Run Leaders Info

RUN LEADERS: Run Leaders with Berkshire Trail Runners are required to attend a Leadership in Running Fitness (LiRF) course with England Athletics (EA), along with the usual criminal records check. This is to ensure we provide safe and consistent run leading, plus the added knowledge that we are covered by liability insurance courtesy of EA. It is their time and commitment that ensures we can provide a full calendar of runs

Run Leader Training Courses / Recruitment (LiRF):

To ensure a continued schedule of runs within Berkshire Trail Runners we are always looking to recruit more run leaders.

The run leader courses are held frequently throughout the year at many locations throughout the UK. Assuming you are happy to commit your services for 1 year we are happy to cover the cost out of club funds. The course length is just one day, followed by an online criminal record check, which once received will validate your license for 3 years.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a Run Leader, details on the "Leadership in Running Fitness course can be found HERE.

Subsidised Run Leader Course Commitment...

We ask that you commit yourself to at least 1-2 runs per month for the first year.
You are confident that you can lead a 5-10 km course via memory or suitable tech navigation (phone).
Be encouraging and supportive to new / less able runners.
Follow the Run Leader guide below, with a strong focus on safety.

NOTE: If you are unable to commit yourself ton a regular basis for the first year we may ask for all or part of the course fees back.

Run Leader Guide

Preparation...

Carry a fully charged mobile phone (at least 75%)
Plan a safe route according to the prevailing conditions (Sat Map here)
Keep your run within the limits of all runners, ie pace and occasional stops.
Consider carrying emergency equip such as a small first aid kit, with wound dressings, bandage and plasters
Carry a space blanket or survival bag when temperatures are below 10 C
Carry Covid-19 PPE: Sanitizer, mask and gloves should you need to attend an injury.

Run Briefing...

Introduce yourself to new runners, and introduce them to the group
Ensure EVERYONE is registered for the run and checked in. (vital for track and trace)
Check that everyone is fit and healthy to run, and free of Covid-19 key symptoms
Check that everyone is suitably equipped for the route and conditions (shoes, clothing, hydration)
Ascertain if anyone is running with any minor injuries or conditions that may compromise their safety.
Count the number of runners.
Allocate a tail runner, if available.
Ask faster runners to loop back as necessary to ensure that the group remains united.

During the run...

Ensure runners stay left whenever required to allow Bikers and Walkers past as necessary
Ensure runners stay well spaced (at least 3m apart) on narrow trails, to ensure good advanced visibility of trip hazards
Point out hazards and dangers
Periodically check that all runners are OK, and comfortable with the distance and pace
Encourage faster runners to loop back occasionally, if the group starts to split

Injuries / walk backs...

If a runner wants to leave the group and walk back due to a minor injury, they MUST contact the run leader via text or phone on arrival at the Lookout.
If their injury or condition is a cause for concern they MUST be escorted back, by someone carrying a mobile phone, who should then contact the Run Leader once safely back.
No runner should ever walk or run back ALONE if the temperature is below 10 C especially in windy conditions (wind chill), regardless of the reason for leaving the group.

Post Run...

Count the number of runners to check all runners are back
Encourage a cool down and stretch session as necessary
Invite new members to join us for a post run coffee / drink

First aid...

A basic knowledge of first aid is always handy in any environment, however it may be especially useful whilst running in an isolated area. Leaders should consider how they would treat: cuts, wounds, sprains, fractures, and incapacitation etc. Both St Johns and the Red Cross provide mobile phone apps to enhance and refresh your knowledge. In serious injuries and incapacitations help can be sought via 999 (ambulance), or via the park ranger (07 876 825 262) OR call the lookout number on 01344 354400.

The Lookout Contact Details...

Route Planning aids...

Run Leader Rota...

The Run Leader Rota can be found on the Run Leaders Whats App group and on our forum here.

+ Serious Incidents...

Since our inception we have had few injuries all of which have been minor falls and grazes, however it would be negligent if we did not have an action plan for a serious emergencies, which may also include other runners, walkers or bikers.

Action Plan in an emergency....

Make sure you and the location is safe and free of hazards.
Assess the casualty and administer first aid / CPR as necessary. If it is a very bad fall (Do Not Move them)
Delegate someone to communicate with 1. The Lookout, 2. Park Ranger and 3. Emergency Services (999).
Your location can be given by landmarks and the “What Three Words” app (what3words.com/products/what3words-app)
Make the casualty comfortable place insulation under and around using space blankets and jackets etc in cold weather.
Assess who is first aid trained in the group, and seek their help to assist as necessary.
Help could be 30 or more minutes away so be prepared to wait.
One of the many cyclists within the park could also be employed to assist with backing up the care plan or fetching medical equipment.

A Defibrillator is located in the Lookout reception area behind the desk, and there should be two first aid trained staff on duty at all times. We also understand that there are Defibrillators in all Park Ranger vehicles.

Please note that Ad Hoc runs organised by members using What's App etc, and organised outside of our normal schedule will not be covered by run leaders or the Run Together system, nor will you be notified of any changes.