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Anti-Bullying Policy

Purpose​

This policy aims to ensure that Hanworth Villa FC provides a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where bullying is not tolerated and all members feel protected and supported.

Scope​

This policy applies to:

  • Players (youth and adult)
  • Coaches and team officials
  • Club volunteers and staff
  • Parents, guardians, and spectators
  • Any person involved in club activities, including online communications

It covers all club-related activities: training, matches, tournaments, events, and online forums (social media, messaging platforms).

Principles / Commitments​

Hanworth Villa FC is committed to:

  • Preventing bullying of any kind.
  • Promoting a culture of respect, inclusion, and positive behaviour.
  • Responding promptly and appropriately to all allegations of bullying.
  • Supporting victims and educating perpetrators to prevent recurrence.
  • Encouraging open communication and a "speak-up" culture.

Responsibilities​

Club Management​

  • Promote and enforce this policy.
  • Train coaches and officials in recognising and responding to bullying.
  • Ensure anti-bullying posters, messages, and guidance are visible at club venues.

Coaches and Officials​

  • Foster a team culture of inclusion and mutual respect.
  • Watch for signs of bullying and intervene early.
  • Report all bullying concerns to the Club Welfare Officer.

Players​

  • Treat teammates, opponents, and others with respect.
  • Speak up if they witness or experience bullying.
  • Support teammates who are being bullied.

Parents and Guardians​

  • Encourage children to treat others kindly.
  • Report concerns about bullying behaviour to club officials.
  • Support the club’s approach to handling bullying.

Procedures / Expectations​

What is Bullying?​

Bullying is repeated behaviour intended to hurt someone physically or emotionally, including:

  • Verbal bullying: Name-calling, insults, threats, or offensive jokes.
  • Physical bullying: Hitting, pushing, kicking, or other forms of violence.
  • Social bullying: Excluding someone, spreading rumours, public humiliation.
  • Cyberbullying: Online harassment via messaging apps, social media, or email.

Reporting Bullying​

  • Reports can be made to a coach, team manager, or the Club Welfare Officer.
  • Reports should include as much detail as possible (who, what, when, where).
  • Anonymous reporting is accepted but may limit the investigation.

Club Response​

  • All reports will be treated seriously and confidentially.
  • The Club Welfare Officer will oversee the investigation.
  • If bullying is confirmed, the club will take appropriate action, including:
    • Mediation between parties (where appropriate)
    • Warnings, suspensions, or removal from the club
    • Referral to external authorities if necessary

Disciplinary Action​

Consequences for bullying may include:

  • Verbal warning and educational intervention
  • Written warning
  • Suspension from club activities
  • Permanent exclusion from the club
  • Referral to external agencies (police, safeguarding authorities)

Monitoring and Review​

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Club, or sooner if significant incidents occur.
Feedback from players, coaches, and parents will help improve bullying prevention strategies.