Anti Bullying Policy Statement

Bulling is not easy to define, can take many forms and is usually repeated over a period of time. The three main types of bulling are: physical (e.g. hitting, kicking), verbal (e.g. racist remarks, threats, name calling), emotional (e.g. isolating an individual from activities). They will include: 

• Deliberate hostility and aggression towards the victim.

• A victim who is weaker than the bully or bullies.

• An outcome which is always painful and distressing for the victim.

Bullying behaviour may also include: 

• Other forms of violence.

• Sarcasm, spreading rumours, persistent teasing or theft.

• Tormenting, ridiculing, humiliation.

• Racial taunts, graffiti, gestures.

• Unwanted physical contact or abusive/offensive comments of a sexual nature.

Emotional and verbal bullying is more likely however it is more difficult to cope with or prove. It is of paramount importance that all clubs develop their own anti bullying policy to which all its members, coaches, players, staff and volunteers and parents subscribe to and accept.

Every club should be prepared to: 

• Take the problem seriously.

• Investigate any incidents.

• Talk to bullies and victims separately.

Decide on appropriate action, such as: 

• Obtain an apology from the bully(ies) to the victim.

• Inform parents of the bully(ies).

• Insist on the return of items ‘borrowed’ or stolen.

• Insist bullies compensate the victim.

• Hold club discussions on bullying.

• Provide support for the coach of the victim.