Statement of intent

RCC are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our children so they can train, and play, in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all children should be able to tell, and know, 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 someone who can do something about it.

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 :

• 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: bullying behaviour online or via electronic communication (email and text, social media etc) 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 who are bullying also need to learn different ways of behaving.  Cricket clubs have a responsibility to respond promptly, and effectively, to issues of bullying.

Objectives of this policy

• All adults and children at the club should have an understanding of what bullying is.
• All officials, coaching and non-coaching staff should know what the 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.

 Signs and symptoms

 A child may indicate, by signs or behaviour, that he or she is being bullied. Adults should be aware of signs and investigate if a child:

• Says they are being bullied.
• Changes their usual routine.
• Is unwilling to go to the club.
• Becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence.
• Comes home with clothes torn or belongings damaged.
• Has possessions which are damaged or go missing.
• Asks for money or starts stealing money (to pay the bully).
• Has unexplained cuts or bruises.
• Is frightened to say what’s wrong.
• Gives improbable excuses for any of the above.

In more extreme cases, the child:

• Starts stammering.
• Cries themselves to sleep at night or has nightmares.
• Becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable.
• Is bullying other children or siblings.
• Stops eating.
• Attempts or threatens suicide or runs away.

These signs and behaviours could indicate other problems, but bullying is a possibility and should be investigated.

Procedures

• Report bullying incidents to the Club Safeguarding Officers.
• In cases of serious bullying, the incidents will be reported to the ECB Safeguarding Team for advice via the County Safeguarding Officer.
• Parents should be informed and invited 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.
• In cases of adults reported to be bullying cricketers under 18, the ECB must always be informed and will advise on action to be taken.

Prevention

 We will use ‘Kidscape*’ recommended methods to help children prevent bullying.

These may include:

• Reviewing and further developing RCC’s Code of Conduct and Rules for Young Players.
• Agreeing behaviour contracts.
• Having discussions about bullying and why it matters.

Main contacts for RCC: Child Safeguarding Officer: Bethan Eyres; 07870 230111; bethan_eyres@hotmail.com

*with thanks to Kidscape for their expert advice and templates

RCC January 2023

Rowledge Cricket Club has a zero tolerance policy against any form of discrimination

The Club strives to maintain an environment in which no individual, group or organisation experiences any form of discrimination, or feels excluded in any way.

Statement of intent of the anti-discrimination code

• To maintain the integrity, diversity and inclusivity of cricket
• To create an environment within cricket where no individual, group or organisation experiences discrimination or acts in a discriminatory manner on the basis of a Protected Characteristic
• To set out discriminatory behaviour which, when carried out by a participant who is required to comply with it, will be a breach of the Code and may be sanctioned by the Club accordingly
• Protected characteristics are (Equality Act 2010)
  • age
  • disability
  • gender reassignment
  • marriage and civil partnership
  • pregnancy and maternity
  • race
  • religion or belief
  • sex
  • sexual orientation

Objectives of the code

• All adults and children at the club should have an understanding of what discrimination is
• All officials, coaching and non-coaching staff should know what the Club policy is on discrimination, and follow it when discrimination is reported
• All children and parents should know what the Club policy is on discrimination, and what they should do if discrimination arises
• As a club, we take discrimination seriously. Children and parents should be assured that they will be supported when discrimination is reported

Anti-discrimination code

• All Participants (as defined below) agree by virtue of their involvement in cricket to be bound by this Code and submit to the disciplinary jurisdiction of the Club
• Participant means
  • the Club
  • employees, directors, officers, committee members, contractors and volunteers of the Club
  • match officials, coaches, players
  • an individual taking part in a cricket match or event under the jurisdiction of the RCC
  • any RCC Member
  • spectators
  • any other individual who the Club chooses to have bound by this Code

• It will be a breach of this Code for any Participant to:
  • discriminate against any person or persons based upon any relevant Protected Characteristic, whether by act or omission, directly or indirectly, unless permitted by law; and/or
  • engage in conduct related to a relevant Protected Characteristic which has the purpose or effect of violating another’s dignity, or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for that person or persons.

• In deciding whether the conduct has the effect referred to above, the following shall be taken into account
  • the perception of the relevant person or persons,
  • the circumstances of the case, and
  • whether it is reasonable for the conduct to have that effect.
• It will be a breach of this Code for the Club to fail to provide an effective, timely and proportionate response to an alleged breach
• The breaches referred to above shall apply regardless of whether the Protected Characteristic(s) around which the breach is based applies to the person or people to whom the offending conduct is directed
  • Example: If a player makes a homophobic comment directed at another player during a match, regardless of whether that other player belongs to the group referred to, this would amount to a breach of the Anti-Discrimination Code.

• Any breach of this Code may also constitute an offence or breach of other applicable laws, rules and/or regulations. This Code is intended to supplement such other laws, rules and regulations and is not intended, and may not be interpreted, construed or applied, to prejudice or undermine in any way the application of such other laws, rules and/or regulations. Participants therefore acknowledge and agree that this Code does not limit their responsibilities or obligations under other laws, rules and/or regulations.

What is discrimination?

Discrimination means treating some people differently from others. Breaches can include not only actively discriminatory actions and/or words but also making omissions and/or failing to act as required.  There are four main types of discrimination.

Direct discrimination: treating one person worse than another person because of a protected characteristic. For example, a promotion comes up at work. The employer believes that people’s memories get worse as they get older so doesn’t tell one of his older employees about it, because he thinks the employee wouldn’t be able to do the job.

Indirect discrimination: when an organisation puts a rule or a policy or a way of doing things in place which has a worse impact on someone with a protected characteristic than someone without one. For example a local authority is planning to redevelop some of its housing. It decides to hold consultation events in the evening. Many of the female residents complain that they cannot attend these meetings because of childcare responsibilities.

