1. Players who have paid their subscription have the right to attend and participate in a club night unless they are suspended by the Club or BE
2. Visitors can only attend by prior agreement with the Secretary or a delegated representative
3. Visitors can only play if they pay the visitor fee
4. Members and visitors shall abide by BE rules and policies
5. Members and visitors shall abide by BE and the Club Code of Conduct, rules and policies
6. Truro badminton Club is an inclusive Club in which all members have an equal opportunity to play badminton on Club night. To ensure match play is fair a Selection Board is used.
7. Members should ensure they place their name tag on the Board when they are available to play and remove it when they are unavailable. 
8. Members add their name tag in their turn at the end of the line of name tags of those who arrived before them: to ensure “first come-first serve”.
9. The first member in the list picks the players for the next match on the next available free court. Players must only be picked from those available up to the marked line. Players can only be picked from just beyond the line in exceptional circumstances: eg when a vulnerable player needs to play with certain players or when a fourth person is needed to make up a level doubles match which could otherwise not be played (usually a fourth female when there are three in the selection area).
10. When players have been selected for a match and a court becomes available the players tags are moved to the court part of the board. The waiting player tags are then moved together to fill the space and a new player is in the first, the choosing, position.
11. When a match has finished, the players should move their name tags to the end of the line of available players. The winning pair will be put before the losing pair.
12. When the Club is busy, with players waiting, players for the next available court should be selected in advance of a court becoming available.
13. Members or visitors who do not follow these rules will be given a verbal warning in the first instance and a reminder of the rules. Persistent abuse of selection will lead to referral to a Disciplinary Panel. In particular:
    1. Members or visitors who take players from beyond the line mean that some members get more matches than others and is unfair. Members who do so will be given a verbal warning in the first instance. Persistent abuse of selection will lead to referral to a Disciplinary Panel.
    1. Members or visitors who deliberately “jump the queue” by moving tags or placing tags further up the line of waiting players are cheating and will be given a verbal warning in the first instance. Persistent abuse of selection will lead to referral to a Disciplinary Panel.

1.    Introduction

1. Truro badminton Club is committed to the development of Badminton that is safe for all, ensuring all those involved in the sport can enjoy the game in an inclusive and welcoming environment. 
   1. These Disciplinary Regulations provide a framework to ensure any Complaints or concerns about individuals or organisations are dealt with fairly, transparently and expeditiously at all levels within Badminton England. 
   1. These Regulations have been approved for adoption by the Committee. 
   1. The Regulations are for matters relating to Complaints and Disciplinary Issues only. 
   1. The Regulations form part of the rules of membership of Truro Badminton Club. 
   1. It is important that everyone involved in badminton at any level understands the Regulations and demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the highest possible standards in the sport for the enjoyment of all involved in the game. 
   1. All Members of Truro Badminton Club are required to ensure all Persons under the jurisdiction of Badminton England are expressly bound by, and that their attention is drawn to, these Regulations.

1.8.  Submission of a Complaint

1. A Complaint should be submitted in writing and include sufficient details of the incident complained of so as to identify the Complainant, the Person complained about and the Disciplinary Issue complained of.

2.     Managing a Complaint

• On receipt of a Complaint Truro Badminton Club Committee shall appoint a disciplinary Hearing Panel and may delegate the operation and maintenance of the Rules and Regulations to this Panel. 

3.     The Disciplinary Panel

• The Disciplinary Hearing Panel must consist of 3 people who are members of the Club.
  • No person may sit on the Disciplinary Hearing Panel where they have had any prior involvement in the case or matter, or has any material financial or other relevant interest in the outcome of the proceedings. 
  • The Disciplinary Hearing Panel shall appoint a Disciplinary Officer. 
    • The Disciplinary Officer must be a fully paid member, act on behalf of the Club and be the first point of contact 
    • The Disciplinary Officer must ensure the Committee acts fairly towards all registered coaches, county squad players, affiliated Members and volunteers of the Member Organisation and any other persons when investigating and dealing with Disciplinary Issues;
  • The Disciplinary will select a suitable Chair of the Disciplinary Hearing Panel from the Disciplinary Hearing Panel members. 

4.     The Disciplinary Officer

• The Disciplinary Officer must: 
  • Acknowledge receipt of the Complaint within 14 days of its receipt; 
  • Investigate the Complaint as soon as practicable; and within 14 days of receipt of the Complaint, inform the Person complained of the substance of the Complaint and invite them to provide a written response within a further 14 days (or such longer period as the Disciplinary/Designated Officer determines). However, if the Disciplinary/Designated Officer considers that providing this information to the Person complained of at this time may prejudice this, or any other investigation, then no such disclosure should be made. Where this is the case, the information must be provided to the Person complained of once there is no longer the potential for prejudicing the investigation. 

5.     Conclusion of investigation.

• Once the Disciplinary/Designated Officer has concluded their investigation into the Complaint they may: 
  • Decide that no further action is required and must notify the Complainant and Person complained about (provided they have already been notified of the Complaint);
  • Reject the Complaint on the basis that it does not fall within the scope of these Regulations and, if appropriate, refer the Complainant to any other relevant procedures; 
  • Dismiss the Complaint on the grounds that it is vexatious or malicious; or there is insufficient evidence to warrant further action (in which case there is no right of appeal but a case may be re-examined if further evidence is later forthcoming); and notify the Complainant and Person complained about.
  • Refer the Complainant to another authority deemed more appropriate in practice or law to handle the Complaint, including but not limited to, the police for criminal matters; 
  • Deal with the Complaint informally by way of advice or information where the issue is not sufficiently serious to warrant disciplinary proceedings; 
  • Deal with the Complaint by mediation, with the mediator to be nominated by the Disciplinary Committee (or the Case Management Group for safeguarding issues); or 
  • Refer the Complaint to Badminton England Disciplinary Officer to choose the most appropriate course of action; 
  • Where an individual has been charged with a criminal offence or is the subject of an investigation by the police, social services or any other public or investigatory authority (or where this becomes the case during any disciplinary proceedings) in respect of conduct which is, or may be grounds for disciplinary action, the Disciplinary (or Designated) Officer shall seek advice from the relevant agency. Specifically, advice should be sought as to whether or not further consideration of the matter by Badminton England should be postponed pending the outcome of any such proceedings/investigation and as to whether in the meantime an Interim Suspension under these Regulations should be imposed. 
  • Refer the Complaint to the relevant Disciplinary Hearing Panel. 
  • At the conclusion of an investigation the Disciplinary (or Designated) Officer shall report to the Disciplinary Committee or Case Management Group (as the case may be). The Disciplinary Committee (or Case Management Group) shall decide the appropriate course of action. 
  • Prior to reaching a decision the Disciplinary Committee (or Case Management Group) may direct that further enquiries be undertaken. 
  • If the Individual Concerned admits the Complaint or Allegation and the Disciplinary Committee (or Case Management Group) determines there are grounds for disciplinary action the matter can be dealt with either through Summary Procedures or by referral to a Disciplinary Hearing Panel. 
  • If the Individual Concerned does not admit the Complaint or Allegation and the Disciplinary Committee (or Case Management Group) determines there are grounds for disciplinary action the matter must be referred to a Disciplinary Hearing Panel. 
  • It may refer the case to the Badminton England Disciplinary Committee if they deem the issue is particularly complex or is serious and may merit a sanction the Member Organisation Disciplinary Committee cannot impose. 
  • In addition to consideration of disciplinary action, the Disciplinary Committee (or Case Management Group) may direct that a referral, if appropriate, is made to another agency, regulatory body or sport National Governing Body. 
  • If satisfied the investigation has established there is no case to answer, the case shall be dismissed and all concerned parties should be advised without delay. 

