British Waterways has teamed up with the National Federation of Anglers (NFA) to create the first ever safety policy to be used by coarse angling clubs on the nation’s canals and rivers.

The document, which was produced after consultation with angling club members from across the country, covers the issues of health and safety, the responsibilities of club Chairs, volunteers and coaches, and risk assessment.

It was launched at the NFA’s conference on Saturday 19 April, where British Waterways’ visitor safety advisor Peter Wade will be hosting a workshop on angler safety.

Peter says: “It has been great to be involved in producing the first document of this kind for coarse anglers. There is an increasing drive amongst clubs to be seen as more professional, and indeed, the safety policy will help with getting the necessary insurance to fish on the waterways, as insurers want to be know that the people they are insuring are professional and safe.”

David Kent, the NFA’s representative on the National Liaison Group with British Waterways commented, “It is absolutely essential that we as a Governing Body can advise angling clubs on how to follow a professional and responsible approach to safety, ensuring not only protection of the club but also the safety of their membership.”

The safety policy will be handed to the NFA for distribution to its member clubs and will also be available to non-NFA clubs via the British Waterways and NFA website.