Harassment: treatment in a way that violates your dignity, or creates a hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment. For example a man with Down’s syndrome is visiting a pub with friends. The bar staff make derogatory and offensive comments about him, which upset and offend him.

Victimisation: treatment which is unfair if you are taking action under the Equality Act (like making a complaint of discrimination), or if you are supporting someone else who is doing so. For example, an employee makes a complaint of sexual harassment at work and is dismissed as a consequence.

Procedure

If you feel you have witnessed or been the victim of a breach of this code, you must disclose the details of the incident to the Club by contacting the Club Safeguarding Officer Bethan Eyres at bethan_eyres@hotmail.com or on 07870 230111. If you prefer to make the disclosure anonymously please contact the ECB direct via their centrally resourced process with associated and independent expertise to manage any reports found here https://www.ecb.co.uk/reporting-discrimination. RCC and/or the ECB will endeavour to provide an effective, timely and proportionate response to any alleged breach.

RCC January 2023

RCC is firmly committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for children to enjoy the game.

RCC follows the following Safer Recruitment practices to ensure all staff and volunteers in cricket are suitable for their role, appropriately vetted and supported.

 Volunteer Coordinator

The RCC Junior Manager acts as Volunteer Coordinator. The Volunteer Coordinator ensures that the Club’s volunteers are well managed and supported in all their different roles.

This may include:

• Recruiting new volunteers into the club from existing membership and from the local community.
• Inducting and welcoming new volunteers.
• Organising relevant training/workshops for volunteers.
• Providing support to new and existing volunteers.
• Ensuring reward and recognition of volunteers

As part of Safer Recruitment practice, the Club will take the following measures:

• Clearly identify the role recruited for
• Identify the skills and knowledge required for the role
• Interview volunteers – explore why they are interested in the role and why they want to be involved in cricket
• Collect references from a suitable organisation such as an employer, community organisation or sports club
• Ask to see certificates and evidence of qualifications
• Supervised Trial Session – this is particularly relevant for coaches to enable the Club to see how they engage with children, young people, parents and other club members
• Discuss with the individual any gaps in their skills and knowledge and what training may be appropriate to address these
• Support the individual on an ongoing basis, including 1:1 check-ins, observations, recognising achievements and training needs.

All organisations working with children have safeguarding responsibilities and clear requirements placed upon them by legislation.

This applies whether you are a club, league, panel or another organisation. Legislation exists to ensure safer recruitment practices are followed, including DBS checks for those in regulated activity.

It is RCC Policy that all staff and volunteers in cricket must go through an appropriate vetting process prior to appointment to establish their suitability to work with children.

Staff and volunteers working with children in sport may be defined as working in “Regulated Activity”.

Clubs who appoint individuals, whether paid or unpaid, into Regulated Activity are subject to legal obligations: specifically, the ‘Regulated Activity Provider’ (the Club) has a legal duty to ensure that a person it engages to undertake regulated activity is not barred from doing so.  This is achieved by RCC by following the ‘ECB Guidance on Roles in Cricket that require a Vetting Check’ and undertaking DBS checks as appropriate.

The roles in cricket that require an ECB Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check are:

• Club Safeguarding Officer
• Volunteer Coordinator
• Coach
• Assistant Coach
• Age Group Team Manager
• Junior Supervisor
• Captain / Vice captain
• Team Manager
• Umpire
• Scorer
• County Safeguarding Officer
• League Safeguarding Officer
• Safeguarding Recruiter
• Physiotherapist
• Psychologist
• Medical Staff
• Personal Development Manager
• Strength/Conditioning Coach
• Children Academy Director
• Children’s Cricket Talent Scout
• All Stars / Dynamos Children’s Activator
• All Stars / Dynamos Children’s Helper

A specific ECB DBS is required for anyone undertaking a regulated activity role in cricket. 

Applying for an ECB DBS check is straightforward, and the process is now all online

For volunteers the process is free and there is an option to enrol onto the Update Service which will mean that if an individual’s details do not change, they may never have to do another DBS application in cricket.

If you require an ECB DBS certificate, please contact our Club Safeguarding Officer in the first instance to request that your application is initiated.

Once your application is initiated, you will receive an email with easy-to-follow instructions to help you make your application. There is a helpdesk function within the system. When the DBS have concluded their checks, you will receive a paper copy of your certificate in the post.

The Club Safeguarding Officer

RCC’s Club Safeguarding Officers are responsible for advising the club on current best practice as well as leading the implementation and maintenance of the various elements of “Safe Hands”.  The Club Safeguarding Officer positions exist to help RCC create a welcoming and child- centred environment at the club.

Club Safeguarding Officers are vital members of the club and key to making an environment safe, welcoming and friendly for everyone to enjoy the game of cricket.

Club Safeguarding Officers need to complete three sets of training:

• Online ‘Safeguarding for Specialist Roles’
• A ‘top up’ online module – ‘Safeguarding for Committee Members and Club Safeguarding Officers’
• Face to face ‘Safe Hands’ workshop which is run by the local County Cricket Board

These courses should be updated every 3 years.

The Club Safeguarding Officer must advise RCC on which roles within the club require the post holder to undertake the ECB vetting process as part of the recruitment and appointment process. The ‘ECB Guidance on Vetting Checks’ contains details of posts which require vetting checks.

Ideally the Club Safeguarding Officer should have a significant role within the process for recruiting volunteers and staff to a club, working closely with the Volunteer Coordinator where one is in place.

Recruitment and Selection of Volunteers

The safety of children should be paramount in all RCC activities and these guidelines are designed to help RCC in this.

