Mendip Outdoor Pursuits and Activities xxx

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01934 834 877

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  Are you open to the general public?

  Yes, but all activities require pre-booking. Some activities need to be set-up, or we may need specialist trainers on the premises, so we need to know in advance who is coming.

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  Can we book on the day?

  No, sorry, for most activities we need at least 24 hours notice.

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  How do I book?

  Following an initial enquiry we will happily make a provisional booking to ensure your ideal date and activities are reserved. All the details for your event will then be sent to you in writing with a booking form. Simply complete the booking form and return it with a small deposit to confirm your event.

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  How long has Mendip Outdoor Pursuits been operating?

  First opened in 1987 and have been operating in the South West ever since.

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  What qualifications do the instructors have?

  All instructors are qualified in the activities they instruct. All have a first aid qualification and those that work (not walk!) on water have water rescue qualifications. For high elements the Single Pitch Award from the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is the norm and for remoter walking either Summer Mountain Leader or Walking Group Leader also BMC qualifications.
  
  Kayaking is run by British Canoe Union (BCU) Level 2 or above coaches.
  
  All other activities are covered by a carefully designed in-house training system. Qualifications are available for inspection.

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  What are the ratios on activities?

  On the majority of activities the ratio is 1:8 but we never exceed the ratio advised by the Governing Body of that sport.

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  What about the weather?

  What about it? On the whole activities are carried out regardless of the weather. Each morning and just before starting any activity an assessment is made about the weather. Sometimes strong winds can make kayaking unsafe or winter cold may make surfing unsuitable. In these cases great alternatives will be found. Safety is never compromised.

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  How safe is it?

  
  

  There is risk in all we do in life and outdoor activities are no exception. We cannot say there is no risk but careful management reduces this to a very acceptable level.
  
  We are regularly inspected by several bodies: Adventure Activities Licensing Authority, BCU, Health & Safety Executive, many Local Education Authority inspectors, the insurance company, and company health & safety departments. Furthermore, we regularly review risk assessments on all the activities.
  
  The BMC have published a booklet 'Young People - Climbing, Hill Walking, Mountaineering - A Parents Guide' which contains a good explanation of the risks associated with activities. Please click here to download the document.

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  Will I be made to do the activities?

  Certainly not, the staff at Mendip Outdoor Pursuits are all very experienced at encouraging clients to participate and make the most of their experience with us but we will never force anyone to take part.

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  How secure is it for young clients?

  All our activity venues are risk assessed. Firstly they will never be at a site unsupervised and our staff ratio ensures that we have enough eyes to monitor young people at all times. When we use public venues care is taken to ensure young people.

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  Will there be other groups at the same site at the same time?

  In some instances yes. We are always very careful with our client mix. However, we will never mix groups and each client will have an instructor in charge to ensure everyone knows what's happening at a venue.

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  I have a food allergy, will I still be able to eat!?

  Of course, if we are providing food we can cater for all dietary requirements.

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  What equipment do I need to bring?

  Only personal effects - clothes, shoes, towels etc but you will be sent a kit list before you come. All adventure equipment is provided, it is modern, checked regularly and has quality standards where available.

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  What about transport to activities?

  Many clients will meet us at the activity site. For those clients that would like us to provide transport we either use a local coach company or, one of our minibuses. These are PCV vehicles run under an operators license and as such checked very regularly. All drivers have PCV licences. Of course working seat belts are provided to each forward facing seat.