Our Constitution can be found here
Please Note: If you want do the hardest walk or the scrambles them selves on offer each sunday you must read the scrambler's code, as scrambling without care can have fatal consequences. It is a good idea to read it even if you are only doing the medium level walks, as these sometimes involve easy scrambling. this is due to the fact that most high level walks will encounter some form of scrambling.
To promote safety and good practice whilst taking part in club activities. It is in the interests of Club safety that a clear policy be established. Any member deemed acting against Club interests as described in this policy might face appropriate action by the Club (i.e. section 3.e in the constitution).
Please refer to the equipment section for more information on specific equipment.
Every year we tell people about this rule and every year a few people ignore us. It is important - we wouldn't bother enforcing it if it wasn't.
Trainers are have little grip and do not provide ankle support. When walking on rocky and uneven ground, you can easily sprain your ankle. When it rains, jeans get wet and heavy and take a long time to dry. As well as being uncomfortable, in cold weather this puts you at risk of hypothermia. For your own safety and that of others in your group, we do not take people wearing jeans and trainers on the hill.
The designated Hike Leader will make all decisions on Hikes. The Hikes Leader agrees to lead hikes on the basis that their advice should be followed as if they were in your position.
Group sizes will be kept to a maximum of 1:12 during summer hikes, decreasing to about 1:7 on the harder winter hikes. Larger groups can become cumbersome and dangerous. This however will not mean people will be forced to do walks above their ability. The minimum size will be not less than 3.
Members must consider whether they are fit enough, competent enough and confident enough before leaving to do a particular walk. If unsure please seek the advice of an experienced member.
Medical Conditions should be made clear the the hike leaders prior to the hikes, don't worry about them the group can always stop for a couple of minutes.
All walks leaders have the authority to check the sacks of everyone on his/her walk to verify each individual has the necessary equipment
If in the opinion of the Hike Leader a member is not competent, fit, confident, or does not have the minimal required equipment then that member may be turned away from the walk and asked to find a more suitable plan.
No member may leave a group without consulting the Hike Leader.
Stick together - try not to lag behind but do tell the leader if the pace is too fast. The aim is to walk at the pace of the slowest group member. This is best achieved if you make sure the person behind you is keeping up, if they are to far behind or out of sight then inform the people in front to stop. If anything is bothering you (feet hurt, pace too quick etc.) please tell the other group members and hopefully it can be sorted out
It must be emphasized that the Hikes Leader is there to help your enjoyment of the countryside. He/She will not be able to help you if you don't let them know if anything is wrong. They are not to be regarded as unapproachable. In most cases the hike leaders will be experienced but not qualified as guides or first aiders.
On coach hikes, the Hike Secretaries should ensure that the sign-up sheets contain a record of who is doing each walk and that these are left in an accessible place on the coach.
Traveling to and from events the driver is in charge. His/her decisions are final and must be respected.
Before leaving on a hike, Hike Leaders should ensure that they leave a completed route card at the accommodation which includes the names of people on their walk, at least two contact phone numbers, the planned route, possible escape routes and estimated time of return.
All the above statements concerning Hikes, route cards, etc., apply in respect to Hikes undertaken whilst on a Tour or an Expedition.
In case of a conflict of interests, a majority vote of the present committee members will be called. This decision is final and contravention of this decision is deemed against the interests of the club.
During the winter months the hills can be more beautiful, but with that beauty comes danger. Winter walking can be more difficult, more treacherous and much more tiring than attempting the same walk under different conditions. The policy regarding fitness, competence and confidence levels is that much more important during these months.
** to be advised by walks leader and supplied by club if necessary
(Fleece clothing should be non-cotton, quick drying material)
Below is a brief guideline (Assuming all boots have good ankle support, leather upper or plastic) but not enforced.
| Sole type | Advice |
| B0 / Does not accept fully flexible crampon | Walker can be turned away from any walk, MUST NOT go above the snow line |
| B0 / Does accept fully flexible crampon | Walker can be turned away from any walk. But may be able to walk above snow line (hikes organizers discretion) |
| B1 | Can do any walk and some winter climbs |
| B2 / B3 | Can do any winter walking / climbing |
Before the walk routes should be planned and groups and leaders should be decided. Each group should have a deputy leader i.e. two maps and compasses are carried per group.
All day sacks should be packed the night before the day walk. (Except for clothing that is drying and packed lunches). The leader should check everyone in their group has the appropriate equipment for the route they are intending to take.
Route cards for all routes should be given to all groups and at a base source (Youth Hostel or bunkhouse warden)
When climbing as a club activity it must be recognized the club only has minimal climbing equipment and thus individual's equipment or hired equipment will be required. A group must have sufficient climbing equipment to climb safely with ample protection.
All participants must have been taught very basic safety skills before taking part i.e. belaying, securing harnesses and figure of eight knots.
Climbs must take place in smaller groups than walks, the club does not allow soloing so the minimal group size is 2 people.
The leader of the climbing group must have had a lot of experience leading at least the grade below that which is to be attempted. Other members of the group must have had experience with at least the grade below the one that will be attempted.
If the walk to the climb is not basic then a minimum group size of 2 to get to the climbing area will be requested.
Climbers should say they are climbing and then make the decision not to climb as necessary.
Use your common sense: be aware of your environment, check weather forecasts beforehand.
If you are for any reason in doubt or unsure - let the Hike Leader know of your concerns.
In special/exceptional circumstances the Chair, Hikes Organizer or their designated appointees may dictate the safety policy.
All persons attending shall be assumed to have read and understood the UMHC safety policy.
UMHC also recognizes that hiking is extremely addictive and enjoyable with a danger of overspending in Outdoor Equipment shops. UMHC recognizes that addiction can occur through reading these web pages or taking part in our activities.
Particular dangers to look out for include:
If you recognize these symptoms you must seek help A.S.A.P. UMHC cannot accept responsibility for falling into this condition.
In addition to the above statements, UMHC cannot be made liable for:
Happy hiking!