COVID-19

Definitions
Club means Victoria Community Boccia Club.
GDPR means the General Data Protection Regulation.
Responsible Person means Gemma Mitchell person responsible for data protection within the club.
Register of Systems means a register of all systems or contexts in which personal data is processed by the club.

1) Data protection principles
a) The club is committed to processing data in accordance with its responsibilities under the GDPR.
b) Article 5 of the GDPR requires that personal data shall be:
i) Processed lawfully, fairly and in a transparent manner in relation to individuals;
ii) Collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes and not further processed in a manner that is incompatible with those purposes; further processing for archiving purposes in the public interest, scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes shall not be considered to be incompatible with the initial purposes;
iii) Adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which they are processed;
iv) Accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date; every reasonable step must be taken to ensure that personal data that are inaccurate, having regard to the purposes for which they are processed, are erased or rectified without delay;
v) Kept in a form which permits identification of data subjects for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which the personal data are processed; personal data may be stored for longer periods insofar as the personal data will be processed solely for archiving purposes in the public interest, scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes subject to implementation of the appropriate technical and organisational measures required by the GDPR in order to safeguard the rights and freedoms of individuals; and
vi) Processed in a manner that ensures appropriate security of the personal data, including protection against unauthorised or unlawful processing and against accidental loss, destruction or damage, using appropriate technical or organisational measures.
2) General provisions
a) This policy applies to all personal data processed by the club.
b) The Responsible Person shall take responsibility for the club’s ongoing compliance with this policy.
c) This policy shall be reviewed at least annually.
d) The club shall register with the Information Commissioner’s Office as an organisation that processes personal data if deemed necessary.
3) Lawful, fair and transparent processing
a) To ensure its processing of data is lawful, fair and transparent, the club shall maintain a Register of Systems.
b) The Register of Systems shall be reviewed at least annually.
c) Individuals have the right to access their personal data and any such requests made to the charity shall be dealt with in a timely manner.
4) Lawful purposes
a) All data processed by the club must be done on one of the following lawful bases: consent, contract, legal obligation, vital interests, public task or legitimate interests.
b) The club shall note the appropriate lawful basis in the Register of Systems.
c) Where consent is relied upon as a lawful basis for processing data, evidence of opt-in consent shall be kept with the personal data.
d) Where communications are sent to individuals based on their consent, the option for the individual to revoke their consent should be clearly available and systems should be in place to ensure such revocation is reflected accurately in the club’s systems.
5) Data minimisation
a) The club shall ensure that personal data are adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which they are processed.
b) The club only holds relevant personal information of its members for the duration of their membership for safety purposes.
c) Only relevant persons (Coaches/Club Welfare Officers) at the club will have access to personal information for safety purposes.
d) Personal information will only be shared with Boccia England if written consent is given.
e) Personal information will not be shared with any other third parties unless written consent is obtained.
6) Accuracy
a) The club shall take reasonable steps to ensure personal data is accurate.
b) Where necessary for the lawful basis on which data is processed, steps shall be put in place to ensure that personal data is kept up to date.
c) The club will insist that all members annually fill in a new membership form to ensure the information that the club holds is accurate and relevant.
7) Archiving/removal
a) To ensure that personal data is kept for no longer than necessary, the club shall put in place an archiving policy for each area in which personal data is processed and review this process annually.
b) The archiving policy shall consider what data should/must be retained, for how long, and why.
8) Security
a) The club shall ensure that personal data is stored securely using modern software that is kept-up-to-date.
b) Access to personal data shall be limited to personnel who need access and appropriate security should be in place to avoid unauthorised sharing of information.
c) When personal data is deleted this should be done safely such that the data is irrecoverable.
d) Appropriate back-up and disaster recovery solutions shall be in place.
Breach
In the event of a breach of security leading to the accidental or unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorised disclosure of, or access to, personal data, the club shall promptly assess the risk to people’s rights and freedoms and if appropriate report this breach to the ICO.

