What we mean by bullying
Bullying can include repeated physical, verbal, emotional or online behaviour intended to hurt, frighten, isolate, embarrass or undermine another person. It can also include discriminatory language or behaviour and the harmful sharing of images, videos or personal information.
Our expectations
- Players should treat one another with respect and include teammates.
- Coaches and adults should challenge bullying and discriminatory behaviour.
- Concerns should be listened to and taken seriously.
- No child should be expected to deal with bullying alone.
- Parents and carers will be involved appropriately when concerns affect their child.
How we respond
The club will seek to establish what has happened, protect the child affected and address the behaviour promptly. Serious or repeated concerns may be escalated through club disciplinary procedures and, where safeguarding thresholds are met, to Cumberland FA, The FA or other appropriate authorities.
Reporting bullying
Players can speak to a parent, carer, coach, Welfare Officer or another trusted adult. Adults who become aware of possible bullying should report it rather than assuming someone else will deal with it.
These club pages should be read alongside current FA and Cumberland FA safeguarding guidance. Where national or County FA procedures are updated, those procedures take precedence.