Communication

Principle 2

Principle 2: CommunicationNSOs ensure that relocation communication is timely, transparent, and accessible.
A relocation offer from an NSO to an athlete should be made in writing (for example, in the Athlete Agreement or a separate relocation agreement) and should detail any other available support as appropriate (for example, access to SSSM services, gym facilities, etc.).
The athlete’s primary service provider (NSO or NIN) should be clearly identified. Where various providers are responsible for different services, service provision is clearly mapped. Details about support service providers, relevant contacts, the Mental Health Referral Network (MHRN), Career Practitioner Referral Network (CPRN), and codes of conduct should also be provided.
Appendix 1: Guidelines for communicationThe relocation process will be a more positive experience for athletes and their families when communication is timely, transparent, and accessible. It is imperative that the primary service provider (NIN or NSO AW&E) is clearly nominated to avoid communication overlaps or miscommunications.
In some case, a relocation may involve an athlete moving to join a team or program for the first time. However in many cases a relocation will be a hand-over of a pathway athlete in a NIN to the NSO’s HP program. In these circumstances it is important for the NSO to communicate with the providers in the NIN that already have an established relationship with the athlete, to ensure a smooth provider transition.
As a measure of best practice, NSOs should prepare a relocation contract/offer that details: support services, financial obligations, HP expectations, emergency contacts, support personnel, codes of conduct, and any other relevant details that will assist the athlete to understand their rights and responsibilities within the HP program. Establishing sound communication pathways will help to support the relocation process and experience.
Areas for consideration
1.
Service provider
Who is the primary service provider? Is the athlete aware of who the primary service provider is?
Are other service providers clearly mapped out?
Is the athlete currently accessing any AIS services (MHRN or CPRN for example) that may need to be considered and transferred?
2.
Communication pathways
Has the athlete been provided with contact details for all relevant coaches, service providers, and fellow athletes within the HP program?
What are the appropriate communication pathways for athletes if they have a question or concern?
Are there clear communication guidelines and/or pathways in place for parents and/or partners?
How is ongoing communication managed between the NSO and parents? How do parents access information relating to the athlete and/or the sport (for example, competition dates)? Who manages this?
Is there a parents and partners network?
3.
Contracts
Has the athlete been briefed around all relevant and applicable codes of conduct?
What support services are available to athletes? (For example: AW&E, MHRN, Physiotherapy, Strength & Conditioning, Psychology, Doctor, etc.)
Who is responsible for trips back home, both financially and in terms of timing?

Communication

Principle 2: Communication

Appendix 1: Guidelines for communication

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Areas for consideration
1.	Service provider	Who is the primary service provider? Is the athlete aware of who the primary service provider is? Are other service providers clearly mapped out? Is the athlete currently accessing any AIS services (MHRN or CPRN for example) that may need to be considered and transferred?
2.	Communication pathways	Has the athlete been provided with contact details for all relevant coaches, service providers, and fellow athletes within the HP program? What are the appropriate communication pathways for athletes if they have a question or concern? Are there clear communication guidelines and/or pathways in place for parents and/or partners? How is ongoing communication managed between the NSO and parents? How do parents access information relating to the athlete and/or the sport (for example, competition dates)? Who manages this? Is there a parents and partners network?
3.	Contracts	Has the athlete been briefed around all relevant and applicable codes of conduct? What support services are available to athletes? (For example: AW&E, MHRN, Physiotherapy, Strength & Conditioning, Psychology, Doctor, etc.) Who is responsible for trips back home, both financially and in terms of timing?