Safeguarding Adults Policy

Victoria Community Boccia Club has a strong commitment towards safeguarding children, young people and adults that are at risk and have implemented, follow and adhere to the Boccia England safeguarding children and young people, as well as the safeguarding and protecting adults at risk policies.

In addition to the Boccia England policies, Victoria Community Boccia Club has developed its own safeguarding and protecting children and adults at risk policy and guidelines and will ensure that the procedures set out in the Boccia England policies are followed in the case of any incidents.

The Boccia England policies are found here: www.bocciaengland.org.uk/organisation/policies.

Club child protection policy
Victoria Community Boccia Club acknowledges the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring safeguarding practice reflects statutory responsibilities, government guidance and complies with best practice and Boccia England requirements.

The policy recognises that the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances. It aims to ensure that regardless of age, gender, religion or beliefs, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or socio-economic background, all children; have a positive and enjoyable experience of sport at Victoria Community Boccia Club in a safe and child centred environment and are protected from abuse whilst participating in Boccia or outside of the activity.

Victoria Community Boccia Club acknowledges that some children, including disabled children and young people or those from ethnic minority communities, can be particularly vulnerable to abuse and we accept the responsibility to take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure their welfare.

As part of our safeguarding policy Victoria Community Boccia Club will:

1. Ensure all club coaches, helpers and officials working with young people should read and adhere to the Boccia England safeguarding children and young people policy. The club will follow the guidance of the policy in the event of any concerns or allegations.
2. Promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
3. Ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in respect of safeguarding and is provided with appropriate learning opportunities to recognise, identify and respond to signs of abuse, neglect and other safeguarding concerns relating to children and young people.
4. Ensure appropriate action is taken in the event of incidents/concerns of abuse and support provided to the individual/s who raise or disclose the concern.
5. Ensure that confidential, detailed and accurate records of all safeguarding concerns are maintained and securely stored.
6. Prevent the employment/deployment of unsuitable individuals.
7. The club will ensure that anyone who meets the eligibly criteria for a disclosure check will not be deployed until a satisfactory check has been returned.
8. Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements and procedures are in operation.
9. The club will obtain written contact, and medical details of all club players which will be made known to coaches, where deemed appropriate and/or necessary.
10. The club will identify a person whose role it is to deal with any issues concerning child protection and harassment (club welfare officer) and notify this person to all members. Anyone with concerns with respect to child abuse or harassment should contact that person. If that person is unavailable they can contact the club chairman or the Boccia England lead safeguarding officer.
11. The policy and procedures will be widely promoted and are mandatory for everyone involved in Victoria Community Boccia Club. Failure to comply with the policy and procedures will be addressed without delay and may ultimately result in dismissal/exclusion from the organisation.

Useful contacts

Boccia England
Tel: 0115 967 8455
Website: www.bocciaengland.org.uk

Boccia England Lead Safeguarding Officer – Rachel Miller
Tel: 0115 9678455
Mobile: 07809336321
E-mail: rmiller@bocciaengland.org.uk
Website: www.bocciaengland.org.uk

NSPCC Helpline (24 hours)
Tel: 0808 800 5000
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk

NSPCC – Child Protection in Sport Unit (CSPU)
Tel: 01162 34 7278
E-mail: cpsu@nspcc.org.uk
Website: www.thecpsu.org.uk

Bournemouth and Poole – LSCB (Local Safeguarding Children’s Board)
Tel: 01202 458873
Website: www.bournemouth-poole-lscb.org.uk

Victim Support Helpline:
Tel: 0845 3030 900
Website: www.victimsupport.org.uk

Child line
Tel: 0800 1111
Website: www.childline.org.uk

The Codes of Conduct form the ethical philosophy under which the sport operates. They describe the behaviour that is expected of all within Boccia in England in line with the values of Boccia England, ‘to be honest, fair, respectful, ambitious, excellent, and professional’.

All those involved with Boccia have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of integrity and to ensure that the reputation of the sport is preserved. Failure to adhere to the Codes of Conduct may result in disciplinary action.