6.     Procedure before a Hearing

• If, before a Hearing, it becomes apparent to the Chair that the case will involve specialist evidence, or has elements which are unusual or complex, the Chair may, with or without a preliminary hearing, issue an order for directions setting out a timetable for the exchange of information and/or evidence, witness statements and/or skeleton arguments in order that the hearing of the case itself may be properly and fairly conducted. The Chair will determine if an interpreter or any other special measures are required. If appropriate a Chair may make such an order during a Hearing prior to granting an adjournment. 
  • Once a decision has been made that a Hearing should take place the Disciplinary (or Designated) Officer will complete and forward a Hearing Notification to the Individual Concerned. The Individual Concerned must be given at least 28 days’ notice of the Hearing. The notification must: 
    • State the specific Allegation(s)
    • Advise the Individual Concerned that it is their duty and responsibility to have available at the Hearing any evidence they wish to present and/or any witnesses they wish to call
    • Advise the Individual Concerned of the requirement that they provide a response within 14 days, and if they do not, this will not preclude a Disciplinary Hearing Panel hearing the case, and the Disciplinary Hearing Panel may draw an adverse inference from the failure to respond, and 
    • Advise the Individual Concerned that they are entitled to be accompanied at the Hearing
    • Advise the Individual Concerned that at least 7 days before the Hearing the Individual Concerned must provide details of any witnesses and/or evidence that they intend to rely on. Should the Individual Concerned fail to comply with this requirement without good reason, it will be for the Chair to decide whether such evidence will be permitted. 
  • Badminton England has a general right to suspend any Specified Person from any, or all, activities under the jurisdiction of Badminton England until the conclusion of any appropriate investigation and/or disciplinary proceedings.
  • The Club Disciplinary Committee has a general right to suspend any Specified Person from the Club until the conclusion of any appropriate investigation and/or disciplinary proceedings
  • An Interim Suspension is a neutral act and is not considered to be a sign of liability. 
  • When considering an Interim Suspension, it must only be used when it is both necessary and proportionate. In making this decision, the following factors should be considered: 
    • Whether there is a risk (or potential risk) of harm, or to the safety or welfare of any individual (including a Young Person);
    • The level of seriousness of the Allegation; 
    • Whether there is a risk of damage to the reputation of Badminton England, the Club and/or the sport of badminton; 
    • Whether there is a risk of damage to, or loss of, property; 
    • Whether a suspension is necessary to facilitate the conduct of any investigation or disciplinary proceedings by the Club, Badminton England or any other authority or body. 
    • The Disciplinary Officer (or Designated Officer for safeguarding cases) shall as soon as practicable notify the individual in writing of the Interim Suspension. 
    • Any concerned party (for instance, the Complainant or a witness) may be notified of the Interim Suspension. 
  • Once an Interim Suspension is ratified it shall be reviewed by the Disciplinary Committee or Case Management Group (for safeguarding matters) thereafter at regular intervals of not less than 8 weeks. Consideration will be given as to whether Interim Suspension remains necessary and proportionate. If this is no longer the case the Interim Suspension must be removed and (if relevant) any concerned party should be notified without delay, and in any case within two working days of the decision being made. 
  • Any breach of an Interim Suspension shall constitute grounds for further disciplinary action under these Regulations.

7.     Procedure during a Hearing

• A young person may not be required to attend a Hearing to give evidence in person; instead, the Young Person’s statement, or account may be read and will constitute their evidence.
  • If the Individual Concerned is not present, or represented, at a Hearing the Disciplinary Hearing Panel may proceed to hear the matter in their absence provided that:
    • The Panel is satisfied that a Hearing Notification has been served on the Individual Concerned within the appropriate timescale; and
    • Reasonable steps have been taken to ensure the Individual Concerned is aware of the Hearing.
  • The Chair will introduce proceedings and explain the procedure. The procedure to be followed is: 
  • The Individual Concerned shall be asked whether the Allegations subject to the Hearing are admitted
  • if the Allegations are not admitted the Disciplinary Hearing Panel will hear evidence in the following sequence: 
    • The Presenting Officer will be invited to present the case and call any witness or evidence relevant to prove the case; and 
    • The Individual Concerned (or their representative) will be entitled to give and call evidence in rebuttal
    • Witnesses should not be present whilst evidence is given, but may remain in the room when their own evidence is concluded. However, if the Individual Concerned or Complainant is under 18 years (or if any other witness is under 18 years), the witness will not be allowed to remain in the room;
    • Upon conclusion of their evidence, questions may be put to each witness, through the Chair, at the request of either party or by any member of the Disciplinary Hearing Panel;
    • Both the Presenting Officer and the Individual Concerned (or their representative) may sum up their case at the conclusion of all the evidence;
    • In all cases the person answering the Allegations shall have the right of the last word;
    • The Chair will then invite all persons other than members of the Disciplinary Hearing Panel to retire whilst the Panel considers its decision. Decisions are made by a majority of the Disciplinary Hearing Panel;
  • A Disciplinary Hearing Panel is not a court of law and as such the Panel may admit evidence as it sees fit and accord such weight to the evidence as it deems appropriate in the circumstances. However, the Panel must at all times observe the rules of natural justice and ensure proceedings are fair to all parties including the Individual Concerned, Complainant and Badminton England.

8.     Panel Decision

• The standard of proof is the Balance of Probabilities and not, as in a criminal court, beyond reasonable doubt. The Balance of Probabilities means that, having heard all the evidence and using their knowledge and experience, the Disciplinary Hearing Panel believes that it is more likely than not that the Allegations are proved (or not).
  • Where a Charge relates to a criminal conviction or caution, or a finding of guilt, or proven conduct, in any other judicial or quasi-judicial proceedings, including that of another sport’s national governing body or statutory agency proceedings, documentary evidence of the conviction/caution/finding of guilt is proof of the findings of the court/tribunal etc.
  • A Disciplinary Hearing Panel may on its own volition, or upon request from either party, adjourn the proceedings either during the Hearing, or to a rescheduled date
  • If the Allegations are denied and found not proved then the matter will be dismissed
  • If the Allegations are admitted or found proved the Disciplinary Hearing Panel will determine the appropriate sanction. Before determining sanctions, the Chair will invite the Presenting Officer to make representations regarding sanctions if they choose to do so. Such representations may include reference to the Individual Concerned’s previous disciplinary record if this is relevant

9.     Sanctions

• In considering sanctions the Disciplinary Hearing Panel should follow the Badminton England Disciplinary Sanctions Guidance.
  • The Individual Concerned (or their representative) may then call evidence as to character and address the Disciplinary Hearing Panel in mitigation of sanction
  • The Chair will again invite all persons other than members of the Disciplinary Hearing Panel to retire whilst the Panel considers the sanction to be imposed under the provisions of these Regulations.
  • The following sanctions are available for a Member Organisation Disciplinary Hearing Panel either singly or in combination:
    • A written warning;
    • An order to undertake specified training within a specific timescale
    • An order requiring an individual to be monitored or supervised in specific matters for a specific timescale
    • A temporary suspension from the Club for a specified period 
    • Termination of Club membership
  • The member must be informed of the outcome in writing within 14 days

10.  Appeals

1. The Individual Concerned may, within 14 days after receipt of the written reasons for the Disciplinary Hearing Panel’s decision, submit a notice against the decision (including a decision regarding sanction where the Allegation had been admitted) to Badminton England on the following grounds:
   1. The finding or sanction imposed was unreasonable; and/or
   1. There is evidence that could not reasonably have been considered at the Hearing which could have materially affected the finding or sanction

Introduction

All adults working with young people in badminton are asked to adhere to the best practice guidelines which form part of the UK BADMINTON England Safeguarding and Protecting Young people in Badminton Policy.

