Frequently Asked Questions: Public Liability Insurance for Gymnastics Clubs & Why Sportsguard is a Trusted Alternative

Running a gymnastics club in the UK involves responsibility not just for coaching athletes and running sessions, but for managing the risks that come with physical activity. One of the key protections every club needs is public liability insurance.

In this FAQ article, we’ll break down:

• Why gymnastics clubs need public liability insurance

• What it covers

• Why Sportsguard is a viable and often preferred alternative to insurance schemes provided by national governing bodies (NGBs)

Why do gymnastics clubs need public liability insurance?

Public liability insurance protects your club if someone is injured or their property is damaged due to your activities. This could include:

• A parent tripping over equipment and sustaining an injury

• A gymnast being hurt during training due to negligence or an accident

• Damage to a venue you hire for training or events

Without insurance, your club could face costly legal claims even if the incident wasn’t your fault.

Is public liability insurance a legal requirement for gymnastics clubs?

While not strictly a legal requirement, most:

• Venue owners will require you to have it to rent space

• Local councils or schools will insist on proof of insurance before allowing classes

• Parents expect that clubs are insured for safety and professionalism

It’s considered an essential part of risk management and shows you’re operating responsibly.

Doesn’t the governing body provide insurance?

Many UK gymnastics clubs affiliate with a national governing body (NGB), which typically includes insurance as part of membership.

However, the NGB scheme might not always be:

• The most cost-effective option

• The best fit for the size or type of your club

• Flexible enough to meet your club’s unique requirements

This is where alternatives like Sportsguard come in.

Who are Sportsguard?

Sportsguard is a UK-based specialist sports insurance provider with over 30 years of experience covering clubs, coaches, and sports organisations.

They provide tailored insurance solutions, including:

• Public liability

• Professional indemnity

• Personal accident

• Employers’ liability

• Equipment cover

They are an independent provider, which means you’re not tied to an NGB membership to access protection.

Why consider Sportsguard over the NGB insurance scheme?

Here are some reasons clubs choose Sportsguard as an alternative:

1. Cost-Effective Cover

Clubs often find they can save money by going directly to an insurer like Sportsguard rather than paying for bundled membership + insurance through the NGB.

2. Flexible Policies

Sportsguard tailors policies to your needs. Whether you’re a recreational club, performance academy, or freelance coach, you can build cover that suits your activities.

3. Freedom of Choice

You’re not tied to a specific organisation’s structure or rules. This can be beneficial for clubs that prefer to operate independently or under a different training philosophy.

4. Proven Track Record

Sportsguard has been trusted by thousands of sports clubs across the UK. Their policies are underwritten by established insurers and they have a dedicated sports claims team.

5. Support for Non-NGB Clubs

If your club chooses not to affiliate with the national governing body, for whatever reason, Sportsguard allows you to stay insured and operational without compromise.

Can I still access competitions or events if I don’t use the NGB’s insurance?

This depends on the organiser. Some official NGB competitions may require affiliation and their insurance, but many independent competitions, displays, and community events allow entry with proof of equivalent cover such as that offered by Sportsguard.

What does Sportsguard’s public liability insurance cover?

A typical Sportsguard gymnastics club policy includes:

• Public liability – covers legal costs and damages if someone is injured or property is damaged

• Professional indemnity – covers claims from negligent coaching or instruction

• Personal accident cover – optional protection for club members and coaches

• Employers’ liability – required by law if you employ staff

• Equipment cover – for damage, loss or theft of your club’s apparatus

How can I switch to Sportsguard?

You can get a quote directly from Sportsguard’s website or contact their team for a tailored consultation. You’ll need to provide details about your club, the number of participants, coaches, venues used, and types of sessions delivered.

Final Thoughts

Gymnastics is a high-skill, high-risk sport, and having the right insurance in place is non-negotiable. While governing bodies offer one route, clubs should know they have alternatives that can offer better value and flexibility.

Sportsguard has earned a strong reputation as a reliable, specialist insurer for gymnastics clubs who want protection without constraints.