Everyone involved in Boccia is expected to adhere to the principles set out in these Codes of Conduct. Some individuals may have multiple roles and are expected to use the respective Code of Conduct for each role.

It is important to note that the Codes of Conduct are expected to be followed by all; whether at a Boccia England organised competition or a locally organised competition; whether part of the National Squad or playing at a local club; and whether or not a member of Boccia England.

Allegations of a safeguarding nature, relating to the breaking of these Codes of Conduct, must follow the reporting procedures as contained in the Boccia England Safeguarding Children and Young People and Safeguarding and Protecting Adults at Risk policies.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR BOCCIA PLAYERS

As a player I will:

• Be honest and play fairly within the rules of the sport and never deliberately cheat or be dishonest.
• Treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.
• Respect and never bully or take unfair advantage of another player, coach, official, classifier or volunteer.
• Abide by the safeguarding guidelines set out by Boccia England for children and young people and adults at risk.
• Not abuse or misuse any relationship of trust or position of power, or influence held by me.
• Report any concerns about a child or adult’s welfare to the Club Welfare Officer or Boccia England Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manner and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other players, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Cooperate with everyone involved in Boccia, including players, coaches, officials, parents/carers, classifiers, volunteers and Boccia England.
• Always play to the best of my ability and give 100% to myself and my team.
• Recognise that I am an ambassador for my sport and act in a way that displays the values of the sport.
• Take responsibility for informing Boccia England, coaches, officials, classifiers and volunteers about any illness, disability or particular support needs to allow me to participate fully.
• Not participate under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not wager on any match or event where I am playing.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in Boccia.
• Not offer or accept any consideration whatsoever with a view to influencing the result of a match.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES

As a coach I will:

• Comply with all rules, regulations and requirements of the sport including any leagues and competitions in which I am involved.
• Treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.
• Respect and never bully or take unfair advantage of another player, coach, official, classifier or volunteer.
• Abide by the safeguarding guidelines set out by Boccia England for Children and Young People, and Adults at Risk.
• Not abuse or misuse any relationship of trust or position of power, or influence held by me.
• Report any concerns about a child or adult’s welfare to the Club Welfare Officer or Boccia England Lead Safeguarding officer.
• Report any suspected misconduct by anyone involved in Boccia.
• Uphold an appropriate boundary between coach and player, especially when one person is under 18 of age. While the coach-player relationship exists, the coach should not only refrain from initiating personal a relationship, but should also discourage any attempt by a player to initiate an intimate personal relationship, explaining the ethical basis of the refusal.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manner and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other coaches, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Be a positive role model for Boccia by acting in a way that projects a positive image of coaching and being fair, considerate and honest with players.
• Be particularly aware of coaching children in a positive way that builds them up and does not use embarrassment or humiliation as a mean of discipline or control.
• Declare any potential conflicts of interest.
• Never argue with an official.
• Cooperate with everyone involved in Boccia; including players, coaches, officials, parents/carers, classifiers, volunteers and Boccia England.
• Display the highest standards in my language, manner, punctuality, preparation, and presentation, ensuring that a player’s time spent with me is positive.
• Ensure the training environment is safe.
• Keep up to date with the latest coaching practices and developments by taking up further coach education and other personal and professional development opportunities.
• Take responsibility for being informed about specific coaching needs of the player and discuss how coaching should be adapted to address these needs.
• Always speak to the player / players in an appropriate manner and ensure they understand my request.
• Wear appropriate coaching uniform, or the uniform provided.
• Always pick up the balls and not throw, kick, or roll the balls to move them while on court.
• Not coach under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not wager on any match or event where I am coaching.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make and an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in Boccia.
• Not offer or accept any consideration whatsoever with a view to influencing the result of a match.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR OFFICIALS

As an official I will:

• Comply with all rules, regulations and requirements of the sport including any leagues and competitions in which I am involved.
• Treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity. Everyone has the right to be protected from abuse.
• Respect and never bully or take unfair advantage of another player, coach, official, classifier or volunteer.
• Abide by the safeguarding guidelines set out by Boccia England for children and young people, and adults at risk.
• Not abuse or misuse any relationship of trust or position of power, or influence held by me.
• Report any concerns about a child or adult’s welfare to the Club Welfare Officer or Boccia England Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Report any suspected misconduct by anyone involved in Boccia.
• Uphold an appropriate boundary between myself and players, especially when one person is under 18 of age. An Official should not only refrain from initiating a personals relationship, but should also discourage any attempt by a player to initiate an intimate personal relationship, explaining the ethical basis of the refusal.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manner and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other officials, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Be a positive role model for Boccia by acting in a way that projects a positive image of officiating and being fair, considerate and honest with players.
• Remember that the game is for the players. Always be fair and impartial and control the game in a manner that will provide a positive experience for all players.
• Declare any potential conflicts of interest.
• Cooperate with everyone involved in boccia. Including players, coaches, officials, parents/carers, classifiers, volunteers and Boccia England.
• Display the highest standards in my language, manner, punctuality, preparation, and presentation, ensuring that a players time spent with me is positive.
• Keep up to date with the latest rules and officiating practices and developments by taking up further officiating education and other personal and professional development opportunities.
• Arrive at the competition on time and well prepared with a clear head. Always check the game schedule and be ready for the next game.
• Respect other referees and their decisions and not publicly criticise another official.
• Stay calm when confronted with emotional reactions from players, assistants, coaches, parents / carers or spectators.
• Always speak to players in an appropriate manner and ensure they understand your request.
• Make decisions with confidence.
• Wear appropriate referees uniform, or the uniform provided by the competition organisers.
• Always pick up the balls and not throw, kick, or roll the balls to move them while on court.
• Not officiate under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not wager on any match or event where I am officiating.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make and an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in Boccia.
• Not offer or accept any consideration whatsoever with a view to influencing the result of a match.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR CLASSIFIERS

As a classifier I will:

• Comply with all rules, regulations and requirements of the sport including any leagues and competitions in which I am involved.
• Treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.
• Respect and never bully or take unfair advantage of another player, coach, official, classifier or volunteer.
• Abide by the safeguarding guidelines set out by Boccia England for children and young people, and adults at risk.
• Not abuse or misuse any relationship of trust or position of power, or influence held by me.
• Report any concerns about a child or adults welfare to the Club Welfare Officer or Boccia England Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Report any suspected miss conduct by anyone involved in Boccia.
• Uphold an appropriate boundary between myself and players, especially when one person is under 18 of age. A Classifier should not only refrain from initiating a personal relationship, but should also discourage any attempt by a player to initiate an intimate personal relationship, explaining the ethical basis of the refusal.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manner and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other classifiers, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Be a positive role model for Boccia by acting in a way that projects a positive image and being fair, considerate and honest with players.
• Treat all discussions with colleagues as confidential.
• Declare any potential conflicts of interest.
• Be courteous, objective, honest and impartial in performing classification duties for all players.
• Cooperate with everyone involved in Boccia, including players, coaches, officials, parents/careers, classifiers, volunteers and Boccia England.
• Cooperate with my fellow classifiers, coaches, officials and volunteers.
• Display the highest standards in my language, manner, punctuality, preparation, and presentation ensuring that a players time spent with me is positive.
• Keep up to date with the latest rules and classifying practices and developments by taking up further classifying education and other personal and professional development opportunities.
• Explain decisions in a calm and measured way.
• Accept responsibility for all actions and decisions taken and be open to discussion and interaction with players and player support personnel.
• Make classification rules widely known and understood by players and player support personnel.
• Always speak to players in an appropriate manor and ensure they understand your request.
• Wear appropriate clothing or the uniform provided.
• Not operate under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not wager on any match or event where I am classifying.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make and an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in Boccia.
• Not offer or accept any consideration whatsoever with a view to influencing the result of a match.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PARENTS AND PA’S

As a parent or PA I will:

