Quality assurance
Health and safety
The Outer Edge insists upon the very highest standards in safety for all of our clients and staff taking part in our outdoor activities. Outdoor activities involve an element of risk which makes them challenging, exciting and facilitates personal development. However, the safety of every one involved is an absolute priority and The Outer Edge ensures the level of risk is acceptable and appropriate safety standards are maintained at all times. We produce rigorous risk assessments for all our activities, courses and tailored packages and ensure these are monitored and updated regularly. The Outer Edge will always have at least one qualified first aid instructor and a comprehensive first aid kit at each of our courses, adventure experiences or events.
Insurance
The Outer Edge is insured through Jardine Lloyd Thompson and has Public Liability Insurance to the value of £5 million, Products Liability Insurance to £5 million and Employers Liability Insurance to £10 million. Copies of these certificates are available. Some participants may like to take out their own Personal Accident Insurance at a small cost – we can provide you with details of insurance providers.
Staff
The Outer Edge’s activities are led by highly experienced, professional and qualified outdoor instructors. Our staff have a unique blend of knowledge and extensive experience together with a friendly and approachable disposition and have the ability to provide individual support and encouragement. We only recruit the most professional, qualified and experienced staff who are skilled in communicating and inspiring so you can easily understand what you need to do, alleviate any concerns and are free to enjoy the experience to the full. We ensure that all our staff share The Outer Edge’s values and take responsibility for safety and providing an excellent experience for every single client.
John Paul Edgington, Chief Instructor, holds the following qualifications: MLTB Single Pitch Award, MLTB Summer Mountain Leader Award, MIAS Level 3 Mountain Bike Instructor Award, Level 2 Kayak, LANTRA All Terrain Vehicle Award, GNAS Archery Leaders Award, RYA Level 2 Powerboat Certificate, Mountain/Outdoor First Aid Certificate. Our instructors hold a huge variety of outdoor qualifications – including the Mountaineering Instructor Award (MIA). Where appropriate, we bring in technical advisors who hold the MIA or MIC (Mountaineering Instructor Certificate) qualifications.
Equipment
All equipment used by The Outer Edge is regularly inspected, maintained, safe and of a high standard. We operate a safety log to record the purchase date and use of each piece of equipment and invest in new equipment at regular intervals. We continually develop our techniques and invest in new, innovative equipment to ensure we are providing the most effective approach.
Professional membership
The Outer Edge is an organisational member of the Institute of Outdoor Learning. John Paul Edgington is a professional member of the Mountain Leaders Training Board, British Canoe Union, Mountain Leaders Training Association and British Mountaineering Council. He recognises the importance of these organisations and ensures that The Outer Edge and his staff adhere to the high standards and professionalism set by these bodies. Karen Willis, The Outer Edge’s professional fundraising adviser, is a full certificated member of the Institute of Fundraising.
Group ratios
The Outer Edge has carefully planned maximum staff to client ratios for each of our exciting activities to ensure your safety and that you get the most out of your experience with us. Where a National Governing Body has made recommendations, we will be guided by these recommendations.
Medical conditions and disabilities
The Outer Edge sees no reason why the thrills of outdoor adventure sports should be enjoyed exclusively by the more able. We provide individual support for participants with disabilities and learning difficulties to ensure their absolute comfort and confidence in their chosen activity. We will talk with you to discuss your specific needs to ensure we can cater for your individual needs during your experiences with The Outer Edge.
Environmental sustainability
The Outer Edge has a huge respect for the environment in which we operate. We will always be mindful of this environment, whether that be natural or man-made, and will ensure that we build in approaches which ensure its sustainability.