Trek into the wild safely with Duke of Edinburgh Award Insurance

The Duke of Edinburgh Award was founded in 1954. Just seven years later, Mann Broadbent began insuring leisure activities. We have an unrivalled reputation in the sector, and as members of the Outdoor Industries Association, we have a keen interest in supporting those involved in DofE expeditions.

The DofE enables 14 to 24-year-olds to discover new talents, seek new opportunities, build friendships and develop skills for life. It is, for many, an important part of growing up and becoming ready for the world around them.

There are four sections to complete at the Bronze and Silver levels and five at Gold. They involve helping the community/environment, becoming fitter, developing new skills, planning, training for and completing an expedition and, for Gold only, working with a team on a residential activity.

The expedition element of the Duke of Edinburgh Award is important and exciting for the participants. Walking, cycling, and canoeing activities, to name a few, are available.

Due to the nature of the activities, group leaders and instructors will need to ensure that they have appropriate insurance cover for themselves and those taking part.

What insurance cover is required?

This will vary depending on many different factors, such as location, number of participants, activities undertaken, and number of days/nights the expedition will be held.

Adult instructors & coaches have a requirement to ensure that the appropriate insurance is in place to cover what you are offering. This could include public liability, professional indemnity, employers’ liability and equipment.

If you are a participant, you may need travel insurance for foreign expeditions, you might also want to consider personal accident cover and check whether expensive equipment is covered on your home insurance policy.

Please talk to us if you are unsure or need to upgrade your policy.

As a parent, what should I be looking out for?

You may want to check that the individual or organisation providing the coaching, leadership, or other services has the appropriate qualifications, experience, and insurance.

Most organised activities have suitable insurance in place, but if the activity you are taking part in does not have adequate insurance cover, you will need to seek the advice of a reputable insurance provider that is used to organise cover for outdoor pursuits.

If your child will be travelling then it will be wise to check that they have the appropriate travel insurance in place, either personally or by the company they are going with.

If your child has an expensive kit or equipment, check whether it is covered by your home insurance.

If you need insurance for your Duke of Edinburgh Award trip, expedition, training or business, please get in touch to discuss your needs and to receive a no-obligation quote on 01905 612336.