The ECB and RCC is committed to providing a welcoming, child-friendly and safe environment for children.   Most of those working with children in cricket only have the best possible intentions. However, the ECB and RCC recognises it has a responsibility to safeguard children and understands that sound recruitment and selection procedures can help deter or screen out those who are not suitable.  When clubs, or leagues, recruit new volunteers, or paid staff, all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with children. In addition, the volunteer selection processes used by the club, or league, must be consistent and fair at all times. 

Planning

RCC will draw up a profile, which highlights the main areas of an identified role, deciding on the skills and experience needed to fulfil the requirements of the role and draw up a ‘person specification’.

Any recruitment process should be developed in such a way as to ensure every applicant is treated in a fair and consistent manner.

 Application forms

Where jobs are advertised and persons not approached on an individual basis RCC will use application forms to collect information on each applicant.  These will be stored and retained in a consistent way. More than one person should review the application forms to ensure a fair and equitable scrutiny is completed.   Identification documents will be used to confirm the identity of the applicant (e.g. passport or driving licence).

Meeting/interview

It is highly recommended RCC club officials meet with all applicants for advertised positions prior to any recruitment decisions being made and that more than one official is present. The meeting/interview will enable the club to explore information provided in the application form in further detail. Questions to ask the applicant should be prepared in advance and ensure the applicant has an opportunity to recount previous experiences and give examples of how they have handled, or would handle, situations.  Although it is important to gain information about an applicant’s relevant technical capabilities, it is also necessary to explore attitudes and commitment to child safeguarding. Listed below are sample questions which could help discover this information:

• Tell us about your previous experiences of working with children
• Give the applicant a child-related scenario, such as: ‘It is a winter evening, the training session has finished and a parent has not arrived to pick up their child’. Then ask the applicant what they would do in that situation
• Is there anything we should know that could affect your suitability to work with children? Have you ever been refused work with children?

 References

Good practice in safe recruitment for positions involving work with children is to seek at least two references from individuals not related to the applicant. One reference should be associated with the applicant’s place of work and, if possible, one that demonstrates the individual’s previous involvement in sport, particularly children’s cricket. Both references should contain a statement relating to the referee’s awareness of the responsibilities the post applied for requires. References should be followed up prior to any offer of appointment being made. If the references raise concerns, RCC are advised to contact the ECB Safeguarding Team for advice and guidance

Vetting Procedures including DBS checks

The vetting process is very important in determining if someone is suitable to work with children. RCC must follow the ‘ECB Guidance on Roles in Cricket that require a Vetting Check’.   If an applicant is from outside the UK, or has lived outside the UK within the last five years, then alternative vetting procedures will be required as detailed later in this section.

Volunteers and others in cricket need be assured the ECB will take into account the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and only consider offences relevant to the care, supervision and training of children.  The ECB is not allowed to tell the club or County Board about the actual offending history (unless it needs to share information to safeguard children), so applicants are assured of confidentiality. The ECB will, however, tell the club and County Board whether or not the person is considered suitable to work with children.  Applications for vetting should be co-ordinated by the Club Safeguarding Officer.   Clubs must recognise that asking an individual to complete a DBS  application form is the first stage of the ECB vetting process.

The outcome of the application must be sought from the County Cricket Development Manager, County Safeguarding Officer or the ECB Safeguarding Team. It is possible for the vetting process to take several weeks. RCC will ask the individual to complete a DBS application form as soon as possible and advise them that they should not start the post/job until an outcome of the application is confirmed by the County Cricket Board or the ECB Safeguarding Team. If an applicant claims to be ECB Vetted, the club should seek confirmation of this from the County Cricket Board Development Manager, the County Safeguarding Officer or the ECB Safeguarding Team.

 Recruitment decisions

RCC will consider all the information they receive via the application form, confirmation of identity, the references and the outcome of the ECB Vetting process. This information will be considered alongside the outcome of the meeting/interview before making a decision as to whether or not to accept the applicant into the role.

 Post recruitment

It is important that once a new volunteer has been recruited follow up action is taken, for example:

• Any qualifications should be substantiated, for example, obtain photocopies of coaching certificates
• New volunteers are made aware of, and sign up to, the club’s child safeguarding policy and procedures, best practice guidelines and codes of conduct
• Any training needs are established and action taken to put these into place
• A statement of the roles and responsibilities of the new volunteer is prepared
• Initially, a period of supervision/observation or mentoring could be introduced to support the new volunteer

Umpires and scorers

Umpires and scorers are usually organised through a regional or league appointment panel. However, where RCC is appointing an umpire and/or scorer for games involving children, it is the responsibility of the club to check the umpire/scorer:

• Is covered by relevant current insurance
• Is a member of the ECB Association of Cricket Officials (ACO)
• Has been through the vetting process with the ECB to check his/her suitability to work with children in cricket
• Agrees to abide by the ECB Code of Conduct for Members and Guests at all times, especially when umpiring/scoring

Non-UK vetting

The legal situation regarding Regulated Activity is no different if the individual is not from the UK. Vetting checks need to be undertaken on post holders regardless of nationality. Different countries operate varying methods for providing background checks and not all countries are able to provide this service.   Individuals will need to provide a police certificate or similar Certificate of Good conduct which covers their time in the overseas country, to the ECB Safeguarding Team.  Contact the ECB safeguarding team on safeguarding@ecb.co.uk for advice and assistance on overseas checking.    The ECB Safeguarding Team is also able to provide some guidance on other countries.   Non-UK vetting must also be undertaken on British passport holders who have lived abroad in the past five years. It is easier if Non UK vetting checks are organised before the individual arrives in the UK, as they are able to visit the police station etc. in person.   Background checks are undertaken on any individual who works, either in a paid or volunteer capacity, with children. It is important to note non-UK vetting checks are only done for the role being undertaken by the individual.

SEE Non-Uk-Resident-Vetting-Form-2018-ecb

 All visitors to the UK coming through the Tier 5 cricket route of immigration must be vetted as part of the process.

