Codes of Conduct
British Orienteering believes that everyone has the right to enjoy our sport in an environment that is safe, respectful, inclusive and free from abuse, discrimination or harassment.
Our Code of Ethics & Behaviour provides the moral compass for everyone involved in orienteering, guiding how we act, interact, and uphold the integrity of our sport. It underpins the Code of Conduct, which translate these values into clear expectations for behaviour.
Our Codes of Conduct and Ethics & Behavoiur are a vital part of safeguarding, as they set clear expectations for behaviour that protect children, young people and adults at risk, and help create a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for everyone involved in our sport.
The key principles in the Code of Ethics and Behaviour are;
- Integrity & Fairness – Act honestly, uphold the rules, and play in the spirit of the sport.
- Respect & Dignity – Treat all participants, officials, volunteers, and spectators with respect.
- Safety & Wellbeing – Protect yourself and others, creating a safe and welcoming environment.
- Inclusivity & Equality – Promote equal opportunity and prevent discrimination of any kind.
- Responsibility & Accountability – Take personal responsibility for behaviour and decisions; follow procedures and guidelines.
- Sportsmanship & Community – Encourage teamwork, respect opponents, and foster a positive sporting culture.
“By following these principles, we protect the integrity of orienteering and create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.”
Who the code applies to
This Code of Ethics & Behaviour and the Code of Conduct apply to everyone involved in orienteering - athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, parents, spectators, and affiliated clubs and associations.
In addition to the Code of Conduct, Coaches must sign up to the Coaches Code of Conduct;
Affiliated Clubs and Associations Code of Conduct - Why don’t you use this template to create your own Code of Conduct?
Handling Breaches of the Code
Breaches of the Codes of Conduct are taken seriously and will be addressed promptly and fairly. Possible actions include:
- Warning or Reprimand – For minor or first-time breaches.
- Suspension from Activities – Temporary removal from competitions, coaching, or club events.
- Removal from Roles or Positions – Suspension or dismissal from leadership, volunteer, or committee roles.
- Membership Suspension or Expulsion – Temporary or permanent loss of club or national membership.
- Referral to External Authorities – For serious safeguarding, abuse, criminal, or doping-related issues.
- Corrective Actions – Training, mentorship, or other measures to prevent repeat breaches.
All actions are applied fairly and proportionally, in line with British Orienteering’s disciplinary and safeguarding procedures.
Reporting Concerns
- If you witness or experience a breach of the Codes of Conduct, please report it promptly through British Orienteering’s safeguarding or disciplinary channels.
“By following these principles and codes, we protect the integrity of orienteering and create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.”
Please report any potential matters relating to safeguarding children or adults to safeguarding@britishorienteering.org.uk
Alternatively you can call the British Orienteering Lead Safeguarding Officer, Jeanette Downing on 07891 091662.
Submit a concern via our quick report form
British Orienteering has introduced a quick report form which can be used to make immediate reports to the Lead Safeguarding Officer. Please use the below link to access the form and submit a concern and we will be in touch with you in due course.