🏆 Aquastim Junior Match Rules

These rules are in place to ensure a fair, fun, and safe environment for all junior anglers taking part in the Aquastim Junior Sponsorship Programme. By registering and attending, all participants and their parents/guardians agree to abide by the rules outlined below.

🎯 Eligibility

• Open to junior anglers aged 8–16 on the date of the match.
• All juniors must be registered through a parent account.
• Only juniors who are able to fish independently will be permitted to compete.

🧠 Independence Requirement

This is a key judging criteria. Juniors must be able to:

• Draw their own peg and walk to their station unaccompanied.
• Set up all their own tackle (rods, poles, nets, seatbox, bait tray, etc.).
• Tie their own rigs, connect elastics, and plumb their depth.
• Choose where and how to fish within their peg.
• Bait their own hooks and manage their feed (groundbait, pellets, etc.).
• Land, unhook, and return fish without adult assistance.

💬 Tip: Practice at home or club sessions is encouraged to build confidence and preparation skills.

🎣 Permitted Methods

Juniors may use any of the following methods, provided they can do so confidently:

• Whip
• Pole
• Waggler
• Feeder

No more than one rod/pole in use at a time. Spare rigs and setups are allowed.

🐟 Fishing Rules

• Keepnets are provided or approved at the venue.
• All fish must be handled with wet hands and returned safely after weighing.
• Barbless hooks only (size and rules may be adjusted per venue).
• Maximum line and hooklength rules follow the match venue’s guidelines.

🕒 Match Format

• Draw: All juniors must draw their own peg on arrival.
• Setup Time: 60 minutes after draw before the start whistle.
• Match Duration: 3–4 hours (depending on age group and weather).
• End: Match finishes on a single whistle. Lines must be out of the water.

✅ Scoring & Judging Criteria

While total weight may contribute, judging also includes:

• Peg setup and organisation
• Rig choice and method selection
• Fish handling and unhooking
• Bait management and feeding strategy
• Independence, focus, and attitude

The overall winners will be selected based on performance across both qualifying matches.

🚫 What’s Not Allowed

• No adult assistance once setup begins — this includes tying rigs, plumbing depth, baiting hooks, or netting fish.
• No coaching during the match — verbal instructions from the bank will result in disqualification.
• No sharing of tackle between pegs during the match.
• No littering — pegs must be left clean and tidy.

🛡 Safeguarding & Conduct

• All juniors must be signed in by a parent or guardian and remain supervised off-peg.
• All adult volunteers are DBS checked and safeguarding trained.
• Abusive language, unsporting behaviour, or unsafe conduct will result in removal from the event.

📸 Photography & Media

• Event photos and videos may be taken for promotional use.
• Consent must be provided during registration. Parents may opt out if preferred.

❗ Important Notes

• Matches will go ahead rain or shine, unless there is a serious weather warning (e.g. lightning).
• In the event of illness or withdrawal, please notify organisers as soon as possible.
• Final decisions rest with the event officials and head judges, whose rulings are final.

🛡️ Safety & Welfare at Aquastim Junior Matches

At Aquastim, the safety, wellbeing, and protection of junior participants, their families, and our volunteers is our highest priority. We are fully committed to delivering a safe, inclusive, and well-managed environment for everyone involved in our junior match events.

Please read the following safety principles carefully. By attending, all participants (and their guardians) agree to the standards and procedures outlined below.

👶 Junior Participant Safety

• All juniors must be registered by a parent or legal guardian before attending any match event.
• Juniors must be signed in on arrival and signed out at the end of the event by their parent or appointed responsible adult.
• Juniors are not permitted to leave the match area without permission or supervision.
• Juniors must use suitable equipment, bait, and clothing appropriate for the weather, venue, and conditions.
• All juniors must bring and use their own:
  • Disgorger
  • Landing net
  • Unhooking mat (if required)
  • Seatbox or chair setup that is stable and safe

👨‍👩‍👧 Parent & Guardian Responsibilities

• Parents/guardians must remain on-site or designate a responsible adult for the duration of the event.
• Only juniors are permitted on pegs once the match begins — no adult assistance is allowed during the match.
• Parents must ensure their child is well enough to participate, properly dressed, and has food, drink, and necessary medication (e.g. inhalers).
• Any medical condition or additional need must be disclosed during registration to ensure appropriate accommodations.

