NEW GUIDANCE ON U18 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL WITHOUT PARENTS

New BF guidance for under 18 fencers travelling internationally without their parents.

BF acknowledges that in some circumstances parents and guardians wish to allow their children under the age of 18 travel independently to competitions and training camps outside the UK. It can be complicated to navigate the best approach to take. Our new guidance note sets out BF’s advice to parents for different age groups, taking into account risk, safeguarding and other considerations, as well as the FIE/EFC requirements for U18 fencers.

BF’s position is that (unless part of a professionally organised group):

• Under 14s must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• 14-15 year olds should ideally have a parent or Nominated Adult present at all times.
• 16–18 year olds should be supported to develop independence, but must not be responsible for supervising others.

The guidance sets out advice while travelling overseas, including:

• Responsibilities of parents, nominated adults and athletes.
• Travelling to and from airports, both in the UK and internationally.
• Considerations for flying.
• Staying in hotels.
• Injury and other emergencies.

Click here to read BF’s guidance on U18 fencers travelling independently.

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