Leaders Handout

The Leaders handout provides leaders with a summary of the key information for leading a group.

A pocket sized copy of the Leaders Handout is included in the First Aid Kit.

You can also download a pocket sized copy of the Leaders Handout.

Leaders Brief Checklist

  • Check you have your equipment – first aid kit, phone, whistle, light, route.

  • Check the numbers in the group. If there are too many split the group or ask some to switch to another group.

  • Ask if anyone is new to the club or the group. If so do introductions.

  • Ask if anyone is under 18. We only take people aged 18 or over.

  • Appoint a tail runner and introduce them.

  • Outline the intended route and advise of any potential hazards.

  • From October to May some form of reflective clothing is needed.

  • All year round some form of high viz clothing must be worn.

 Remind people of the rules to ensure everyone has a safe run

  • No headphones allowed.

  • Road crossing instructions - OVER or STOP.

  • Follow my and the tail runner’s instructions and watch for our hand signals.

  • Listen for leaders whistle to get your attention.

  • Pass behind cars when crossing side roads.

  • Run in pairs or single file (SINGLE LEFT or SINGLE RIGHT) where there are pedestrians, obstacles or the path narrows.

  • Be careful of trip hazards and make sure you can see where you are putting your feet.

  • Listen for leader shouting out obstacles or instructions and pass the message to those behind you.

  • You must wait or turn back for the tail runner if you are asked to.

  • If you have any problems or need to leave the run early inform the leader or tail runner.

In the event of an accident – Summary

  • Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation. Listen to what the injured person is saying.

  • Stop the group in a safe place.  Is there danger of further injuries to the casualty or group?

  • In the case of collapse, chest pain, severe breathlessness vehicle collision, ANY head injury or injury requiring specialist treatment, call the emergency services on 999 or 112.

  • Do not move someone with major injuries. Wait for the emergency medics.

  • Ask if there is a qualified first aider who can take appropriate action for minor injuries.

  • The casualty must be accompanied if they decide to return to the start point.  Consider using the emergency taxi service (028 2588 004) to get the casualty back.

  • Deal with the rest of the group and ensure that they are adequately supervised if the run continues. 

  • If necessary contact the injured person's ICE contact, parent/carer.

  • Complete an accident report form.

In the event of an incident – Summary

An incident is a situation where inappropriate behaviour is observed or reported by any member of the group. 

  • Where inappropriate behaviour is reported or observed a record of the incident should be made on an Incident Report Form.

  • The Welfare Officer should receive a copy of the Incident Report Form within 24 hours.

  • Ensure there is confidentiality.