Anti-Bullying Policy
1. Purpose
We are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive football environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. This policy sets out our approach to preventing and addressing bullying within the club.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- Players (especially children and young people)
- Coaches, volunteers, and officials
- Parents, carers, and spectators
It applies at:
- Training sessions
- Matches (home and away)
- Club events
- Online and social media activity
3. What is Bullying?
Bullying is behaviour that is repeated, intentional, and causes harm or distress.
It can include:
- Verbal: name-calling, insults, threats
- Physical: hitting, pushing, damaging belongings
- Emotional: exclusion, intimidation, humiliation
- Online (cyberbullying): abusive messages, posts, or sharing images
- Discriminatory bullying: targeting someone because of a protected characteristic (e.g. race, disability, gender, religion, sexual orientation)
4. Our Commitment
We will:
- Take a zero tolerance approach to bullying
- Act quickly to stop and address bullying behaviour
- Support anyone affected by bullying
- Promote a culture of respect, kindness, and inclusion
- Encourage all members to speak out
Bullying is never acceptable and will always be taken seriously.
5. Anti-Racism and Inclusion
In line with the Anti-racist Wales Action Plan:
- We recognise that bullying can be linked to discrimination and inequality
- Racist bullying will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter
- We actively promote inclusion and challenge prejudice
6. Responsibilities
Club Committee
- Ensure this policy is implemented
- Respond appropriately to incidents
- Promote a positive club culture
Coaches & Volunteers
- Create a safe and inclusive environment
- Be alert to signs of bullying
- Take immediate action when concerns arise
Players
- Treat teammates and others with respect
- Speak out if they experience or witness bullying
- Support others who may be affected
Parents/Carers
- Encourage positive behaviour
- Report concerns to the club
- Support the club’s approach to resolving issues
7. Signs of Bullying
Possible signs may include:
- Sudden changes in behaviour or mood
- Withdrawal from activities
- Reluctance to attend training or matches
- Unexplained injuries or damaged belongings
These signs should always be taken seriously.
8. Reporting Bullying
Bullying concerns should be reported to:
- A coach or team manager
- The Club Safeguarding Officer
All reports will:
1. Be taken seriously
2. Be recorded
3. Be acted upon promptly
Serious concerns may be referred to the Football Association of Wales or relevant authorities if required.
9. Responding to Bullying
We will:
- Listen to all parties involved
- Take appropriate action to stop the behaviour
- Support the person affected
- Apply disciplinary measures where necessary
- Monitor the situation to prevent recurrence
Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of the individual affected.
10. Disciplinary Action
Bullying behaviour may result in:
- Warnings
- Temporary suspension
- Removal from training or matches
- Permanent exclusion from the club (in serious cases)
Incidents involving discrimination or repeated bullying will be dealt with more severely. This will be at the discretion of the club Safeguarding Officer to determine the best course of action.
11. Prevention
We will:
- Promote respect through coaching and club culture
- Encourage teamwork and inclusion
- Provide clear codes of conduct
- Educate members on acceptable behaviour
12. Monitoring and Review
- This policy will be reviewed annually
- Updated in line with safeguarding and FAW guidance
- Feedback from members will be considered
13. Contact Details
- Club Safeguarding Officer: Samantha Mullins
- Email: contact@bellevue-fc.cymru
- FAW Safeguarding: safeguarding@faw.cymru