The Internet can be a valuable resource which members of Truro Badminton Club may wish to access.   Social media is a generic term used to describe a range of online applications that enable – and specifically encourage – interactive communication between users.   These include platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube, Digg, Flickr, blogs and personal websites.   Millions of people around the world use social media to ask questions, network, learn and share their interests.

This policy is designed to guide members in their use of social media platforms.   The Internet is a fast-moving technology and it is impossible to cover all circumstances.   However, the principles set out in this document should always be followed.   The intention of this policy is not to stop members from conducting legitimate activities on the internet, but serves to flag-up those areas in which conflicts may arise.

The Guidelines

• Any digital communication between Truro Badminton Club members or parents must be professional in tone and content.   
• All members of Truro Badminton Club will use of social media responsibly.   
• All Truro Badminton Club members are responsible for the management of their own online presence.
• Members should ensure that individuals should not be identifiable in social media posts without their permission.
• Members should not engage in online discussion on personal matters relating to other members.   
• Personal opinions on social media platforms should not be attributed to Truro Badminton Club.
• Mobile phones, tablets and other devices which allow internet access should not be used during any playing activity.

Truro Junior Badminton Club advocates the following:-

• Never write anything online when distressed or in response to something that has annoyed you – take time to think about your response and the most appropriate way to provide this.
• Do not be seduced by the informality of social media and the use of the word “friend‟ in this context.

• Be mindful that people online may not be who they appear to be – do you know the people you are linking up with? 
• Do not engage in activities which might be considered disrespectful, derogatory, abusive or socially inappropriate.
• Under no circumstance should offensive comments be made about Truro Badminton Club members or clients on the internet.   This may amount to cyber-bullying which is a disciplinary offence.   Negative comments may contravene the BE Codes of Conduct and therefore may be subject to disciplinary action.
• Always respect the privacy and the feelings of others.
• Always consider the open nature of social media.   All members should be mindful of the information they disclose on social networking sites.
• Be aware of your security settings – third parties may be able to view or share your posts without your knowledge.   By posting identifiable data about yourself online may lead to you becoming a victim of identity theft – think about your personal protection.
• Never disclose confidential information or voice perceived dissatisfaction with Truro Badminton Club or its policies.   These must be raised through formal routes e.g.   to a committee member.   Breaches in confidentiality could result in disciplinary action being taken.   
• Regularly review the content of your social media presence and consider historical posts – how could these be viewed by others or if seen out of context? 
• All professionally qualified staff should also familiarise themselves with the social media / use of the internet guidance issued by BE.   Breaches of professional codes of conduct will result in a review of practice and may lead to disciplinary action.   
• Truro Badminton Club members who have or want to create an online presence (personal or professional) which indicates in any way that they are members of Truro Badminton Club should discuss any potential conflicts of interest with their team manager.
• If an online site makes it clear the author is a member of Truro Badminton Club, it should include a simple and visible disclaimer such as “These are my personal views and not those of Truro Badminton Club”.  
• Social networking sites allow photographs, videos and comments to be shared with thousands of other users.   However, it may not be appropriate to share Truro Badminton Club -related information or social events with colleagues in this way.   For example, there may be an expectation, by Truro Badminton Club members present at a social event, that photographs taken at a private event will not appear publicly.   The perceptions of others not at the event who may see the images out of context should also be considered.
• Many parents and carers have only a limited understanding of e-safety risks and issues, yet they play an essential role in the education of their children and in the monitoring / regulation of the children’s on-line behaviours.   Parents may underestimate how often children and young people come across potentially harmful and inappropriate material on the internet and may be unsure about how to respond.
• Truro Badminton Club Coaches should NOT have players under the age of 18 as their ‘friends’ on personal social networking sites when the primary reason for the relationship is badminton and they have a position of trust in relation to that young person.
• In the event of a player showing a Truro Badminton Club staff member a text or instant message, image or email that is considered to be inappropriate you must inform the Safeguarding Officer, either at the club or BE County or National level.   If a young person is concerned with anything they have seen on the internet they are advised to speak to Safeguarding Officer.

*           *           *           *           *           *           *           *           *           *           *           *           *

Some key points to remember

Don’t:-           Share confidential information online

                        Post inappropriate comments about members or staff

                        Use social networking sites to bully or intimidate members

                        Pursue personal relationships with members

                        Distribute sexually explicit material

                        Use social networking sites in any way which is unlawful

1.1    Introduction

Everyone who participates in badminton is entitled to do so in an enjoyable and safe environment. The Club has a moral and legal obligation to ensure that, when given responsibility for young people, coaches and volunteers provide them with a safe and positive experience.

Truro Badminton Club is committed to ensuring that everyone accepts their responsibilities to safeguard children from harm and abuse.  This means all members will follow procedures to protect children and report any concerns about their welfare to appropriate authorities.

The aim of the policy is to promote good practice, providing children, young people and vulnerable adults with appropriate safety/protection whilst in the care of Truro badminton club and to allow members and volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues.

A child/young person is defined as a person under the age of 18 (Children’s Act 1989)

1. Policy Statement

Truro badminton club is committed to the following:

• the welfare of the child and vulnerable adult is paramount

• all children, whatever their age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief and/or sexual identity should be able to participate in badminton in a fun and safe environment

• taking all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination and degrading treatment and to respect their rights, wishes and feelings

• all suspicions and allegations of poor practice or abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately

• all club members who work with children will be recruited with regard to their suitability for that responsibility, and will be provided with guidance and/or training in good practice and child protection procedures

• working in partnership with parents and children is essential for the protection of children

1. Monitor and review the policy and procedures

The Club Welfare Officer will ensure they attend all necessary training modules, so they have the necessary skills to undertake their role effectively.

The implementation of procedures will be regularly monitored and reviewed by the Club Welfare Officer. 

The welfare officer should report progress, challenges, difficulties, achievements gaps and areas where changes are required to the management committee.

The policy should be reviewed every 3 years or whenever there is a major change in the organisation or in relevant legislation.

2             Promoting Good Practice

• Introduction

To provide children with the best possible experience and opportunities in badminton everyone must operate within an accepted ethical framework.

It is not always easy to distinguish poor practice from abuse.  It is therefore NOT the responsibility of members or participants in badminton to make judgements about whether or not abuse is taking place.  It is however their responsibility to identify poor practice and possible abuse and act if they have concerns about the welfare of the child, as explained in section 4.  

This section will help you identify what is meant by good practice and poor practice.

• Good Practice

All personnel should adhere to the following principles and action:

• always work in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging open communication with no secrets)

• make the experience of badminton fun and enjoyable: promote fairness, confront and deal with bullying

• treat all young people equally and with respect and dignity

• always put the welfare of the young person first, before winning

• maintain a safe and appropriate distance with players (e.g. it is not appropriate for members or volunteers to have an intimate relationship with a child or to share a room with them)

• avoid unnecessary physical contact with young people.  Where any form of manual/physical support is required it should be provided openly and with the consent of the young person.  Physical contact can be appropriate so long as it is neither intrusive nor disturbing and the young person’s consent has been given

• Involve parents/cares wherever possible, e.g. where young people need to be supervised in changing rooms, encourage parents to take responsibility for their own child.  If groups have to be supervised in changing rooms always ensure parents, coaches etc work in pairs

• request written parental consent if club officials are required to transport young people in their cars

• gain written parental consent for any significant travel arrangements e.g. overnight stays

• ensure that if mixed teams are taken away, they should always be accompanied by a male and female member of the club

• ensure that at away events adults should not enter a young person’s room or invite young people to their rooms

• be an excellent role model, this includes not smoking or drinking alcohol in the company of young people

• always give enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism

• recognising the developmental needs and capacity of the young person and do not risk sacrificing welfare in a desire for club or personal achievements.  This means avoiding excessive training or competition and not pushing them against their will

• secure written parental consent for the club to act in loco parentis, to give permission for the administration of emergency first aid or other medical treatment if the need arises

• keep a written record of any injury that occurs, along with details of any treatment given

• Poor Practice

The following are regarded as poor practice and should be avoided by all members:

• unnecessarily spending excessive amounts of time alone with young people away from others

• taking young people alone in a car on journeys, however short

• taking young people to your home where they will be alone with you

• sharing a room with a young person

• engaging in rough, physical or sexually provocative games, including horseplay

• allow or engage in inappropriate touching of any form

• allowing young people to use inappropriate language unchallenged

• making sexually suggestive comments to a young person, even in fun

• reducing a young person to tears as a form of control

• allow allegations made by a young person to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon

• do things of a personal nature that the young person can do for themselves

Use of Changing Rooms, Toilets and Showering facilities.