If a visitor to the UK has come through an alternative immigration route but intend to offer coaching services (if allowed by their visa or Home Office rules), they must also complete the vetting process.

RCC should be aware the laws relating to Regulated Activity apply even if the individual is not from the UK.

Non-UK vetting must also be undertaken on British passport holders who have lived abroad in the past five years.

RCC January 2023

These guidelines apply to adults, and children and junior members, sharing changing facilities. Anyone under the age of 18 is a junior member.

• Adults must not change, or shower, at the same time using the same facility as children or junior members.
• Adults should try to change at separate times to children during matches, for example when children or junior members are padding up.
• If adults and children/junior members need to share a changing facility, the Club must have written consent from parents/guardians that their child(ren)/junior members can share a changing room with adults in the club, this is especially relevant where junior players are playing in Open Age cricket.
• If children/junior members play for Open Age teams, they, and their parents/guardians, must be informed of the Club’s policy on changing arrangements.
• Mixed gender teams must have access to separate male and female changing rooms/areas
• Mobile phones or other portable devices that are capable of taking photographs or video must not be used in changing rooms.
• If children or junior members are uncomfortable changing or showering at the club, no pressure should be placed on them to do so. It can be suggested instead that they may change and shower at home.

RCC January 2023

Please note RCC’s Junior Section operates a 3 step disciplinary procedure as follows:

Step 1: If a child repeatedly misbehaves or disrupts our coaching sessions, and is not receptive to a coach asking him or her to desist, a coach will raise the matter with the child’s parents / guardians.

Step 2: If the poor behaviour continues the child’s parent / guardian will be required to attend and supervise their child for the full duration of all sessions until the poor behaviour desists.

Step 3: If the poor behaviour continues following step 2 the child will be excluded from all sessions.

The timeframe for each stage will be determined on a case by case basis and communicated to the parents/guardians appropriately. 

RCC January 2023

Rowledge Cricket Club (RCC) has adopted the ECB General Conduct Regulations (GCR) for Recreational Cricket.

ECB GCR can be found here

ECB GCR guidance and FAQs can be found here

Purpose:

RCC has adopted the GCR to set consistent standards of conduct and behaviour and provide a set of regulations to be applied for breaches of the standards.

The GCR applies to all individuals who are under the jurisdiction of RCC, including:

• (a) Cricketers;
• (b) Volunteers, officers, employees, contractors, and members;
• (c) Match officials;
• (d) Coaches; and
• (e) Any other person under the jurisdiction of RCC.

Cricketers will be subject to on-field conduct obligations mirroring the Laws of Cricket.

Other participants present at matches (e.g. coaches, officials and representatives of other cricket organisations acting in an official capacity at the match) will be subject to more limited on-field conduct obligations (as is the case in the professional game).

Participants in recreational cricket will be subject to off-field conduct obligations which either relate to their participation in recreational cricket or occur outside their direct participation but are of a sufficiently serious nature to justify disciplinary action being taken in relation to recreational cricket (e.g. discriminatory comments being made on social media).

There is reduced scope for bringing disciplinary action against representatives of cricket organisations, as opposed to cricketers, coaches and officials, given the role they play within cricket.

RCC will appoint a disciplinary officer or a disciplinary panel on a case by case basis. Any complaints should in the first instance be directed to the General Secretary.

Where the offence is more serious, the disciplinary officer will select a disciplinary panel to consider the matter at a hearing.

RCC may adopt a more streamlined procedure for low-level offences, i.e. on-field offences at Level 1 and Level 2. This will involve a single disciplinary chair considering whether there has been a breach of the Regulations and, if so, what sanctions should be imposed.

In appropriate circumstances, the chair may direct that the charge be considered by the disciplinary panel on the basis of written submissions only (i.e. without an in-person hearing), although a hearing shall be arranged if requested by the respondent.

For any alleged breaches of the conduct obligations, RCC will follow the disciplinary procedure, sanctions guidelines, penalties and appeals process, including data protection obligations, as set out in the GCR and accompanying appendices. All disciplinary hearings will comply with relevant procedural rules, principles and considerations in order to ensure that there is a fair hearing and consistent administration of justice across the sport.

Under 18s and Adults at Risk:

It should be noted that

When handling proceedings involving an under-18 or an adult at risk who is a witness,  alleged victim or alleged offender, the processes that are followed must pay due consideration to safeguarding and welfare issues and associated data protection laws. Guidance on disciplinary proceedings that involve under-18s can be found below. Disciplinary proceedings that involve an adult at risk must adhere to the RCC Safeguarding Adults Policy.

It should be noted that reasonable adjustments should be made for anyone with a disability.

Conduct obligations as stated in the GCR (The Club can amend and/or supplement certain of the provisions – they are shown as italics in this document. In the full GCR document, provisions that a club can amend, including conduct obligations, disciplinary process, hearings and appeals are underlined.)

 On and around the field of play 

4. Any cricketer shall be in breach of these Regulations, at the relevant level of offence detailed below, if they do not conduct themselves fairly and properly on and around the field of play and otherwise in accordance with the Laws of Cricket or the Spirit of Cricket. A cricketer shall be in breach of these Regulations if they commit any misconduct on any match day as specified in Law 42 of the Laws of Cricket, namely:

 Level 1 

• • wilfully mistreating any part of the cricket ground or any equipment or implements  used in the match; 
  • showing dissent at an umpire’s decision by word or action; 
  • using language that, in the circumstances, is obscene, offensive or insulting;
  • making an obscene gesture; 
  • appealing excessively; 
  • advancing towards an umpire in an aggressive manner when appealing; and/or
  • any other misconduct, the nature of which is, in the opinion of the umpires,  equivalent to a Level 1 offence; or 

