Recruitment & Vetting Policy

Blackrock A.C. is a volunteer-led club. To protect our young athletes and support our coaches, all adults taking responsibility for minors must undergo a formal recruitment and vetting process.

1. Requirements by Role

The level of training required depends on your involvement with the club. Garda Vetting and Safeguarding certificates must be renewed every 4 years.

Role Garda Vetting Safeguarding Training Coaching Course AI Registered
Coaches Required Level 1 Required Yes
Volunteer Parents Required Level 1 Optional Yes
Club Committee Required None No Yes
Welfare Officers Required Level 2 No Yes
Ad-hoc Helpers No* No* No No

*Note: Ad-hoc helpers (occasional event assistance) must never be left unsupervised with children.

2. The Garda Vetting Process (Step-by-Step)

Vetting can take anywhere from two weeks to two months. You must be vetted before you begin coaching.

Complete eVetting Form: Download the form from our site or Athletics Ireland.

  1. ID Validation: Present the form and original ID (Passport/Driving Licence) to our Club Children’s Officer. They must vouch for the originals.

  2. National Processing: We post your form to Athletics Ireland. Within 14 days, you will receive an email from the National Vetting Bureau.

  3. Online Application: Complete the online link in that email immediately (check your junk folder!).

  4. Final Approval: Once processed, you will receive an approval letter from Athletics Ireland. Please forward a copy of this letter to the Club Children’s Officer.

3. Child Safeguarding Training

Anyone in regular contact with children must complete Safeguarding training.

  • Initial Training: Most coaches require Level 1. We allow a 6-month grace period for new coaches to complete this.

  • Refreshers: Required every 4 years.

  • Where to train: Courses are run by Sport Ireland, Local Sports Partnerships, and Athletics Ireland. The club also hosts an annual course every September.

  • Online Refresher: Access the Sport Ireland E-Learning Refresher here.

4. Key Contacts for Volunteers

Our Children’s Officer handles all vetting applications with strict confidentiality.

Compliance Notice: Any official, coach, or volunteer who fails to comply with the club-approved child welfare and vetting policies will be asked to cease working with the Club until requirements are met.