GAA Clubs today are busier and more complex than ever. They serve communities, support young people and often work with external partners and funding. With so much going on, clubs can no longer afford to rely on informal systems or “the way things have always been done.”

That’s why having clear policies and procedures in place is essential.

While we don’t want to become overly bureaucratic, structured systems help clubs run more effectively, safely and fairly for everyone involved.

What are policies and procedures?

Policies are guiding principles that shape how a club operates. Procedures are the steps for putting those principles into action. Together, they ensure consistency, accountability and transparency in everything from recruitment and safeguarding to discipline and data protection.

They clarify:

– How we do things.

– Who is responsible.

– What members and the community can expect.

Why every club needs them

Policies and procedures benefit everyone in the club. They:

– Ensure the club operates to the highest standards expected in the GAA.

– Create a safe and secure environment, especially for young people.

– Provide a clear decision-making framework.

– Prevent misunderstandings and inconsistencies.

– Reduce reliance on unwritten knowledge held by a few.

– Offer protection for club officers, volunteers, players and parents

Key policy areas for GAA clubs

All clubs should align with policies available on the GAA TOBAR platform.

Core policies:

– Code of conduct.

– Child protection.

– Health and safety.

– Recruitment.

– Valuing volunteers.

– Discipline and appeals.

– Critical response procedures.

Additional policies:

– Data protection.

– Equality and inclusion.

– Conflict of interest and anti-fraud.

– Drug and alcohol policy (ASAP).

– Disability and special needs.

– Health and wellbeing.

– Respect policy.

How to put policies into action

Fortunately clubs don’t have to start from scratch. The GAA and Comhairle Uladh have provided comprehensive draft policies that clubs can tailor to suit their specific circumstances.

Steps to implementation:

– Edit the draft policies to reflect your club’s needs.

– Approve them formally at a club executive meeting or AGM.

– Make them available to all – on your club website or in print at club facilities.

– Most importantly, follow and live by them. A policy is only as good as its implementation.

A better club for everyone

When policies are clear and properly followed, everyone benefits, players, coaches, parents, and volunteers.

They help build a safer, more inclusive, and better-organised Club, true to the values of the GAA.