Level 2 

• • showing serious dissent at an umpire’s decision by word or action; 
  • making inappropriate and deliberate physical contact with another cricketer;
  • throwing the ball at a cricketer, umpire or another person in an inappropriate and  dangerous manner; 
  • using language or gesture to another cricketer, umpire, team official or spectator  that, in the circumstances, is obscene or of a seriously insulting nature; and/or
  • any other misconduct, the nature of which is, in the opinion of the umpires,  equivalent to a Level 2 offence; or 

Level 3

• • intimidating an umpire by language or gesture; and/or
  • threatening to assault a cricketer or any other person except an umpire;

 Level 4

• • threatening to assault an umpire; 
  • making inappropriate and deliberate and/or dangerous physical contact with an  umpire; 
  • physically assaulting a cricketer or any other person; and/or 
  • committing any other act of violence 

5. Any coach, match official or Club Official shall be in breach of these Regulations if they fail to conduct themselves fairly and properly on any part of the cricket ground on any match day.  Conduct which is not fair and proper and will therefore result in a breach of these Regulations shall include, but not be limited to:  

• • making inappropriate and deliberate and/or dangerous physical contact with, threatening to assault, physically assaulting or committing any act of violence towards  any other Participant (including an umpire) or any member of the public; 
  • showing dissent at an umpire’s decision by language or gesture, advancing towards  an umpire in an aggressive manner when appealing or intimidating an umpire by  language or gesture; 
  • using language that, in the circumstances, is obscene, offensive, insulting or seriously  insulting; 
  • making an obscene or seriously insulting gesture; 
  • conducting themselves in a manner or acting in a manner which is improper, or which may be prejudicial to the interests of cricket, or which may bring the ECB, the game  of cricket or any cricketer or group of cricketers into disrepute; and/or 
  • Acting in a manner contrary to the ECB’s Anti-Discrimination Code. 

6. If an umpire considers that there has been an On-Field Breach, they must make reasonable efforts to inform the individual (or their captain or a Club Official) before they leave the ground and make a Disciplinary Report to the ECB Disciplinary Officer. This Disciplinary Report shall be made irrespective of any action the umpire may have taken on the field of play. Other  individuals can also report On-Field Breaches either to the umpire, in which case the umpire  will make a Disciplinary Report, or to the ECB Disciplinary Officer directly by way of Written  Complaint (for example, if the On-Field Breach relates to a match official). If there is no umpire appointed to a particular match, individuals can report On-Field Breaches to a captain or Club Official who can then make a Disciplinary Report on their behalf.

Captain/Team responsibility  

7. If any cricketer commits three or more breaches of Regulation 4 (Conduct obligations on and around the field of play), which take place during or immediately before or after a match, when playing for the same Club in a season it shall automatically be a separate offence of failing to ensure that the relevant cricketers have complied with their obligations for each of:  

• • Any person who captained the team in each of the relevant match(es); and
  • The Club the cricketer was playing for. 

8. Clubs shall also be held responsible for disorderly behaviour on any part of the cricket ground on any match day by their members and spectators, unless they can show that:

• • they took adequate steps to ensure that their members and spectators behaved in an  orderly fashion; and/or  
  • They did not or could not control entry to that part of the cricket ground by the relevant spectators and it would therefore not be fair for them to be held responsible.  

Off-field conduct  

9. A Participant shall be in breach of these Regulations if they commit any misconduct as set out  below which either relates to their participation in ECB Competitions and/or is of a sufficiently  serious nature to justify disciplinary action being taken in relation to their participation in ECB  Competitions:   

• • making an abusive, obscene, offensive or otherwise insulting comment or gesture (in  any form) in relation to any other Participant or any other person;  
  • any act of violence towards another person;  
  • engaging in behaviour that constitutes any form of abuse or harassment, whether  physical, sexual, emotional, neglectful or bullying in nature;  
  • any breach of the ECB Anti-Discrimination Code;  
  • making any adverse public statement or comment in any form and by any means  about the performance and/or decision(s) of any match official(s);
  • failing to report to their Club, any Relevant Criminal Offence for which they have been  subject to investigation and/or charged with;
  • conducting themselves in a manner, or doing or omitting to do anything which is or  may be prejudicial to the best interests of cricket, or which may bring or does bring  the game of cricket, any Participant, Club, League, County Cricket Board or the ECB,  into disrepute;  
  • any breach of Law 41; or 
  • Failing to comply with any decisions or sanctions validly imposed on them following due process as prescribed by these Regulations.  

10. A Club shall be in breach of these Regulations if, at any time, it:  

• • fails to take reasonable steps to ensure the good behaviour and conduct of their  Participants for any breach of these Regulations; and/or  
  • knowingly permits a cricketer, who is suspended as a result of a previous breach of  these Regulations, to play in any match or competition; and/or 
  • any of its Participants commit any serious, collective or repeated breaches of these  Regulations; and/or 
  • commits any breach of its obligations under the ECB Anti-Discrimination Code;  and/or 
  • Fails to comply with any decision(s) and/or sanction(s) validly imposed on it or on any person within the organisation, which has arisen following due process as prescribed by these Regulations. 

11. Participants are considered responsible for any relevant posts on their social media accounts and may be in breach of Regulations 9-10 for posting, repeating, commending or supporting posts or comments by others (e.g. ‘retweeting’ or ‘liking’) on social media.  

12. If an umpire considers that there has been an Off-Field Breach which occurs on or around the field of play at a match, they will make reasonable efforts to inform the individual (or their captain or a Club Official) before they leave the ground and make a Disciplinary Report to the ECB Disciplinary Officer. Other individuals can also report an Off-Field Breach which occurs on  or around the field of play at a match to the umpire, in which case the umpire will make a  Disciplinary Report, or to the ECB Disciplinary Officer directly (wherever the Off-Field Breach  may have occurred) by way of a Written Complaint.