🧑‍💼 Organiser & Volunteer Responsibilities

• All organisers and on-site volunteers will:
  • Hold valid DBS checks
  • Follow the event’s Safeguarding Policy
  • Be briefed on emergency procedures, first aid, and venue-specific risks
• At least one qualified First Aider will be present throughout the event.
• Risk assessments are carried out for all venues prior to match day, covering water access, weather, trip hazards, shelter, and emergency access.

☀️ Weather & Environment

• Events are outdoor and all-weather, but will be suspended or cancelled in the event of:
  • Thunder and lightning
  • Extreme winds
  • Flooding or water safety risks
• Sun protection (hats, SPF) and hydration are strongly advised in warm conditions.
• Juniors should bring waterproof clothing and spare dry layers in case of wet weather.

🧯 Emergency Procedures

• In the event of a medical incident, match officials will pause the event and follow the Emergency Action Plan.
• Parents will be contacted immediately if an incident involves their child.
• Emergency services will be called if necessary — venue postcodes and access points are logged in advance.

🔐 Privacy & Data Protection

• All participant information is securely stored and processed in line with GDPR regulations.
• Health or safeguarding information is only accessible to those with a legitimate need-to-know (e.g. lead organisers or medical support).

📸 Media & Photography

• Photography and video may take place during the event for promotional or reporting purposes.
• Parents may opt out during registration. No names will be published without additional written consent.

🚫 Unacceptable Conduct

To ensure a positive experience for everyone, the following are not tolerated:

• Aggressive or abusive behaviour (from juniors or adults)
• Disruption of the event or officials
• Breach of match rules (e.g. coaching from the bank)
• Unsafe behaviour around water or equipment

Violations may result in disqualification or being asked to leave the venue.

✅ Final Notes

• By attending, all parties agree to comply with these safety guidelines.
• Organisers reserve the right to amend procedures in the interest of safety.
• A full Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct are available on request or can be viewed on our website.

✅ Aquastim Junior Sponsorship Programme: Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct sets out the expectations for junior participants, parents/guardians, and event staff/volunteers involved in any Aquastim-organised activity. By registering and attending, you agree to uphold these standards to ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone.

🎣 For Junior Anglers

All junior participants must:

• Show respect to fellow anglers, organisers, volunteers, and venue staff.
• Follow all match rules and fish entirely independently (no adult assistance).
• Keep their peg tidy and fish responsibly, handling all fish with care.
• Never act aggressively, use inappropriate language, or intentionally disrupt others.
• Wear appropriate clothing and ensure personal safety throughout the event.
• Cooperate with stewards, judges, or volunteers when approached.
• Never leave the match area without permission from a supervising adult.

Any form of bullying, cheating, or unsafe conduct may result in disqualification.

👨‍👩‍👧 For Parents and Guardians

All parents and guardians must:

• Ensure your child is registered properly and meets the independence requirements.
• Remain on-site for the duration of the event (or assign a responsible adult).
• Refrain from giving coaching, instructions, or assistance during the match.
• Treat all organisers, officials, volunteers, and other parents with courtesy and respect.
• Report any concerns regarding safeguarding, behaviour, or safety immediately to a steward or event official.
• Avoid any form of disruptive behaviour from the bank, including arguing, shouting, or interfering with judges.

Support your child positively — let them grow by learning and doing things for themselves.

🧑‍💼 For Organisers, Staff, and Volunteers

All Aquastim personnel must:

• Promote a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all juniors and families.
• Follow the programme’s Safeguarding Policy, Emergency Procedures, and Risk Assessments at all times.
• Hold a valid DBS check and act in the best interests of young participants.
• Maintain professional boundaries and never engage in one-to-one situations unless required and risk-assessed.
• Act fairly and without bias when judging or overseeing matches.
• Report any safeguarding or behaviour concerns promptly to the Safeguarding Lead.

