On the latest Trending Topics, we welcome Matt Draper and Mark Romasiuk from England Golf and David Hawkins, Secretary of the Bedfordshire Golf Union.  

The discussion is all about mental health and how it can effect anyone in Golf Clubs, both Golfers and those working and volunteering in clubs.  David explains why he has such a strong interest in this topic and why he became a mental health first aider and how he now leads a group of mental health first aiders.  The three guests explain that it's down to all of us to look out for each other and try to recognise when something's not right.

England Golf will be launching its "Fore Your Mind" compaign in early February.  Mark explains how it's designed to signpost both Golfers and Golf Clubs to the best place to receive advice and information.  A really important topic and thanks to David for sharing his story. 

https://www.englandgolf.org/

www.golfclubtalk.uk

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Don't forget our Management Field Trip at Princes and Royal Cinque Ports Golf Clubs on 26th, 27th March.  For more details or to book click here - Management Field Trip 

A great interview on episode 109 with three outstanding younger managers joining Leighton.  We meet James Brockington, GM at Henley GC, Molly Pavey, GM at Bramshaw, Poultons & Newark, and George Tunbridge, GM at St Enodoc.  It's not all about their age though and the chat explores their entry into Golf Management and how they view the industry.  

The wide range of clubs and ownership structures also provides a great perspective and the topics explored include mentorship, communication, investment, current challenges, particularly around cost pressures and how to engage your members.  The industry is certainly in good hands and we thank the guests for their time and hope you enjoy an enlightening interview.  

Don't forget our Management Field Trip at Princes and Royal Cinque Ports Golf Clubs on 26th, 27th March.  For more details or to book click here - Management Field Trip 

www.golfclubtalk.uk

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As we conclude 2024, Leighton & Eddie catch up for a review of the events and trends of 2024, with a significant slant on investment at clubs and service standards and "experience" for members.  There's also a look at the favourite episodes through the year.  It's then on to a look at what might emerge in 2025.  

Thanks to all listeners who have tuned in throughout the year.  If you haven't already, please backtrack through previous epsiodes.

Eddie is then joined by Andrew Reynolds, who has recently retired as Head Professional of Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club - a true legend within the golf industry.  Andrew's career began as a caddie at the local club, from there he shaped his pathway as a player, coach and retailer - Beyond his achievements, Andrew is a natural storyteller, whereby he shares some of the wisdom and experiences that have made him a cornerstone of the golf community . 

Don't forget our Management Field Trip at Princes and Royal Cinque Ports Golf Clubs on 26th, 27th March.  For more details or to book click here - Management Field Trip 

www.golfclubtalk.uk

[email protected]

On the latest Trending Topics we welcome Matt Draper and delve into two vital areas of Golf Clubs - Safeguarding and Legal Compliance.  The common theme through the discussions centre on good governance practices and having the necessary policies and procedures in place. 

The safeguarding department at England Golf are there to educate and inform clubs around ways to keep their members safe, but also if an incident were to arise - they are there to help in a practical way.  Petra Duvanna, Safeguarding Lead Officer, explains to listeners what safeguarding is and what clubs need to be aware of and look out for.  She also talks through some examples of breeches and these quite often come down to bullying by others or harrassment by parents.  There's also some great advice on how to report an incident.

David Walters, Legal & Compliance Officer, then talks us through some other areas of legal compliance for clubs and how to stay on the right side of the law!  This is largely from an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion point of view, but this could also mean member discipline, employment law, health and safety and GDPR.  Your EDI policy and Disciplinary Policy will be the guiding documents here.

A crucial listen for any Club Manager or someone who governs at a club.

https://www.englandgolf.org/safeguarding

https://www.englandgolf.org/legal

Golf Club Talk UK Management Field Trip - Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th March 2025.

Leighton is joined by Tom Brooke, Natalie McColl, Gareth Morgan and Darren Wood to take a look back at 2024.  The review is carried out through the lens of the GCMA Strategic Plan and like all golf clubs should be doing - reviewing the objectives.  After Tom gives an overview of the purpose, vision and values, we take a look at four key pillars of the plan:

• Membership and Membership Services
• Regional Development
• Professional Development
• Partnerships and Collaborations

There's also a brief glimpse into 2025 and some of the opportunities and challenges.  

Save the date for your diary!  November 16th - 18th 2025 - GCMA Conference.  De Vere Cotswold Water Park.

Golf Club Talk UK Management Field Trip - Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th March 2025.  GCMA members receive a £30 discount.  Quote code "GCMAMEMBER"

www.gcma.org.uk

GCMA Strategic Plan