Anti Bullying Policy at Glaslough Villa
This policy applies to all club activities, both in person and online, including training sessions, matches, social events, and online communications (e.g., social media, messaging platforms). The policy seeks to prevent bullying, address incidents promptly, and support those affected.
1. Purpose
The purpose of this Anti-Bullying Policy is to:
Define what constitutes bullying.
Promote awareness of bullying prevention.
Provide clear procedures for reporting and addressing bullying incidents.
Ensure a supportive and safe environment for all club members.
2. Definition of Bullying
Bullying is defined as repeated, unwanted, and intentional behaviour that causes harm or distress to another person.
It can take many forms, including:
Physical Bullying: Hitting, pushing, or other forms of physical aggression.
Verbal Bullying: Name-calling, teasing, insults, or threats.
Emotional/Psychological Bullying: Exclusion, humiliation, or spreading rumours.
Cyberbullying: Harassment, threats, or abuse using electronic means such as social media, messaging apps, or emails. Bullying may occur between players, coaches, staff members, or spectators. It can target individuals or groups and is often based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other personal characteristics, in violation of the Equal Status Acts 2000-2018.
3. Irish Legal Framework
The Anti-Bullying Policy is guided by several key pieces of Irish legislation and best practice guidelines:
Children First Act 2015: This act mandates the protection and safeguarding of children (under 18) and requires that any incidents of bullying involving minors are reported to the relevant authorities.
Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997: Covers physical harm, harassment, and threats.
Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015: Protects individuals from bullying or harassment in the workplace based on protected characteristics such as gender, race, and disability.
Defamation Act 2009: Prevents damaging an individual’s reputation through false statements, which may be relevant to verbal bullying and online abuse.
Digital Safety and Protection: Compliance with guidelines set out by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner regarding online safety and privacy.
4. Responsibilities of the Club
Glaslough Villa FC has a responsibility to:
Ensure that all members, staff, players, and volunteers are aware of this policy and understand their role in preventing bullying.
Promote a culture of respect and inclusivity within the club.
Investigate all reported cases of bullying in a fair and confidential manner.
Provide support for victims of bullying, including counselling if necessary.
Take appropriate disciplinary action against those found to be engaging in bullying behaviour.
5. Responsibilities of Club Members
All members of Glaslough Villa FC are expected to:
Treat others with respect and avoid any behaviour that could be perceived as bullying.
Encourage a culture of inclusivity and kindness in all club activities.
Report any observed or experienced incidents of bullying to club officials.
Support victims of bullying and ensure they feel safe within the club.
6. Reporting and Addressing Bullying
Glaslough Villa FC has established clear procedures for reporting bullying:
Reporting: Any individual (whether a player, parent, staff member, or spectator) who experiences or witnesses bullying should report it immediately to the Club Welfare Officer or any club official.
Confidentiality: Reports of bullying will be treated with the utmost confidentiality to protect the privacy of all parties involved.
Investigation: The club will carry out a thorough investigation of all bullying reports. This may include interviews with the victim, alleged perpetrator, and witnesses.
Resolution: Where bullying is confirmed, the club will take appropriate action, which may include:
7. Support for Victims
Glaslough Villa FC is committed to supporting anyone affected by bullying. This may include:
Counselling or mental health support.
Mediation between the parties involved (if appropriate).
Ongoing monitoring to ensure the behaviour does not recur.
For minors, we work closely with parents or guardians to ensure the child's well-being.
We are also guided by the Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, ensuring that children who experience bullying receive the care and protection they need.
8. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
As online communication becomes more common, Glaslough Villa FC is particularly vigilant about cyberbullying. Any bullying or harassment via digital platforms (social media, messaging apps, etc.) will be treated with the same seriousness as offline bullying. The club will:
Monitor online behaviour in club-affiliated platforms.
Take action against any cyberbullying that targets club members, players, or staff.
Comply with Data Protection Act 2018 guidelines to protect personal information shared in online spaces.
9. Disciplinary Action
Bullying is a serious offense and will result in appropriate disciplinary action. Depending on the severity of the incident, consequences may include:
Warnings: Formal warning for minor, first-time incidents.
Suspension: Temporary suspension from the club or specific activities.
Expulsion: In severe or repeat cases, individuals may be permanently expelled from the club.
Reporting to Authorities: Where necessary, incidents may be reported to relevant legal or child protection authorities in compliance with Irish law.
10. Policy Review
This Anti-Bullying Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with changes in Irish law, best practice recommendations from Sport Ireland, and feedback from club members. Any updates will be communicated to all members of the club.
Relevant Irish Legal Frameworks
Children First Act 2015: Outlines legal obligations for the protection of children from bullying and abuse.
Equal Status Acts 2000-2018: Prohibits discrimination and bullying based on specific protected characteristics.
Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015: Ensures a bully-free workplace for staff and volunteers.
Data Protection Act 2018: Protects personal data from misuse in online and offline contexts.
Glaslough Villa FC
Founded 1990