• Adults must not change, or shower, at the same time using the same facility as children.
• Adults should try to change at separate times to children during matches, for example when children are padding up.
• Adults will not use mobile devices when children are present in changing rooms.
• Mixed gender teams must have access to separate male and female changing rooms.

The club will seek consent from parents that their child(ren) can share a changing room with adults in the club.

If children are uncomfortable changing or showering at the club, no pressure will be placed on them to do so.

When a case arises where it is impractical/impossible to avoid certain situation e.g. transporting a young person on you car, the tasks should only be carried out with the full understanding and consent of the parent/care and the young person involved.

If during your care you accidentally hurt a young person, the young person seems distressed in any manner, appears to be sexually aroused by your actions and/or if the young person misunderstands or misinterprets something you have done, report any such incidents as soon as possible to another colleague and make a written note of it.  Parents should also be informed of the incident.

2.4    Defining Child Abuse

• Introduction

Child abuse is any form of physical, emotional or sexual mistreatment or lack of care that leads to injury or harm, it commonly occurs within a relationship of trust or responsibility and is an abuse of power or a breach of trust.  Abuse can happen to a young person regardless of their age, gender, race or ability.

There are four main types of abuse: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect.  The abuser may be a family member, someone the young person encounters in residential care or in the community, including sports and leisure activities.  Any individual may abuse or neglect a young person directly, or may be responsible for abuse because they fail to prevent another person harming the young person.

Abuse in all of its forms can affect a young person at any age.  The effects can be so damaging that if not treated may follow the individual into adulthood

Young people with disabilities may be at increased risk of abuse through various factors such as stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, isolation and a powerlessness to protect themselves or adequately communicate that abuse had occurred.

• Types of Abuse

• Physical Abuse: where adults physically hurt or injure a young person e.g. hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, biting, scalding, suffocating, drowning.  Giving young people alcohol or inappropriate drugs would also constitute child abuse.

This category of abuse can also include when a parent/carer reports non-existent symptoms or illness deliberately causes ill health in a young person they are looking after.  This is called Munchausens syndrome by proxy.

In a sports situation, physical abuse may occur when the nature and intensity of training disregard the capacity of the child’s immature and growing body

• Emotional Abuse: the persistent emotional ill treatment of a young person, likely to cause severe and lasting adverse effects on the child’s emotional development.  It may involve telling a young person they are useless, worthless, unloved, inadequate or valued in terms of only meeting the needs of another person.  It may feature expectations of young people that are not appropriate to their age or development.  It may cause a young person to be frightened or in danger by being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted which may make the young person frightened or withdrawn.

Ill treatment of children, whatever form it takes, will always feature a degree of emotional abuse.

Emotional abuse in sport may occur when the young person is constant criticised, given negative feedback, expected to perform at levels that are above their capability.  Other forms of emotional abuse could take the form of name calling and bullying.

• Bullying may come from another young person or an adult.  Bullying is defined as deliberate hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those bullied to defend themselves.  There are three main types of bullying.

It may be physical (e.g. hitting, kicking, slapping), verbal (e.g. racist or homophobic remarks, name calling, graffiti, threats, abusive text messages), emotional (e.g. tormenting, ridiculing, humiliating, ignoring, isolating form the group), or sexual (e.g. unwanted physical contact or abusive comments).

In sport bullying may arise when a parent or coach pushes the young person too hard to succeed, or a rival athlete or official uses bullying behaviour.

• Neglect occurs when an adult fails to meet the young person’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, to an extent that is likely to result in serious impairment of the child’s health or development.  For example, failing to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, failing to protect from physical harm or danger, or failing to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.

Refusal to give love, affection and attention can also be a form of neglect.

Neglect in sport could occur when a coach does not keep the young person safe, or exposing them to undue cold/heat or unnecessary risk of injury.

• Sexual Abuse occurs when adults (male and female) use children to meet their own sexual needs.  This could include full sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, anal intercourse and fondling.  Showing young people pornography or talking to them in a sexually explicit manner are also forms of sexual abuse.

In sport, activities which might involve physical contact with young people could potentially create situations where sexual abuse may go unnoticed.  Also the power of the coach over young athletes, if misused, may lead to abusive situations developing.

• Indicators of Abuse

Even for those experienced in working with child abuse, it is not always easy to recognise a situation where abuse may occur or has already taken place.  Most people are not experts in such recognition, but indications that a child is being abused may include one or more of the following:

• unexplained or suspicious injuries such as bruising, cuts or burns, particularly if situated on a part of the body not normally prone to such injuries

• an injury for which an explanation seems inconsistent

• the young person describes what appears to be an abusive act involving them

• another young person or adult expresses concern about the welfare of a young person

• unexplained changes in a young person’s behaviour e.g. becoming very upset, quiet, withdrawn or displaying sudden outbursts of temper

• inappropriate sexual awareness

• engaging in sexually explicit behaviour

• distrust of adult’s, particularly those whom a close relationship would normally be expected

• difficulty in making friends

• being prevented from socialising with others

• displaying variations in eating patterns including over eating or loss of appetite

• losing weight for no apparent reason

• becoming increasingly dirty or unkempt

Signs of bullying include:

• behavioural changes such as reduced concentration and/or becoming withdrawn, clingy, depressed, tearful, emotionally up and down, reluctance to go training or competitions

• an unexplained drop off in performance

• physical signs such as stomach aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, bed wetting, scratching and bruising, damaged clothes, bingeing e.g. on food, alcohol or cigarettes

• a shortage of money or frequents loss of possessions

It must be recognised that the above list is not exhaustive, but also that the presence of one or more of the indications is not proof that abuse is taking place.  It is NOT the responsibility of those working in the club to decide that child abuse is occurring. It IS their responsibility to act on any concerns.

• Use of Photographic/Filming Equipment at Sporting Events

There is evidence that some people have used sporting events as an opportunity to take inappropriate photographs or film footage of young people.  All clubs should be vigilant and any concerns should be reported to the Club welfare officer. Truro Badminton club adopts the following principles in relation to photography: 

• Photographs/images are not to be taken at matches or training without the prior permission of the parents/carers of the child. This permission can be given by proxy, by the coach of each team, only after parental consent for this has been granted. 
• If no consent has been given for a child on the player profile form, then it is to be made known to the relevant person of the other team (e.g. coach/team manager) so the appropriate person/s taking photographs for the other team is/are aware and can avoid taking photographs of that particular child 
• The children should be informed a person will be taking photographs 
• The children should be informed that if they have concerns they can report these to the coach or captain 
• Concerns regarding inappropriate, or intrusive, photography should be reported to the Club Welfare Officer and recorded in the same manner as any other child protection or safeguarding concern 

Truro Badminton club will adhere to the following principles with regards to the publishing of photographs of children:

• Ask for parental permission to use the child’s image and, wherever possible, show the image to the parents and child in advance. This ensures that they are aware of the way the image will be used to represent badminton and the club 
• Ask for the child’s permission to use their image. This ensures they are aware of the way the image is to be used to represent badminton and the club 
• If the player is named, avoid using their photograph, and if a photograph is used, avoid naming the child 
• Only use images of children in appropriate kit (training or competition), to reduce the risk of inappropriate use, and to provide positive images of the children 
• Encourage the reporting of inappropriate use of images of children. If you are concerned, report your concerns to the County or Club Welfare Officer 

Using video as a coaching aid: 

There is no intention on the part of the ECB to prevent club coaches using video equipment as a legitimate coaching aid. However, players and parents/carers should be aware that this is part of the coaching programme, and material taken in connection with coaching, must be stored securely and deleted or destroyed when a parent requests this, or when the material is no longer needed. 