13. If the ECB Disciplinary Officer is aware that the Referral relates to a cricketer who is registered with a First-Class County, a Regional Host or a Hundred Team, the ECB Disciplinary Officer must inform the ECB’s Integrity Department that the Referral has been received and provide any further information in respect of the disciplinary process that is requested by the ECB.

Rowledge Cricket Club Disciplinary Procedure:

As per the GCR:

 All complaints regarding the behaviour of RCC staff, members, volunteers or any other individual under the jurisdiction of RCC and should be lodged in writing with the Club General Secretary.  Any such complaint should include a description of the alleged breach including:

• any relevant background information;
• name of witnesses;
• who was involved;
• what the Participant(s) is/are alleged to have done;
• anything anyone said at the time (including admissions and/or apologies); and
• any information regarding any relevant evidence and the context of that evidence

The Disciplinary Report Template form provided in the GCR appendix one may be used.

The report should be lodged within a reasonable time frame of the alleged breach.

The Club Secretary will contact the Management Committee who will nominate a Disciplinary Officer. The Disciplinary Officer may conduct further investigation to ensure that it is not a vexatious complaint and to consider whether there is sufficient information and/or grounds to charge the relevant Participant, Club or League with a breach of these Regulations, before issuing a charge letter. The charge letter should be responded to within a reasonable timeframe. The Disciplinary Officer will arrange a Disciplinary sub-Committee in accordance with the GCR and follow the disciplinary procedure as laid out.

All parties to a Hearing will have the right to:

• (a) Be accompanied;
• (b) Have the complaint explained;
• (c) See and hear the evidence being presented;
• (d) Present their account of the relevant conduct;
• (e) Represent themselves at the Hearing or arrange for a third party to act on their behalf; and/or
• (f) Ask for the Hearing to be rearranged and offer reasonable alternative date(s) if they are unable to attend on the date proposed.

Sanctions will be imposed as per the GCR appendix three Sanction Guidelines including due review of aggravating and mitigating factors. The Disciplinary Chair or Disciplinary sub-Committee shall not be limited to imposing the recommended sanctions and can impose greater or lesser sanctions as appropriate in the circumstances of the particular case.

Proposed Disciplinary sub-Committee membership

• Chairman of the Cricket sub-Committee
• Junior or Youth Manager
• Club Cricket Secretary

The appeals process will be followed where properly applied for.

Disciplinary Proceedings that Involve under-18s

Proceedings where an under-18 is a witness, alleged victim or alleged offender.

In all situations where an under-18 is involved in disciplinary matters as a witness, alleged victim, alleged offender or any other way the processes that are followed must pay due consideration to safeguarding and welfare issues. No part of the processes should be oppressive or intimidating for the young person.

As soon as it becomes apparent that the process involves an under-18, the County Safeguarding Officer must be informed.

Any Disciplinary sub-Committee should consider whether they need the child to attend in person, and may discuss this with the County Safeguarding Officer.

When making this decision consideration should be given to:

• The age of the child;
• the seriousness of the offence;
• the evidence likely to be given;
• the possible effect on a child.

Parents should be included in any invitation.

The County Safeguarding Officer will ensure that the child is properly supported, and will either act as, or appoint, a suitable ‘Safeguarding Chaperone’ for the investigative/disciplinary process, in consultation with the child’s parent(s).

The Safeguarding Chaperone is likely to be the child’s Club Safeguarding Officer (Club SO), unless there is potential conflict of interest (e.g. the Club SO is the parent, or the Club SO is also involved in the incident.) If this is the case then a Club SO from another club may be asked to assist, or a League SO or the County Safeguarding Officer will undertake the role.

The Safeguarding Chaperone should have no other role in the proceedings – their involvement is purely in regard to the welfare of the child. The Safeguarding Chaperone should liaise with the child and his/her family throughout; making sure the child is kept fully informed. He or she can act for more than one child at the same hearing if this is thought appropriate.

If a child does not wish to attend they cannot be compelled to do so. The Safeguarding Chaperone will discuss the process with the child and his/her family to ensure they fully understand the procedure.

If the child chooses to give a statement to the Disciplinary sub-Committee then ordinarily that statement should be prepared in advance in written format. This can be written by the child or any other person. It is important that this statement is the child’s views and words.

If, when attending the Disciplinary sub-Committee, the child is to be questioned regarding their behaviour or what they have witnessed, all involved should bear in mind the age and potential vulnerability of the child in such a setting.

Questioning should be conducted in a considerate manner, and must not be oppressive, persistent, lengthy or demeaning. The Safeguarding Chaperone should ask the Chair of the Disciplinary sub-Committee to suspend proceedings immediately if they have any concerns about the manner or duration of questioning.

Where a child is found to have committed a disciplinary offence requiring potential sanction, consideration should be given to the child’s age and understanding, as well as their experience of life and of cricket, before any sanctions are issued.

Where it is necessary for a report to be circulated (either within the relevant cricket league or even to the press), any individual under 18 years of age must not have their details published.

RCC January 2023

Rowledge Cricket Club is committed to ensuring cricket is for everyone.

RCC will endeavour to create access and opportunities for all those individuals who wish to participate, and are lawfully eligible to participate, in its activities.

What EDI means for RCC

RCC are focussed on delivering equity, diversity and inclusion in cricket in order to make sure everyone feels like cricket is a game for them.

Equity 

Equity means fairness: we must ensure that individuals, or groups of individuals, are not treated less favourably because of their protected characteristics.

Equity also means equality of opportunity: we must also ensure that those who may be disadvantaged can get the tools they need to access the same, fair opportunities as their peers.

RCC will endeavour create fair access, opportunities, and equal possible outcomes for all.

Diversity 

Diversity is recognising, respecting and celebrating each other’s differences. A diverse environment is one with a wide range of backgrounds and mind-sets that enrich where we play and work.

