Provided Support

The ability of SOWM to provide the required additional support will depend on:

  • The number of volunteers travelling
  • The skill set and willingness of volunteers
  • The nature of support that is needed

Where there are competing needs for additional care other factors will be taken into account, for example:

  • If the athlete has had support from SOWM previously

The provision of 1:1 care cannot negatively impact the safe support of other skiers who have generic needs. If SOWM provides the additional care for one trip this will not bind SOWM to provide additional care on future trips. The decision to provide care will be made on a trip-by-trip basis.