The parents/carers and children must provide written consent for the use of photography and video analysis.

3             Responding to Suspicions and Allegations

• Introduction

It is not the responsibility of anyone working in Club in a paid or unpaid capacity to decide whether or not child abuse has taken place.  However there is a responsibility to act on any concerns through contact with the appropriate authorities so that they can then make inquiries and take necessary action to protect the young person.  This applies BOTH to allegations/suspicions of abuse occurring within Club and to allegations/suspicions that abuse is taking place elsewhere.

This section explains how to respond to allegations/suspicions.

• Receiving Evidence of Possible Abuse

We may become aware of possible abuse in various ways.  We may see it happening, we may suspect it happening because of signs such as those listed in section 3 of this document, it may be reported to us by someone else or directly by the young person affected.

In the last of these cases, it is particularly important to respond appropriately.  If a young person says or indicates that they are being abused, you should:

• stay calm so as not to frighten the young person
• reassure the child that they are not to blame and that it was right to tell
• listen to the child, showing that you are taking them seriously
• keep questions to a minimum so that there is a clear and accurate understanding of what has been said.  The law is very strict and child abuse cases have been dismissed where it is felt that the child has been led or words and ideas have been suggested during questioning.  Only ask questions to clarify
• inform the child that you have to inform other people about what they have told you.  Tell the child this is to help stop the abuse continuing.
• safety of the child is paramount.  If the child needs urgent medical attention call an ambulance, inform the doctors of the concern and ensure they are made aware that this is a child protection issue
• record all information
• report the incident to the club welfare officer or the Local Authority Designated Officer.

In all cases if you are not sure what to do you can get help from the NSPCC 24 hour help line Tel No: 0800800500

• Recording Information

To ensure that information is as helpful as possible, a detailed record should always be made at the time of the disclosure/concern.  In recording you should confine yourself to the facts and distinguish what is your personal knowledge and what others have told you.  Do not include your own opinions.

Information should include the following:

• the child’s name, age and date of birth
• the child’s home address and telephone number
• whether or not the person making the report is expressing their concern or someone else’s
• the nature of the allegation, including dates, times and any other relevant information
• a description of any visible bruising or injury, location, size etc.  Also any indirect signs, such as behavioural changes
• details of witnesses to the incidents
• the child’s account, if it can be given, of what has happened and how any bruising/injuries occurred
• have the parents been contacted?  If so what has been said?
• has anyone else been consulted?  If so record details
• has anyone been alleged to be the abuser?  Record detail

• Reporting the Concern

All suspicions and allegations MUST be reported appropriately.  It is recognised that strong emotions can be aroused particularly in cases where sexual abuse is suspected or where there is misplaced loyalty to a colleague.  It is important to understand these feelings but not allow them to interfere with your judgement about any action to take.

The club expects it’s members and members to discuss any concerns they may have about the welfare of a childimmediately with the person in charge and subsequently to check that appropriate action has been taken.

If the nominated club welfare officer is not available you should take responsibility and seek advice from the NSPCC helpline, the duty officer at your local social services department or the police.  Telephone numbers can be found in your local directory.

Where there is a complaint against an employee or volunteer, there may be three types of investigation.

• Criminal in which case the police are immediately involved
• Child protection  in which case the social services (and possibly) the police will be involved
• Disciplinary or misconduct in which case the Club will be involved

As mentioned previously in this document members of the Club are not child protection experts and it is not their responsibility to determine whether or not abuse has taken place.  All suspicions and allegations must be shared with professional agencies that are responsible for child protection. 

In all cases if you are not sure what to do you can gain help from the NSPCC 24 hour help line Tel No: 0800800500

Social services have a legal responsibility under The Children Act 1989 to investigate all child protection referrals by talking to the child and family (where appropriate), gathering information from other people who know the child and making inquiries jointly with the police.

NB:     If there is any doubt, you must report the incident: it may be just one of a series of other incidences which together cause concern

Any suspicion that a child has been abused by an employee or a volunteer should be reported to the Club who will take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of the child in question and any other child who may be at risk.  This will include the following:

• The club will refer the matter to social services department
• the parent/carer of the child will be contacted as soon as possible following advice from the social services department
• the chair person of Truro badminton club should be notified to decide who will deal with any media inquiries and implement any immediate disciplinary proceedings
• the club welfare officer should also notify the Badminton Association of England governing body
• if the Club welfare officer is the subject of the suspicion/allegation the report must be made to the Chair person who will refer the matter to social services

Allegations of abuse are sometimes made sometime after the event.  Where such allegation is made, you should follow the same procedures and have the matter reported to social services.  This is because other children in the sport or outside it may be at risk from the alleged abuser.  Anyone who has a previous conviction for offences related to abuse against children is automatically excluded from working with children.

Safeguarding Contacts
Local Contacts for Safeguarding
Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO)	County Hall, Truro, TR1 3HY	01872 326 53601872 327 225
Local Children’s Social Care (inc out of office hours contact) Please note: In an emergency, the Samaritans will hold the Social Care Duty Officer’s contact number.		0300 1234 101O.O.H 01208 251300
The Samaritans		08457 909 090
Local Police Child Protection Teams (Multi Agency Referral Unit) In an emergency contact via 999.	County Hall, Truro, TR1 3HY	0300 1231 116

National Contacts for Safeguarding
NSPCC Freephone 24 hour Helpline	National Centre Weston House, 42 Curtain Road London, EC2A 3NH www.nsTruro Badminton Club.org.uk	0808 800 5000 Txt 0800 056 0566
NSPCC Asian Child Protection Helpline		0800 096 7719
Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU)	3 Gilmour Close, Beaumont Leys, Leicester, L4 1EZwww.thecpsu.org.uk	0116 2347278
Childline UK	Freepost 1111 London N1 OBRwww.childline.org.uk	0800 1111
Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP)	33 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London, SW1V 2WG www.ceop.gov.uk	0870 000 3344

• Concerns outside the immediate Sporting Environment (e.g. a parent or carer)
• Report your concerns to the Club safeguarding officer
• If the Club safeguarding officer is not available, the person being told or discovering the abuse should contact their local social services department or the police immediately
• Social Services and the Club safeguarding officer will decide how to inform the parents/carers
• The Club safeguarding officer should also report the incident to the Club Chair person or Secretary.  They should ascertain whether or not the person/s involved in the incident play a role in the organisation and act accordingly
• Maintain confidentiality on a need to know basis

• Managing children on trips

The Club will appoint Team Manager(s) with clear roles and responsibilities including: 

• Communicating the following information to parent(s): 

– Why the trip is planned and what is its reason or purpose

– When the trip will take place: date, time of departure and estimated time of return

– Where the trip is to, including the destination and venue

– Where the meeting points will be, at home and at the away venue

– Staffing arrangements, including the name and contact details of the Team Manager responsible for the trip

– Kit and equipment requirements

– Details of cost implications, including the competition fee, any spending or pocket money needed and the transport costs

– Name and contact number of the person acting as the ‘Club Home Contact’

– Arrangements for food and drink

• Being in possession of a written copy of relevant emergency contact details and procedures, and medical information for all children participating.
• Determining appropriate staffing and staff training and overseeing appropriate arrangements.
• Ensuring there is a ‘Club Home Contact’ – a member of the club who is not travelling away, who will act as a contact point in an emergency and who is provided with the relevant information.
• Ensuring the players are prepared for touring.