• Teach and treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.
• Abide by the safeguarding guidelines set out by Boccia England for children and young people, and adults at risk.
• Report any concerns about a child or adult’s welfare to the Club Welfare Officer or Boccia England Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Report any suspected misconduct by anyone involved in Boccia.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manor and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other parents and PA’S, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Support all efforts to remove verbal, physical and racist abuse from Boccia.
• Not force an unwilling participant to take part in Boccia.
• Encourage all to play by the rules and respect the match officials.
• Never ridicule or shout at a participant for making a mistake or losing a game.
• Teach that effort and teamwork are as important as victory, so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.
• Remember that young people and vulnerable adults learn best by example.
• Take responsibility for informing Boccia England, coaches, officials, classifiers and volunteers about any illness, disability or particular support needs of my child.
• Refrain from publicly questioning the judgement or honesty of match officials.
• Recognise the value and importance of volunteers in Boccia. They give their time, energy and resources to provide recreational activities for others.
• Set a good example by recognising fair play and applauding good performances of all.
• Encourage regular participation in sport.
• Not attend a boccia setting under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not wager on any match or event where I am attending.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in Boccia.
• Not offer or accept any consideration whatsoever with a view to influencing the result of a match.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR VOLUNTEERS

As a volunteer I will:

• Comply with all rules, regulations and requirements of the sport including any leagues and competitions in which I am involved.
• Treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.
• Respect and never bully or take unfair advantage of another player, coach, official, classifier or volunteer.
• Abide by the safeguarding guidelines set out by Boccia England for children and young people and adults at risk.
• Not abuse or misuse any relationship of trust or position of power, or influence held by me.
• Report any concerns about a child or adults welfare to the Club Welfare Officer or Boccia England Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Report any suspected misconduct by anyone involved in boccia.
• Uphold an appropriate boundary between myself and players, especially when one person is under 18 of age. A volunteer should not only refrain from initiating a personals relationship, but should also discourage any attempt by a player to initiate an intimate personal relationship, explaining the ethical basis of the refusal.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manner and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other volunteers, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Be a positive role model for boccia by acting in a way that projects a positive image and being fair, considerate and honest with players.
• Cooperate with everyone involved in boccia, Including players, coaches, officials, parents/careers, classifiers, volunteers and Boccia England.
• Display the highest standards in my language, manor, punctuality, preparation, and presentation ensuring that a player’s time spent with me is positive.
• Always speak to players in an appropriate manor and ensure they understand your request.
• Wear appropriate clothing, or the uniform provided.
• Always pick up the balls and not throw, kick, or roll the balls to move them while on court.
• Not attend a boccia setting under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not wager on any match or event where I am attending.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make and an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in boccia.
• Not offer or accept any consideration whatsoever with a view to influencing the result of a match.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR SPECTATORS

As a spectator I will:

• Treat everyone equally regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity. Everyone has the right to be protected from abuse.
• Remain outside the field of play and in the designated spectator area (where provided).
• Encourage all players irrespective of their ability and never ridicule any individual player regardless of the team they play for.
• Avoid sudden loud noises when a player is preparing or playing a shot.
• Always conduct myself in an appropriate manor and display courtesy and good manners to others.
• Promote the code of conduct to other spectators, especially those new to the sport.
• Abide by the disciplinary sanctions that might be imposed on me.
• Encourage all to play by the rules and respect the match officials.
• Never ridicule or shout at a participant for making a mistake or losing a game.
• Refrain from publicly questioning the judgement or honesty of match officials.
• Not attend a boccia setting under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Not use any form of communication to bring the game into disrepute or make and an inappropriate comment about a fellow player, coach, official, classifier, volunteer or Boccia England, Including but not exclusive of social media, email, direct verbal or physical.
• Not behave in a way that would disrespect or harm anyone involved in Boccia.
• Not distract anyone involved in the game in any way at all.