🛡️ Zero Tolerance Policy

Aquastim operates a zero tolerance policy for:

• Bullying, intimidation, or harassment
• Discriminatory or offensive language or behaviour
• Physical or verbal abuse (from juniors or adults)
• Cheating, match tampering, or dishonesty
• Any breach of safeguarding or GDPR obligations

Breaches may result in:

• Verbal warning
• Removal from the match or site
• Disqualification from the programme
• Escalation to authorities if necessary

💬 Raising Concerns

If you or your child have any concerns:

• Speak to the Event Safeguarding Officer on-site.
• Contact us via our website or safeguarding email provided at registration.
• All concerns are handled confidentially and in line with our safeguarding procedures.

✍️ Agreement

This Code of Conduct must be agreed to during registration by all parents and will be explained to juniors before each event.

Aquastim is proud to foster a positive, growth-focused experience for junior anglers. By following this Code of Conduct, we can all play our part in creating a safe, fair, and rewarding environment on and off the bank.

🛡️ Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy

Aquastim Junior Sponsorship Programme

1. Policy Statement

Aquastim is committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and protection of all children and young people who take part in our events and activities. We believe that every child, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, belief, or sexual orientation, has the right to be protected from harm, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.

We take our responsibilities seriously and follow UK legislation and best practices to ensure all children are treated with respect and dignity while participating in the Aquastim Junior Sponsorship Programme.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All children and young people (under 18) involved in Aquastim activities
• Parents and guardians
• Staff, volunteers, stewards, match officials, and anyone acting on behalf of Aquastim
• Partner organisations and sponsors operating on-site or at Aquastim events

3. Legal Framework

This policy is based on the following legislation and guidance:

• Children Act 1989 & 2004
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE)
• Data Protection Act 2018 / UK GDPR
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• NSPCC and CPSU Guidelines

4. Key Principles

• The welfare of the child is paramount.
• All children have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse.
• Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility — not just designated officers.
• All allegations or concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.
• The views and rights of children will be considered at all times.

5. Definitions of Abuse

We recognise the four main categories of abuse:

• Physical Abuse – hitting, shaking, burning, misuse of equipment
• Emotional Abuse – threats, criticism, humiliation, isolation
• Sexual Abuse – any form of sexual activity with a child
• Neglect – failure to meet a child’s basic needs (safety, food, medical care)

We also recognise:

• Bullying (including online)
• Grooming and exploitation
• Discriminatory abuse
• Peer-on-peer abuse

6. Safer Recruitment & Vetting

Aquastim will:

• Require enhanced DBS checks for all staff and volunteers who work directly with juniors.
• Obtain two references for new staff or regular volunteers.
• Require all staff and volunteers to read and agree to this policy.
• Provide safeguarding training or guidance before working at any event.

7. Supervision & Ratios

• All juniors will be signed in and out by a responsible adult.
• No child will be left unsupervised during official event hours.
• Recommended adult-to-child ratios will be followed:
  • Ages 8–12: 1 adult per 8 children
  • Ages 13–17: 1 adult per 10 children
• No 1:1 situations will occur unless previously risk-assessed and agreed in writing.

8. Photography & Social Media

• No images of children will be used without prior consent from parents or guardians.
• Consent will be obtained during registration and can be withdrawn at any time.
• Photos will never include personal identifying information (e.g. full name with image).
• Social media accounts are monitored, and abusive comments will be removed and reported.

9. Responding to Concerns or Disclosures

All staff and volunteers must:

• Listen carefully, stay calm, and never promise confidentiality
• Record the concern using the Aquastim Incident Form
• Report immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

Never:

• Investigate independently
• Confront the person accused
• Delay reporting

10. Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO)

Name: Chris Ware
Role: Designated Safeguarding Officer
Email: [email protected]
Phone: [Add dedicated mobile contact]
Backup Officer: [Second responsible adult if DSO unavailable]

11. Whistleblowing Policy

Anyone with concerns about a child’s safety, or the behaviour of an adult or volunteer, has a duty to report it. You may:

• Speak to the DSO
• Contact the NSPCC Whistleblowing Advice Line: 0800 028 0285
• Report directly to local children’s services or police if a child is in immediate danger

12. Record Keeping

• All safeguarding concerns will be documented using secure, GDPR-compliant tools.
• Access to safeguarding records is limited to the DSO and lead event organiser.
• Records are stored for 6 years in line with safeguarding retention guidance.

