Anti-Bullying Policy

APPENDIX 7

The three main types of bullying are:

• physical (e.g. hitting, kicking),
• verbal (e.g. racist remarks, threats, name-calling), and
• emotional (e.g. isolating an individual from activities).

Bullying may take one or all forms of the aforementioned. 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 and accept.

Every club should be prepared to:

• Take the problems seriously.
• Investigate any incidents.
• Talk to bullies and victims separately.

Decide on appropriate action

The Coach should decide on the appropriate action, such as:

• Obtain an apology from the bully(s) to the victim and the parents / carers of the alleged victim.
• Inform parents of the bully(s).
• Insist on the return of items 'borrowed' or stolen.
• Hold club discussions on bullying.
• Provide support for all involved: coaches, victims and bully(s).
• Remind all members of the Code of Conduct they are required to follow.