This club is committed to ensuring that equity is incorporated across all aspects of its development. In doing so it acknowledges and adopts the following Sport England definition of sports equity:

Sports equity is about fairness in sport, equality of access, recognising inequalities and taking steps to address them. It is about changing the culture and structure of sport to ensure it becomes equally accessible to everyone in society.

The club respects the rights, dignity and worth of every person. The club will therefore provide an environment suitable to the nature of the club where everyone will be treated equally within the context of boccia, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religious belief, sexuality or social/economic status.

The club is committed to provide according to its ability and in a safe environment the opportunity for everyone to enjoy their sport in an environment free from threat of intimidation, harassment and abuse.

All club members have a responsibility to oppose discriminatory behaviour and promote equality of opportunity.

The club will deal with any incidents of discriminatory behaviour seriously, according to club disciplinary procedures.

Within Boccia, there is a commitment to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all players so they can take part in a relaxed and secure atmosphere regardless of their age or background.

Quite simply, bullying of any kind is unacceptable in our club.

If bullying does occur, all members should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively.

This means that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the Welfare Officer as soon as they have concerns.

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 be:

• Emotional – being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g. threatening gestures)
• Physical – pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
• Racist – racial taunts, graffiti, gestures
• Sexual – unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments
• Homophobic – because of, or focussing on the issue of sexuality
• Sexist – belittling someone because of their gender
• Verbal name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, teasing

WHAT IS CYBER BULLYING?

• Any issues relating to the internet, such as email, social media & internet chat room misuse.
• Mobile threats by text messaging & calls
• Misuse of associated technology, i.e. camera &video facilities

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO RESPOND TO BULLYING?

Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the right to be treated with respect. The sport has a responsibility to respond promptly and effectively to issues of bullying.

OBJECTIVES OF THIS POLICY

• All members, coaches, volunteers and parents should have an understanding of what bullying is.
• All members, coaches and volunteers should know what the policy is on bullying, and follow it when bullying is reported.
• All players and parents should know what the policy is on bullying, and what they should do if bullying arises.
• As a sport, we take bullying seriously. Anyone involved in Bowls or Boccia should be assured that they will be supported when bullying is reported.

Very simply – Bullying will not be tolerated.

PROCEDURES

• Report bullying incidents to the Club Welfare Officer, member of the club committee or an adult you can trust.
• In cases of serious bullying, the incidents will be referred to Boccia England’s Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• In serious cases parents should be informed and asked to come in 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.
• If mediation fails and the bullying continues further disciplinary action will be taken.

RECOMMENDED CLUB ACTION

If the club decides it is appropriate for them to deal with the situation they should follow the procedure outlined below:

1. Reconciliation by getting the parties together. It may be that a genuine apology solves the problem.
2. If this fails or is not appropriate, a small panel of club officers should meet with the parent and child making the allegation to obtain more information. This panel will normally include the Welfare Officer. Minutes should be taken for clarity, which should be agreed by all as a true account.
3. The same panel should meet with the alleged bully and parent/s, detail the allegation and allow them an opportunity of reply. Minutes should again be taken and agreed.
4. If it is considered that bullying has taken place, the individual should be warned and put on notice of further action if the bullying continues, i.e. temporary or permanent suspension. Consideration should be given as to whether a reconciliation meeting between parties is appropriate at this time. The club committee should monitor the situation for a given period to ensure the bullying is not repeated.
5. All appropriate coaches, volunteers or team managers involved with both individuals should be made aware of the concerns and outcome of the process i.e. the warning.

OUTCOMES

1. The bully/bullies may be asked to apologise.
2. In serious cases, suspension or exclusion will be considered.
3. If possible, the people concerned will be reconciled.
4. Monitoring should be put in place to ensure repeated bullying does not take place.

PREVENTION

1. The club will have a written constitution, which includes what is acceptable and proper behaviour for all members of which the anti-bullying policy is one part.
2. All club members and parents of young bowlers should sign a code of conduct on an annual basis. The code of conduct should include reference to bullying.
3. The Club Welfare Officer will raise awareness about bullying and why it matters.