13. Event-Specific Safeguarding Measures

Each Aquastim event will include:

• A risk assessment
• A briefing for volunteers covering safeguarding, welfare and emergency plans
• A signed Code of Conduct for juniors and parents
• A first aid station and access to emergency medical support
• An onsite DSO or safeguarding-trained supervisor

14. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually or following any significant incident, legislative change, or safeguarding concern.

Last Reviewed: June 2025
Next Review Due: June 2026
Reviewed by: Chris Ware (Designated Safeguarding Officer)

🔐 Privacy Policy (GDPR)

Aquastim Junior Sponsorship Programme

Last updated: June 2025
Data Controller: Aquastim
Contact Email: [email protected]

1. Introduction

Aquastim is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal data in a lawful, transparent, and secure manner. This policy explains what personal data we collect, why we collect it, how we use it, and your rights under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

This policy applies to:

• Parents and guardians
• Junior participants
• Staff, volunteers, and sponsors
• Website visitors and form users

2. What Personal Data We Collect

We may collect and process the following types of personal data:

From Parents/Guardians:

• Full name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Address
• Relationship to child
• Emergency contact details
• Consent confirmations

From Junior Participants:

• Full name
• Date of birth and age
• Fishing experience and skills
• Medical or additional needs (if disclosed)
• Event participation data
• Consent for photography/video (optional)

From Website Users:

• IP address
• Browser/device information
• Form submission data
• Cookies and usage statistics (see Section 9)

3. Why We Collect This Data

We collect your data for the following purposes:

• To register and manage junior participant entries
• To assess eligibility and readiness for independent participation
• To communicate with parents and guardians before, during, and after events
• To ensure safeguarding, health, and safety compliance
• To send essential event updates and notifications
• To manage prize awards and sponsor logistics
• To gather feedback and improve our programme
• To comply with legal obligations

We will only collect data that is relevant, proportionate, and necessary.

4. Lawful Basis for Processing

We process your data based on one or more of the following lawful grounds:

• Consent – freely given during registration for communications, media, or optional data
• Contractual obligation – to deliver the services you've registered for
• Legal obligation – safeguarding, health and safety, and record-keeping compliance
• Legitimate interests – such as ensuring the safety and fair operation of our events

5. How We Store and Protect Your Data

All personal data is:

• Stored securely on encrypted databases and password-protected systems
• Accessible only to authorised staff and safeguarding officers
• Not shared with third parties unless required by law or with explicit consent

We conduct regular data access reviews and apply the principle of data minimisation.

6. Photography & Media

We may take photos or videos at events for promotional or reporting purposes.
 Consent for this is requested during the registration process.

• No photos or names will be published without consent
• Parents may withdraw consent at any time by emailing [email protected]
• Photos of juniors will never include full names or identifiable details unless explicitly agreed

7. Data Retention

• Event registration data: retained for 3 years
• Safeguarding records: retained for 6 years in line with best practice
• Consent and withdrawal records: retained for legal accountability

After this time, data is securely deleted or anonymised.

8. Your Rights Under GDPR

You have the following rights regarding your personal data:

• Right to access – You can request a copy of your data
• Right to rectification – You can correct inaccurate or incomplete data
• Right to erasure – You can request deletion of your data (unless required for legal reasons)
• Right to restrict processing – You can limit how we use your data
• Right to object – You can object to certain types of processing (e.g. marketing)
• Right to data portability – You can request your data in a portable format

To exercise these rights, email [email protected]. We will respond within 30 days.

9. Cookies & Website Analytics

Our website uses cookies to:

• Improve functionality
• Monitor page traffic
• Analyse user behaviour (via tools like Google Analytics)

You can manage cookie settings in your browser. Cookies are only activated with your consent.