• Missing child guidelines

If a child goes missing from an organised session with Truro Badminton Club, the actions should be taken: 

• Ensure other children are looked after appropriately while you organise a search for the child concerned 
• Inform the child’s parents, if they are present at the event, or nominate an appropriate person to telephone them and advise of the concern. Reassure them you are doing all you can to locate their child. Remember the child may contact the parents directly so this action is very important 
• Organise all available responsible adults by areas to be searched. It is best to take a short time to organise the search properly so that all places are searched fully 
• Send searchers immediately to any exits to the venue to ensure the child has not left, and to any obvious potential danger spots such as nearby lakes or rivers. 
• Search the area in which the child has gone missing including changing rooms, toilets, public and private areas and the club’s grounds 
• Request all those searching to report back to a nominated adult at a specific point 
• This nominated person should remain at this reference point and make a note of events, including a detailed physical description of the child. This should include approximate height, build, hair and eye colour as well as the clothing the child was wearing and where and when they were last seen. All this will be required by the police. If the search is unsuccessful you should then contact the police 
• A report should go to the police no later than 20 minutes after the child’s disappearance is noted, even if the search is not complete 
• If the police recommend further action before they get involved, follow their guidance 
• If the police act upon the concern, always be guided by them in any further actions to take. 
• At any stage when the child is located, ensure you inform all adults involved including the parents, searchers and the police if, by then, they are involved 

All missing child incidents MUST BE notified at the very earliest opportunity to the Club Welfare Officer, who must immediately notify the County Welfare Officer, and they must then notify the ECB Safeguarding Team 

• Confidentiality

Every effort should be made to ensure that confidentiality is maintained for all concerned.  Information should be handled and disseminated on a need to know basis only.  This includes the following people:

• The Club Welfare Officer
• The parents of the child
• The person making the allegation
• Social Services/police
• The Regional Development Officer for Badminton England
• The Chair person or secretary of the club
• The alleged abuser (and parents if the alleged abuser is a child)

Seek social services advice on who should approach the alleged abuser.

All information should be stored in a secure place with limited access to designated people, in line with data protection laws.

• Internal Inquiries and Suspension

• The welfare officer will make an immediate decision about whether any individual accused of abuse should be temporarily suspended pending further police and social services inquiries

• Irrespective of the findings of the social services or police inquiries the Club Committee will assess all individual cases to decide whether a member of members or volunteer can be reinstated and how this can be sensitively handled.  This may be a difficult decision; especially where there is insufficient evidence to uphold any action by the police.  In such cases the Club Committee must reach a decision based upon the available information which could suggest that on the balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true.  The welfare of the child should remain of paramount importance throughout.

• Recruiting and Selecting Personnel with Children

• Introduction

It is important that all reasonable steps are taken to prevent unsuitable people from working with children.  This applies equally to paid members and volunteers, both full and part time.  To ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with children the following steps should be taken when recruiting.

• Controlling Access to Children

• All volunteers should complete an application form.  The application form will elicit information about the applicants past and a self disclosure about any criminal record. 
• Consent should be obtained from the applicant to seek information from the Criminal Records Bureau.  
• Two confidential references, including one regarding previous work with children should be obtained.  These references MUST be taken up and confirmed through telephone contact.
• Evidence of identity (passport or driving licence with photo)

• Interview and Induction

All volunteers will be required to read the Safeguarding children and Child protection policy.  All volunteers should receive formal or informal induction during which:

• A check should be made that the application form has been completed in full, including sections on criminal records and self disclosures
• The job requirements and responsibilities should be clarified
• They should sign to confirm they have read the Safeguarding children and Child protection policy
• They should sign up to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Conduct
• Child Protection Procedures as outlined in the policy are explained and additional training needs identified e.g. basic child protection awareness

• Training and recruitment

In addition to pre-selection checks, the safeguarding process includes training after recruitment to help volunteers to:

• Analyse their own practice against what is deemed good practice, and to ensure their practice is likely to protect them from false allegations
• Recognise their responsibilities and report any concerns about suspected poor practice and/or abuse
• Respond to concerns expressed by a child
• Work safely and effectively with children

Truro badminton club requires:

• All volunteers who have access to children to undergo a DBS check
• All employees, volunteers, coaches, welfare officers and team managers to undertake relevant child protection training or undertake a form of home study, to ensure their practice is exemplary and to facilitate the development of positive culture towards good practice and child protection
• All members and volunteers to receive advisory information outlining good/bad practice and informing them what to do if they have concerns about the behaviour of an adult towards a young person
• All coaches, trainee coaches and leaders should have an up to date first aid qualification

Declaration

On behalf of TRURO BADMINTON CLUB we, the undersigned, will oversee the implementation of the Child Protection Policy and take all necessary steps to ensure it is adhered to.

Signed:

(n.b. One of the signatories should be the Welfare Officer)

Name:		Name:
TRURO BADMINTON CLUB Chair person		TRURO BADMINTON CLUB Safeguarding Officer
Date:		Date:

Renewal date April 2021

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES GUIDELINES

If an incident or accident occurs during Club activities:-

Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation.  Is there 

danger of further injuries?

Listen to what the injured person is saying.

Alert the First Aider who should take appropriate action for minor injuries.

In the event of an injury requiring specialist treatment, call the emergency services.

Deal with the rest of the group and ensure that they are 

adequately supervised.

Do not move someone with major injuries.  Wait for the 

emergency services.

Contact the injured person’s parent, guardian or carer.

Complete an incident/accident report form/book.  The form should be completed by the main person who dealt with the incident.

If appropriate, collect and collate statements from witnesses.

Completed forms should be kept safely by the club organiser or an identified club member.

Ensure that the club secretary is made aware of the 

incident.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENT

This child protection policy demonstrates the importance that this Club places on the protection of children who participate in the Club programme.  This Club is committed to ensuring that their young members are able to enjoy a wide range of activities in a safe environment.

The Club will:-

Implement procedures to provide a duty of care for young people to safeguard their well-being and protect them from abuse.

Respect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of young people.

Ensure that advice, guidance and training is available for all volunteers involved with the management of the Club.

Adopt best practice to safeguard and protect young people from abuse and volunteers from false allegations.

Require all members and visitors to abide by the Club’s codes of conduct and equity policy.

Respond to all incidents of suspicious poor practice and allegations seriously, swiftly and appropriately.

Report allegations or incidence of suspicious poor practice to the Club Child Welfare Officer, or to the Safeguarding Officer at Badminton England.

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS

This Club is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its young players.   The Club believes that it is important that members, coaches, administrators and parents associated with the club should, at all times, show respect and be encouraged to be open in sharing any concerns or complaints they may have about any aspect of the Club with the Club Safeguarding Officer.  As a player you are expected to abide by the following code of conduct:

• All players must play within the laws of the game and respect all officials and their decisions.
• All players must show respect for other players in the club and opponents.
• All players should keep to agreed times for Club sessions and competitions.
• If having been selected for a competition or match, a player is required to withdraw, they must inform the appropriate person immediately.
• All players must wear appropriate badminton sports clothing for club sessions and competitions.
• All players must pay any fees for training and events promptly or by the due date.

Players are not permitted to chew gum, smoke, consume alcohol or drugs of any kind on the club premises or whilst representing the club.  (Players who have medical problems likely to affect badminton must discuss this with the Club Safeguarding Officer).

