Waterside Gymnastics Club bullying policy is written in conjunction with British Gymnastics policy for the safeguarding of children and runs alongside Waterside’s own Code of conduct for gymnasts, coaches, helpers and parents.

The Club acknowledges that the competitive nature of sport can result in tensions between participants, but Waterside will not condone bullying in any circumstance.

Examples of bullying in gymnastics could be:

• A gymnast who intimidates fellow gymnasts inappropriately;
• A coach who adopts a win-at-all costs philosophy;
• A parent who pushes too hard;
• An official who places unfair pressure on a person.

The club recognise that bullying is behaviour, usually repeated over time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group; physically or emotionally.  The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated.  Bullying may take many forms and may be conducted in person or through the actions of another person / other people.  These include: – emotional, physical, sexual, cyber, racist.

The Club will endeavour to promote the higher standards of care for al its members and discourage bullying by:

• Creating an open environment and provide adequate supervision at all times;
• Encourage children to speak and share any concerns with the person in charge, the Welfare Officer or other responsible adults;
• Ensuring that all signs or allegations of possible bullying are taken seriously and are responded to appropriately.

In the event of a bullying incident, all coaches will:

• Offer reassurance and support to a victim of bullying;
• Explain that someone in authority will need to be informed;
• Keep accurate records of incident and all involved;
• Report all suspicions or concerns to a coach in charge and the Welfare Officer.

All incidents will be handled sensitively, professionally and in confidence.  Sanctions or disciplinary action may be taken against gymnasts or coaches if necessary.