10. Third-Party Services

We may use trusted services to help run our website or manage communications (e.g. Google Forms, Mailchimp, Stripe, etc).
 We only work with GDPR-compliant providers and data is never sold or used for purposes outside the programme.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this policy occasionally to reflect legal or operational changes. You will be notified of significant updates, and the latest version will always be published on our website.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions, concerns, or wish to exercise your rights, contact:

Data Protection Officer (DPO):
Chris Ware
📧 [email protected]
📞 [Insert Phone Number]

If you're not satisfied with our response, you can contact the UK’s data authority:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)
📞 0303 123 1113
🌐 https://ico.org.uk

🔐 Privacy Policy

Aquastim Junior Sponsorship Programme
Effective Date: June 2025

1. Introduction

At Aquastim, we are committed to protecting your privacy and personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, store, and protect your data in connection with our website and junior angling events. By using our site or submitting any forms, you agree to the terms of this policy.

2. Who We Are

Aquastim runs junior match fishing events in the UK.
We act as a Data Controller under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR).

If you have any questions about this policy, please contact:

Email: [email protected]
Data Protection Officer (DPO): Chris Ware

3. What Information We Collect

We may collect the following personal data from you:

From Parents/Guardians:

• Full name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Postal address
• Relationship to child
• Emergency contact details
• Consent confirmations

From Junior Participants:

• Full name
• Age and date of birth
• Fishing ability and methods used
• Health or medical conditions (if disclosed)
• Match attendance data
• Media consent preferences

From Website Users:

• IP address and browser/device info
• Cookie data (analytics and preferences)
• Form submission content (contact forms, registrations, etc.)

4. Why We Collect This Data

We collect your personal information for the following reasons:

• To register and manage participants in our junior angling programme
• To communicate essential event updates and information
• To assess suitability and experience for independent fishing
• To ensure safety and compliance with safeguarding regulations
• To promote events (with consent) through photography and social media
• To respond to enquiries via our website
• To maintain internal records and reporting

5. Lawful Bases for Processing

Under UK GDPR, we process personal data based on:

• Consent (for photography, optional communications, and medical info)
• Contractual obligations (to provide services you've registered for)
• Legal obligations (safeguarding, child protection, and health and safety)
• Legitimate interests (e.g. managing events, preventing fraud, improving services)

6. How We Store and Protect Your Data

• Your data is stored securely on password-protected systems
• Only authorised organisers and safeguarding officers can access your data
• We do not share your data with third parties unless required by law or with your explicit consent
• We retain data only as long as necessary, in line with our retention schedule (usually 3–6 years depending on purpose)

7. Photography & Media

• We may take photos or videos during matches for promotional and reporting purposes
• Consent is collected at registration and can be withdrawn at any time
• No identifying personal details (e.g. full name + image) will be published without written permission

8. Your Rights

You have the following rights under UK GDPR:

• The right to access your data
• The right to correct inaccurate data
• The right to erase your data (where legally permitted)
• The right to restrict processing
• The right to object to how we use your data
• The right to data portability

To exercise your rights, please contact [email protected]. We aim to respond within 30 days.

9. Cookies and Analytics

Our website uses cookies to:

• Analyse traffic and usage
• Improve user experience
• Remember preferences

You can control cookie preferences via your browser settings. Cookie consent is requested upon your first visit to the site.

10. Third-Party Services

We may use GDPR-compliant services such as:

• Google Analytics (website performance)
• Stripe or other payment platforms (if used for entries or bookings)
• Secure form providers (e.g. Google Forms, Typeform)

We only share data with third parties where strictly necessary for operations or compliance.

11. Children’s Data

We take extra care when processing data relating to children.

• All junior data is collected via parental/guardian consent
• Children cannot register themselves without adult supervision
• Sensitive data (e.g. health or safeguarding concerns) is only collected when needed and securely stored

12. Data Retention

We retain:

• General registration and event data for up to 3 years
• Safeguarding and incident records for up to 6 years
• Financial records (if applicable) for 6 years

When no longer needed, data is securely deleted or anonymised.

13. Changes to This Policy

This policy may be updated from time to time to reflect changes in law or how we operate.
 We recommend checking this page occasionally. The latest version will always be available on our website.

14. Complaints

If you’re concerned about how we process your data, contact:

Email: [email protected]
If unresolved, you may contact the UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO):
📞 0303 123 1113
🌐 https://ico.org.uk