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SportsCool Cheshire Anti Bullying Policy

 

At SportsCool Cheshire we take bullying very seriously and have a zero tolerance policy. We want children to come to us ready to enjoy the day, free from negativity. As such, it is vital that our staff and carers inform the lead coach on site of any incidents. We also promote to children that they inform us of any unkind behaviours. We ask that carers and children read our code of conduct prior to attending our camps. 

 

The SportsCool code of conduct includes expected and not acceptable behaviour.  Our aim is to provide fun, inclusive, positive and harmonious play between our children and we appreciate your support to ensure this happens.

 

Some of our children will have experienced multiple rejections and exclusion in their lives. As a result, most will display behaviours which will test the boundaries of others. We are aware that some challenging behaviour is a way of communication and they may not have the stability to understand their behaviour may affect others. As such, we conduct a 1:1 call with the carer (and child where appropriate) prior, to clarify if and how  we can support them appropriately. However a zero tolerance anti bullying policy is still applicable for all children attending the camp. 

 

If carers disclose a child has an additional need, we will conduct 1:1 calls with carers and their children to ensure they are aware of the coaches on site. We will ensure a plan is in place to manage needs and triggers based on a person centred need. It is vital that carers are honest with us, to enable the best outcome for the child. However, as previously mentioned a zero anti bullying tolerance policy is still applicable for all children attending the camp. 


 

Bullying

We take bullying very seriously. Bullying is the persistent verbal or physical abuse of another child/peer. It can be characterised by an intent to hurt the individual physically or emotionally and is often planned. Individual is usually aware of the impact they will have on their peer, thus bullying behaviours. 

 

If a child bullies another child or children:

  1. We show respect and listen to the children and their concerns and we act upon them.

  2. We will immediately intervene to stop the bullying and stop the child who is causing harm to others immediately. 

  3. We will help the child who is bullied to recognise their actions and the impact they could have on others. The child will be given a verbal warning and explained it is unacceptable behaviour.

  4. We will give reassurance to the child or children who have been bullied.

  5. We will recognise positive behaviour by the child who has been bullied and promote positive feedback for considerate behaviour and is given opportunities to practise and reflect on considerate behaviour.

  6. We do not label children who bully as ‘bullies’.

  7. We recognise that children who bully may be experiencing bullying themselves, or be subject to abuse or other circumstances causing them to express their anger in negative ways towards others; However, we still promote and act upon a zero-tolerance policy.

  8. We do not insist that they say sorry unless it is clear that they feel genuine and understand how their actions have impacted other children. We do not force an apology and do not accept empty apologies as these are just as hurtful.

  9. We discuss what has happened with the carers of the child who did the bullying and work out with them a plan for handling the child’s behaviour. We do not name the child who has been bullied by the carers.

  10. We share what has happened with the carers of the child who has been bullied, explaining that the child who did the bullying is being helped to adopt more acceptable ways of behaving. We do not name the child who has done the bullying to the carers.

  11. If the behaviour persists we will follow the behaviour policy and conduct the principles, which could lead to exclusion.

 

Carer’s Responsibilities and Code of Conduct

  1. To be aware of the rules and expectations of the club.

  2. To share honest information with staff on your child’s development, health and wellbeing, including triggers and additional needs. 

  3. Inform us in advance if someone else is collecting your child and give them a password.

  4. To collect your child on time – if you are going to be unavoidably late then please contact the club to let them know.

  5. To direct any worries, concerns or complaints to the lead coach or head office and arrange a meeting if required.

  6. To make your children aware of what is acceptable behaviour.

  7. To encourage independence and self-discipline.

  8. To show interest in what their children do.

  9. To support the club in the implication of this policy.

 

Please refrain from:

  1. Using inappropriate language or displaying aggressive or threatening behaviour towards the staff, children or other parents/carers either in person, on the phone, by text message, email or in writing.

  2. Shouting at, smacking or physically punishing your child, or any other children, whilst in the club.

  3. Collecting your child after the consumption of alcohol, medication or other substances that have affected your judgement or responses.

  4. Discuss sensitive issues within hearing distance of your child, or other children.

  5. Respecting everybody’s protected characteristics such as race,  gender, sexuality, and additional needs and demonstrating inclusion to your children.

  6. Take photos or video recordings of children, other than your own.

 

If Parents have any queries and would like to speak to Head Office regarding our Behavioural Management Policy, please call our team on 07450 520 612 who will be happy to help.

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