Our Commitment

At Letchworth Garden City Eagles, we are committed to providing a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for all our members, from our youngest players at 4 years old to our adult teams. We believe that everyone has the right to enjoy football in a space free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying. Our anti-bullying policy is designed to support this belief and to ensure that all participants feel respected, valued, and protected.

Definition of Bullying

Bullying is intentional, repetitive behaviour that aims to hurt someone physically, emotionally, or socially. It involves an imbalance of power, where the individual being bullied finds it difficult to defend themselves. Bullying can occur in various forms, including but not limited to:

• Verbal: Name-calling, insults, teasing, intimidation, homophobic or racist remarks.
• Physical: Hitting, pushing, tripping, or any use of violence.
• Social: Excluding someone from a group, spreading rumours, sharing Embarrassing information.
• Cyberbullying: Using digital platforms to harass, threaten, or target someone.

Examples of Bullying in Football

• A coach or player making fun of someone’s skill level, appearance, or personal circumstances.
• Team members excluding someone from activities or group communications without a valid reason.
• A spectator directing abusive language or gestures towards players, officials, or other spectators.

Prevention Strategies

Our club takes a proactive approach to prevent bullying. This includes:

• Education: Regularly educating players, coaches, parents and volunteers about bullying and its impact.
• Communication: Encouraging open dialogue about expectations for behaviour and the importance of respect and teamwork.
• Inclusion: Ensuring all activities promote inclusion, diversity and equality.
• Monitoring: Observing interactions and dynamics within teams and the club.

Reporting and Responding to Bullying

If you witness or experience bullying within our club, we urge you to report it immediately to a trusted coach, volunteer, or club official. Our response procedure includes:

• Immediate Assessment: The report will be promptly assessed to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
• Investigation: A thorough and confidential investigation will be conducted. Appropriate actions, which may include mediation, disciplinary measures, or involving external authorities, will be taken based on the findings.
• Action: Support will be offered to the victim and, where appropriate, to the perpetrator to address their behaviour.
• Support: At Letchworth Garden City Eagles, we are dedicated to maintaining a nurturing environment where passion for football can be pursued without fear of bullying. This policy reflects our commitment to safeguarding the physical and emotional welfare of our club members. Together, we can create a respectful and supportive football community.

Conclusion

At Letchworth Garden City Eagles, we are dedicated to maintaining a nurturing environment where passion for football can be pursued without fear of bullying. This policy reflects our commitment to safeguarding the physical and emotional welfare of our club members. Together, we can create a respectful and supportive football community.