Anti-Bullying Policy
Statement of intent
We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our children so they can train, and play, in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all children should be able to tell, and know, incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a TELLING club. This means anyone who knows bullying is happening is expected to tell staff and officials.
All officials, coaching and non-coaching staff, parents and children should know what the club policy is on bullying, and follow it when bullying is reported.
What is bullying?
Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim.
Bullying can take many forms some of which we’ve listed below:
- Emotional: being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting - hiding kit or making threatening gestures
- Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
- Racist: racial taunts, graffiti and/or gestures
- Verbal: name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours and teasing
- Cyber: internet, text message or calls. Misuse of associated technology, eg camera and video
Some signs and symptoms – adults should investigate if a child:
- Says they are being bullied
- Changes their usual routine
- Is unwilling to go to the club
- Becomes anxious, withdrawn or lacks confidence.
- Has possessions which are damaged or go missing
- Comes home with clothes torn or belongings damaged
Refer to ECB guidelines for further examples.
Procedures
- Report bullying incidents to the Chair of Junior Cricket or Club Safeguarding Officer
- In cases of serious bullying, the incidents will be reported to the ECB Child Protection Team for advice via the County Safeguarding Officer
- Parents should be informed and will be asked to come to a meeting to discuss the problem
- If necessary, and appropriate, police will be consulted
- The bullying behaviour or threats of bullying must be investigated and the bullying stopped quickly
- An attempt will be made to help the bully (bullies) change their behaviour
Prevention
We use KIDSCAPE methods to help children prevent bullying. As and when appropriate, these may include:
- Writing a set of club rules
- Having discussions about bullying and why it matters
- Writing a code of conduct
For further information go to www.kidscape.org.uk