RCC will support the presence of differences

• Differences can include visible and non-visible factors like the protected characteristics in the UK Equality Act 2010 as well as things like educational background, introvert/extrovert personalities, accent or culture.

• It’s not only about inherent characteristics. We recognise that certain aspects of diversity can also be acquired over time, like parenting and caring responsibilities, military experience or language skills.

Inclusion 

Inclusion means creating an environment where everyone feels welcome.

RCC will endeavour create a welcoming culture for all people where they feel they are valued and respected.

Why EDI is important to RCC

EDI will enable us to build the strongest teams and inspire the most people, improving lives and connecting communities.

What are the protected characteristics?

The following are the legal protected characteristics, under The Equality Act 2010:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

Discrimination on the grounds of any of these characteristics is illegal.

Tackling Discrimination 

Any form of discrimination in cricket is completely unacceptable and RCC will take all necessary steps to eradicate it wherever and whenever we find it.

RCC adopted the ECB Anti-Discrimination Code in 2022 that ensures that any incidence of discrimination that fall under our jurisdiction can be subject to disciplinary processes and sanctions.  We also actively encourage anyone involved in cricket – at any level – to report any discrimination they experience or witness to our Club Safeguarding Officer or anonymously through the ECB anonymous reporting scheme.

RCC January 2023

Where coaches, officers, volunteers, staff or other members are concerned that young people are developing extremist views or show signs of becoming radicalised, they should contact the Club Safeguarding Officer for further steps or make a report to the Club Safeguarding Officer using the Safeguarding Referral Form.

Extremism is holding a strong view beyond that which the majority of people think is OK to hold.

Violent extremism is the use of threats or violence in support of or to further extreme beliefs.

Extremism is defined by the Government in the 2011 Prevent Strategy as: ‘vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs.’ It also includes calls for death of members of the armed forces, whether in this country or overseas.

Radicalisation is the mental process of transformation a person undergoes over a period of time as they develop extreme views in support of extreme ideologies or beliefs. It can be the process by which a person comes to support terrorism and forms of extremism leading to terrorism.

Radicalisation has been described as a four stage process,

• Pre-radical: The person joins or identifies with a group or organisation
• Self-identify: The person believes and accepts the beliefs and views held by the group or organisation
• Indoctrination: The person is groomed by the group or organisation pulling them further down the pathway
• Terrorism: The person becomes involved in committing terrorist acts

Radicalisers use the internet to target, persuade and recruit vulnerable people by,

• posting propaganda and extremist content online such as extreme and often violent images, messages, speeches and videos on social media, private messaging platforms, gaming platforms and forums
• actively spreading fake news and misinformation to exploit people’s worries and insecurities
• distorting news stories about unemployment or homelessness to highlight an injustice and entice others to take action

Vulnerability to radicalisation in children and young people

Anyone can be vulnerable to radicalisation, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, religion, education or background. There are many social, personal, and environmental reasons that can make a young person vulnerable to exploitation by extremists: it is known that violent extremists exploit vulnerabilities in individuals to drive a wedge between them and their families and communities.

Indicators of vulnerability include:

• identity crisis – the young person is distanced from their cultural/religious heritage and experiences discomfort about their place in society
• personal crisis – the young person may be experiencing family tensions; a sense of isolation; and low self-esteem; a lack of belonging; they may have dissociated from their existing friendship group and become involved with a new and different group of friends; they may be searching for answers to questions about identity, faith and belonging
• personal circumstances – migration; local community tensions; and events affecting the student’s country or region of origin may contribute to a sense of grievance that is triggered by personal experience of racism or discrimination or aspects of Government policy
• un-met aspirations – the young person may have perceptions of injustice; a feeling of failure; rejection of civic life
• experiences of criminality – which may include involvement with criminal groups, imprisonment, and poor resettlement/reintegration
• special educational needs – young person may experience difficulties with social interaction, empathy with others, understanding the consequences of their actions and awareness of the motivations of others

Factors that can make some children and young people more at risk:

• being in contact with extremist recruiters
• accessing violent extremist websites, especially those with a social networking element
• possessing or accessing violent extremist literature
• experiencing a high level of social isolation resulting in issues of identity crisis and/or personal crisis
• having been the victim of bullying or discrimination, which has left them feeling isolated
• struggling with a sense of identity and feeling confused where they fit in or belong
• feeling under threat either personally, or as part of a community
• feeling angry or wronged about events like conflicts or terrorist incidents happening in the UK or abroad
• mental health issues
• a traumatic life event like bereavement, or the loss of a job or home
• experiencing racism, bullying or discrimination
• family issues
• the feeling of being left behind, alienated or apart from everyone else
• community tensions
• knowing someone who is expressing extreme views or who have joined extremist organisations or groups
• terrorist incidents that have happened in the UK or abroad
• events or incidents that are affecting a specific group or community, either in the UK or abroad
• a need for identity, meaning and belonging
• sometimes curiosity can lead children or young people to seek out extremist groups, or research information they feel supports their views

A significant event or incident may increase receptiveness to extreme views including:

• a personal crisis like losing a job
• not getting a job
• or it can be triggered by an outside event, like a terror attack here or in another country

There are many factors that may make a young person more vulnerable, this is not an exhaustive list.

Behaviours that may be signs of radicalisation in children or young people

It can be difficult to spot some of the signs in children and young people; they are often associated with ‘typical teenage behaviour’. Therefore it’s important to consider the intensity of the behaviour you are noticing rather than any one sign.