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COACHES AND HELPERS

All Club Coaches and Helpers must:-

• Consider the well-being and safety of participants before the development of performance.
• Develop an appropriate working relationship with performers, based on mutual trust and respect.
• Make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking part. 
•  Promote the positive aspects of the sport, for example, Fair Play.
•  Display consistently high standards of behaviour and appearance.
•  Follow all guidelines laid down by Badminton England and the Club.
•  Hold appropriate, valid qualifications and insurance cover.
•  Never exert undue influence over performers to obtainpersonal benefit or reward.
•  Never condone rule violations, rough play or the use of prohibited substances.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION POLICY

Sports equity is about fairness in sport, equality of access, 

recognising inequalities and taking steps to address them.  It is about changing the culture and structure of sport to ensure it becomes equally accessible to everyone in society.

This Club is committed to ensuring that equity is incorporated across all aspects of its development.  In doing so, it 

acknowledges and adopts the following Sport England definition of sports equity.

The Club respects the rights, dignity and worth of every 

person and will treat everyone equally within the context of their sport, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religious belief, sexuality or social/economic status.

The Club is committed to everyone having the right to enjoy their sport in an environment free from threat of intimidation, harassment or abuse.

All Club members have a responsibility to respond and report 

discriminatory behaviour and promote equality of opportunity.

The Club will deal with any incidence of discriminatory 

behaviour seriously, according to Club disciplinary 

procedures.

Code of Ethics and Conduct

This Code of Ethics and Conduct applies to all those involved in the sport of badminton under the jurisdiction of the Badminton Association of England. Members and guests include all members and officers of Truro Badminton Club and all players and guests of those members and officers, as well as all individuals who watch/attend/participate/officiate in matches hosted by the club in whatever capacity. Truro Badminton Club is committed to maintaining the highest possible standards of behaviour and conduct at badminton games and club nights.

Everyone has a responsibility to act according to the highest standards of integrity, and to ensure that the reputation of badminton is beyond reproach.

Everyone involved in badminton, both adults and young people have a responsibility to treat everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity and fairness. In particular, be aware of the special needs of young people and vulnerable adults, and recognise that some face additional barriers. Every young person or vulnerable adult involved in the game of badminton should be able to participate in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from abuse. Allegations of a child protection nature relating to the breaking of this Code of Ethics and Conduct must follow the reporting procedures as contained in the Safeguarding children and Child Protection Policy.

The Management Committee is responsible for ensuring the overall implementation, monitoring and revision of this policy.

All Members are responsible for familiarising themselves with and achieving the standards of conduct expected of them.

The following principles must be adhered to at all times so that badminton can be enjoyed by all.

Members, visitors and guests

All those involved in badminton must treat everyone equally and sensitively regardless of age, disability, gender, race, ethnic origin, cultural or social background, sexual orientation, religious belief, political affiliation or any other personal characteristic/feature. Truro badminton club is opposed to any form of violent, offensive or discriminatory behaviour and will act as necessary to remove individuals from the Club who do not abide by this Code of Ethics and Conduct. All members, visitors and guests will,

• Display high standards of behaviour
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person within the context of badminton
• Treat everyone equally and sensitively regardless of age, disability, gender, race, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or political affiliation
• Treat your team-mates and opponents, coaches, club officials and umpires with respect and consideration at all times – treat them as you would like to be treated
• Not use foul, sexist, racist language or offensive gestures at any time
• Know and abide by the rules and spirit of the game
• Encourage all participants to learn the Laws and rules and play within them, always respecting the decisions of match officials
• Promote the positive aspects of badminton, for example fair play and actively discourage unfair play, rule violations and arguing with match officials
• Place the well-being and safety of children above the development of performance
• Ensure activities are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and ability of the individual
• Respect children’s opinions when making decisions about their participation in badminton
• Do not smoke, or drink while working with children in the club
• Not provide children with alcohol when they are under the care of the club
• Never use banned substances
• Follow Ba of E guidelines set out in the “Policy for Safeguarding Children” and any other relevant guidelines issued
• Report any concerns in relation to a child, following reporting procedures laid down by the Ba of E
• Avoid violence and rough play and help injured opponents
• Accept the decisions of the umpires without question or complaint (let your captain or coach ask the necessary questions) and avoid words or actions which may mislead an umpire
• Abide by the instructions of the coach and club officials, provided they do not contradict the spirit of this Code of Ethics and Conduct or the rules of badminton
• Do not condone, or allow to go unchallenged, any form of discrimination if witnessed
• Give maximum effort and strive for the best possible performance through the whole game, even if it is considered already over;
• Accept victory and defeat with humility and dignity and without excessive emotional displays
• Work equally hard for yourself and your team – your team’s performance will benefit and so will your own
• Be a good sport, applaud all good performance, whether by your team or by the opponent
• At the end of play applaud and thank your opponents

Club officers and appointed volunteers

Truro badminton club officers and appointed volunteers are responsible for maintaining a high standard of conduct and implementing the Ba of E and Truro badminton club Code of Ethics and Conduct. They will,

• Treat everyone equally and sensitively regardless of age, disability, gender, race, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religious belief or political affiliation;
• Not use foul, sexist or racist language;
• Take action against any club member or spectator who harasses, abuses or uses foul, sexist or racist language;
• Accept the responsibilities of their role and set a good example of behaviour and conduct at all times and promote ethical principles;
• Ensure all members follow best practice guidelines to safeguard young people and vulnerable adults;
• Ensure that proper supervision is provided by suitably qualified coaches and officials who are capable of promoting good sporting behaviour and good technical skills;
• Ensure all equipment and facilities meet safety standards;
• Resist all illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and techniques;
• Encourage all players and coaches to abide by the rules and spirit of the game and do not manipulate the rules in order to benefit yourself personally or your club;
• Show respect to match officials, coaches, players and others involved in the game;
• Do not endeavour to influence the result of a game by any actions that are not strictly within the rules;
• Remember sport is enjoyed for its own sake – play down the importance of awards;
• Always have regard to the best interests of badminton, including where publicly expressing an opinion of the game, others involved and any particular aspect of it;
• Avoid words or actions, which may mislead a Match Official and accept their decisions.
• Attend appropriate training to keep up to date with their role, especially with respect to the safeguarding of children
• Hold relevant qualifications and be covered by appropriate insurance
• Have been appropriately vetted eg DBS checks if required
• Always work in an open environment (i.e. avoid private, or unobserved, situations and encourage an open environment)
• Inform players and parents of the requirements of badminton
• Know and understand the Ba of E’s “Policy for Safeguarding Children”
• Develop an appropriate working relationship with young players, based on mutual trust and respect
• Ensure physical contact is appropriate and necessary and is carried out within recommended guidelines with the young player’s full consent and approval
• Not engage in any form of sexually related contact with a young player. This is strictly forbidden, as is sexual innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms. The Ba of E adopts the Home Office guidelines. These recommend “people in positions of trust and authority do not have sexual relationships with 16-17 year olds or younger children in their care”

Coaches

This Code of Ethics and Conduct is an integral part of the Ba of E Education Programme within which all coaches must work. It should be used in conjunction with all other Ba of E and Truro badminton club policies, procedures or recognised standards. Through this Code of Ethics and Conduct, coaches who are affiliated to Ba of E must accept their responsibility to the participants, their parents and families, to coaching and to Ba of E affiliated associations. All affiliated coaches agree to:

