These are a set of conditions and standards that help to define the relationship between an organisation and those that affiliate to it.

England Golf utilise these to ensure that the image and integrity of the game are upheld by requiring those that affiliate to adopt consistent standards across key aspects of their operations.

For more detail on each of the England Golf terms of affiliation view the dedicated web page.

All businesses that employ people have a responsibility to their employees and must always operate within the law.

Understanding employment law and regulations is an essential requirement for all Directors and Committee members, as well as managers within the business.

In the UK, all organisations are required by law to have disciplinary & dismissal, and grievance policies.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of regulations that oversee the collection, processing and storage of personal data. Every individual takes the value of their personal data very seriously, and golf clubs must follow the legal requirements of GDPR to ensure that members & customers have confidence in their individual information being held securely and used for its intended purpose.

Through GDPR compliance, clubs will be utilising a framework that helps to protect the data of their members, customers, employees and connected third parties, whilst helping them to avoid any legal challenges and potentially damaging fines.

A highly important aspect of operating a golf club is to ensure the health, safety and well-being of members, customers, employees and generally whoever else may visit the club. This covers everything from having the correct policies and procedures in place, performing regular risk assessments, and ensuring appropriate staff training is carried out.

Remaining compliant in these areas creates a safer and healthier environment for all users of a facility whilst minimising the risk of accidents, injuries, and the threat of possible legal action.

However, implementing polices and adopting robust practices is just the start, so its important for clubs to stay up to date with the changing regulations and best practices.

Clubs should consider engaging the services of professional advisors in this field, and undertaking regular reviews and inspections to ensure the club is compliant and taking all reasonable precautions

For any clubs providing food and beverage services to their members & customers, there are some important considerations and legislation that needs to be followed in order to deliver this safely.

Rules & regulations around food safety are growing ever more complex, particularly in areas such as labelling, providing allergen information and adding nutritional details to menus. Failure to ensure ongoing compliance in this area could have very damaging consequences for any individuals involved but also lead to significant repercussions, both from a reputational and legal perspective.

Licensing is also an important factor in this function of the business covering areas such as the sale of alcohol and providing entertainment to those utilising your facilities.