If the club decides it is appropriate to deal with the situation, the following procedure will be followed:

Reconciliation by getting the parties together. It may be that a genuine apology solves the problem.

If this fails/not appropriate a small panel from the Club Committee including the Club Welfare Officer will meet with the parent and child alleging bullying to get details of the allegation. Minutes will be taken for clarity, which will be agreed by all as a true account.

The same panel will meet with the alleged bully and parent/s and put the incident raised to them to answer and give their view of the allegation. Minutes will again be taken and agreed.

If bullying has in the panel’s view taken place the individual will be warned and put on notice of further action i.e. temporary or permanent suspension if the bullying continues. Consideration will be given as to whether a reconciliation meeting between parties is appropriate at this time.

In some cases the parent of the bully or bullied player can be asked to attend training sessions, if they are able to do so, and if appropriate. The club committee will monitor the situation for a given period to ensure the bullying is not being repeated.

All coaches involved with both individuals will be made aware of the concerns.

In the case of adults reported to be bullying anyone within the Club under the age of 18, The County FA Welfare Officer will always be informed and will advise on action to be taken where appropriate.