• Consider the safety and wellbeing of all individuals in their charge;
• Ensure their behaviour is not misconstrued or open to allegations of favouritism, misconduct or impropriety;
• Follow guidance on good practice when working with young people/vulnerable adults and report any concerns for their wellbeing to the relevant authority or body;
• Uphold the appropriate boundaries in the working relationship between coach and player – especially when one person is aged under 18 years of age or a vulnerable adult. While the coach-player relationship Exists, the coach should not only refrain from initiating a relationship, but should also discourage any attempt by a player to initiate an intimate relationship, explaining the ethical basis of the refusal;
• Ensure that all training and playing demands are not detrimental to the wellbeing of the players and are reasonable dependent upon the age, maturity, experience and ability of the players;
• Ensure their competence and ability is sufficient so that the safety of players is not compromised:
• Encourage players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance:
• Be appropriately qualified as per the requirements of the Ba of E Coach Education Programme and regularly seek opportunities for continued professional development;
• Respect the rights of players to choose to decline to participate within coaching or playing situations;
• Declare any affiliation, sponsorship or accreditation in a truthful and accurate manner;
• Be receptive to employing systems of evaluation that include self-evaluation and also external evaluation in an effort to assess the effectiveness of your work;
• Abide by all rules and policies of Ba of E;
• Hold a clear Enhanced DBS check when in a position of regulated activity;
• Comply with all safeguarding and first aid policies and procedures including submitting Self-Declaration forms;
• Promote prevention and education regarding the misuse of performance enhancing drugs and illegal substances;
• Declare any history or instances where you were disciplined, dismissed, cautioned, warned or convicted of any offence relating to children/young people/vulnerable adults on a Self Declaration form submitted to the EB Compliance Officer;
• Whilst working under the jurisdiction of Ba of E will only coach individuals that are registered/affiliated to Ba of E;
• Not attempt to exert undue influences and pressures in order to obtain personal benefit or reward;
• Must be able to recognise and accept when to refer or recommend players to other coaches or structures;
• Agree what information what will be treated confidentially (this does not preclude disclosure of information to persons who can be judged to have a right to know such as in matters of discipline, legal and medical requirements or where an individuals health, safety or wellbeing may be at risk);
• Communicate and co-ordinate with medical practitioners in the diagnosis, treatment and management of a players’ medical/psychological problems;
• Be a positive role model;
• Project a good personal appearance of cleanliness and never smoke in the coaching environment, or coach whilst under the influence of alcohol or any other intoxicating substance;
• Never use foul, sexist or racist language or act in a violent/abusive manner;
• Refrain from undue public criticism of other coaches or match officials.
• Refrain from posting negative or derogatory comments on social media about other clubs, coaches or officials.
• Refrain from posting any comments on social media which bring the reputation of Ba of E into disrepute.
• Follow all Ba of E guidance on Social Media, Appropriate Communication and the Duty of Care policies.

Family/guardians of participants

• Teach your child to treat everyone equally and sensitively regardless of their age, disability, gender, race, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or political affiliation; gender, ethnic origin or cultural background;
• Support all efforts to remove verbal, physical and racist abuse from badminton ;
• Not force an unwilling participant to take part in badminton ;
• Remember that young people are involved for their enjoyment – not yours;
• Encourage all to play by the rules and respect the match officials;
• Never ridicule or shout at a participant for making a mistake or losing a game;
• Teach that effort and teamwork are as important as victory, so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment;
• Remember that young people and vulnerable adults learn best by example;
• Refrain from publicly questioning the judgement or honesty of match officials;
• Recognise the value and importance of volunteers in badminton. They give their time, energy and resources to provide recreational activities for others.
• Not shout abuse at officials, coaches, players or other spectators.

Spectators of games under the jurisdiction of Truro Badminton Club

• Do not use offensive, discriminatory or obscene language or gestures. Do not harass or verbally abuse players, coaches, match officials or fellow spectators in any form;
• Treat everyone equally and sensitively regardless of age, disability, gender, race, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religious beliefs or political affiliation;
• Condemn the use of violence in all forms and refrain from any violent or aggressive behaviour;
• Show respect for opponents and match officials. Without them there would be no game;
• Acknowledge good performance and fair play by opponents as well as by your own team;
• Remember the players are taking part for their enjoyment not yours;
• Do not ridicule players who make mistakes;
• Do not over emphasise the importance of winning;
• On no account should you enter the court unless authorised otherwise;
• Do not shout abuse at officials, coaches, players or other spectators;

Adults to young people

• Be aware of how your language and behaviour may have an effect and ensure you do not use foul language, humiliate or bully any young person;
• Make sure you are fully aware of and follow the latest guidance on working with young people;
• Treat everyone with respect and dignity, recognising the additional needs or disadvantages of those with disabilities or from minority backgrounds;
• Set a good example as young people will learn from you;
• Make sure disciplinary actions are non violent/humiliating and use rewards, praise and acknowledgment to reinforce good behaviour;
• Listen and act if a young person tells you they’re being bullied or abused.

Young people to each other

• Never bully, spread rumours or tell lies about other young people;
• Welcome and include new players whatever their background or ability;
• Control your emotions – verbal or physical abuse is not acceptable at any time;
• Don’t show off or try to humiliate other players;
• Don’t ridicule or blame team mates who make mistakes;
• Make sure you tell your coach/parents if another young person confides in you and you think they need help.

Anti-bullying

Truro badminton clubis committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for everyone to train and play in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, everyone should be able to tell, and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a TELLING club. This means anyone who knows bullying is happening is expected to tell staff and officials.

What is bullying?

Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim. Bullying can take many forms some of which we’ve listed below:

• Emotional: being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (for example: hiding kit, or making threatening gestures)
• Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
• Racist: racial taunts, graffiti and/or gestures
• Sexual: unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments
• Homophobic: because of, or focusing on, the issue of sexuality
• Verbal: name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours and teasing
• Cyber: All areas of the internet, such as email and internet chatrooms. Mobile threats by text message and/or calls. Misuse of associated technology, such as camera and video facilities

Why is it important to respond to bullying?

Bullying hurts. No one should be a victim of bullying. Everyone has the right to be treated with respect. Children or adults who are bullying need to learn different ways of behaving. We have a responsibility to respond promptly, and effectively, to issues of bullying.

Objectives of this policy

• All officials, coaching and non-coaching staff, children and parents at Trturo Badminton Club have an understanding of what bullying is.
• All officials, coaching and non-coaching staff know what our club policy is on bullying, and follow it when bullying is reported.
• All children and parents should know what the club policy is on bullying, and what they should do if bullying arises
• As a club, we take bullying seriously. Children and parents should be assured they will be supported when bullying is reported. Bullying will not be tolerated.

Prevention of bullying

We will use KIDSCAPE methods to help children prevent bullying. As and when appropriate, these may include:

• Writing a set of club rules
• Signing a behaviour contract
• Having discussions about bullying and why it matters

Please do not hesitate to raise concerns with our Child Welfare Officer, or any other member of the management team, should they arise.

Anti Doping

Truro badminton club condemns and is totally opposed to performance enhancing and recreation drug use in the sport of badminton. All involved in badminton must:

• Familiarise themselves with the UK Anti Doping Rules.
• Take sole responsibility for all foods, medications and supplements taken;
• Be aware disciplinary action may be taken for criminal conviction for possession or use of drugs.

Any drug misuse or abuse will be considered a serious misconduct and investigated according to the club disciplinary policy.

Procedures

Any breach of the code of conduct will be considered misconduct and investigated according to the club disciplinary policy.

• Any bullying will be considered a serious misconduct.
• Report child bullying incidents to the Club Safeguarding Officers. Report adult bullying incidents to the team captain, chairman or vice-chairman.
• In cases of serious bullying involving a child, the incidents will be reported to the Child Protection Team for advice via the County Welfare Officer. Parents will be informed and will be asked to come to a meeting to discuss the problem
• If necessary, and appropriate, police will be consulted
• The bullying behaviour or threats of bullying must be investigated and the bullying stopped quickly
• An attempt will be made to help the bully (bullies) change their behaviour