Changes in behaviours that may indicate radicalisation:

• significant, out of character changes in dress and behaviour
• becoming increasingly isolated from family and friends
• changing their circle of friends and peer relationships
• being influenced or controlled by a group
• talking as if from a scripted speech
• unwilling or unable to engage and discuss with you about their views
• becoming intolerant of other people’s views
• becoming intolerant of difference, including faith, culture, gender, race or sexuality
• increased levels of anger and becoming increasingly angry about issues or events they feel are unfair or unjust
• a harshness about them and they won’t accept different opinions
• a sudden disrespectful attitude towards others
• looking to blame others
• desire for status, need to dominate
• increasingly secretive behaviour, especially around internet use and who they are meeting online or in person
• an obsessive or angry desire for change or ‘something to be done’
• justifying the use of violence to solve societal issues
• making remarks or comments about being at extremist events or rallies
• spending an increasing amount of time online; accessing extremist material online; sharing extreme views and extremist messages on social media
• evidence of possessing illegal or extremist literature
• using extremist narratives and a global ideology to explain personal disadvantage
• advocating messages similar to illegal organisations or other extremist groups
• using extremist or hate terms to exclude others or incite violence
• glorifying and advocating violence towards others, especially to other faiths or cultures
• showing sympathy for extremist causes
• graffiti, art work or writing that displays extremist themes
• attempts to impose extremist views or practices on others
• verbalising anti-Western or anti-British views
• joining or seeking to join extremist organisations

One sign may increase in intensity or there may be a combination of different signs becoming apparent. More important than any one sign, is noticing that something is ‘not quite right’.

There are many signs and this is not an exhaustive list. In most cases these signs won’t be linked to radicalisation, there will be other explanations for the behaviour. Do not ignore behaviours you are concerned about, young people showing signs of radicalisation are considered as at risk of harm to themselves or others which is a safeguarding concern and must be communicated to the Club Safeguarding Officer.

RCC January 2023

All cricket clubs within the UK have a duty of care to those who play, work or visit the Club. Clubs with paid employees have a duty of care as described in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HASAWA) which requires all employers to provide a safe working environment and look out for the health of their employees wherever their place of work.

Rowledge Cricket Club (RCC) is required by law to have a written health and safety policy. Without a health and safety policy in place, the Club would be failing in it’s duty of care to all players, members and visitors of the Club. The Club will operate in accordance with the HASAWA and follow good health and safety practice.

Our Aim Is:

• To provide adequate control of the health and safety risks arising from the Club activities
• To consult with our members on matters affecting their health and safety
• To provide information, instruction and supervision for members
• To ensure all members and staff are competent to do their tasks and to give them adequate training
• To prevent accidents and cases of cricket activity related ill health
• To maintain a healthy environment for members
• To make explicit the procedures in regard to: first aid provision; dealing with an accident or incident (including accident reporting); safety guidelines for cricket; risk assessments;
• To provide and maintain safe plant and equipment
• To ensure safe handling and use of substances

Our Commitments:

To support our Health and Safety policy statement we are committed to the following duties to,

• undertake regular, recorded risk assessments of club premises and all activities undertaken by the club
• create a safe environment by putting health and safety measures in place as identified by the assessments
• provide access to adequate first aid facilities, telephone and where possible a qualified first aider
• record, and where required report, any injuries, incidents or accidents occurring during any club activity or whilst on the club premises
• ensure that all members are aware of, understand and follow the Club’s health and safety policy
• appoint a competent club member to assist with health and safety responsibilities
• ensure that the implementation of the policy is reviewed regularly and monitored for effectiveness
• ensure that all players are given the appropriate level of training and competition by regularly assessing individual ability dependant on age, maturity and development
• follow ECB guidelines for young cricketers

Club members have a duty:

It is the duty of all club members, coaches, volunteers, staff, participants, spectators and all others involved in cricket to,

• co-operate with the Management Committee on all health and safety matters
• take reasonable care of their own health and safety
• act responsibly
• do everything they can to prevent injury to themselves and colleagues
• correctly use equipment provided by the Club
• not interfere with or misuse anything provided by the Club for health, safety or welfare
• report all health and safety concerns to the Club Administrative Officer/Chair

Responsibility:

The Management Committee has prime responsibility for the health and safety of RCC activities. It is the duty of the Management Committee to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of all cricket participants, to prevent personal injury and to maintain a safe and healthy place for recreation.

Appoint a competent person to oversee health and safety:

Management responsibility for reviewing and ensuring the health and safety policy is implemented and requirements, including first aid functions, are put into practice, is held by the Club Chair.

Responsibility for specific areas:

• Ensuring safe Senior Matches – Team Captain(s)
• Ensuring safe Junior/Youth Matches – Junior/Youth Coach(es)
• Ensuring safe Junior/Youth Training and Practice – All Coaches present
• Ensuring safe Nets Practice – All Coaches present; Team Captains for Senior Players
• Ensuring safe Plant & Equipment (including Ground machinery, Covers, Sight-screens, Scorebox, Scoreboard) – Groundsmen/Facilities Manager
• Ensuring safe Changing Rooms – Coach(es) for Youth/Juniors; Captains for Seniors
• Ensuring safe handling and use of substances – Groundsmen/Facilities Manager outdoors; Administrative Officer/Club Chair/Bar Manager indoors
• Providing information, instruction and supervision – Administrative Officer/Club Chair/Bar Manager coordinating the employment of staff; Coaches at Junior/Youth training and matches; Team Captains for Senior Teams
• Accidents, first aid and activity related ill health – Administrative Officer/Safeguarding Officer
• Emergency procedures (fire and evacuation) – Administrative Officer
• First aid trained staff/coaches are responsible for maintaining first aid supplies for their own group/area

Risk Assessment Procedure

 To ensure the Club are meeting the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, RCC must undertake appropriate risk assessments. These secure provisions for health, safety and welfare for all club members, coaches, volunteers, staff, participants, spectators including away team staff, visitors and players, and all others involved in cricket.

RCC will carry out regular risk assessments and put in place, so far as is reasonably practicable, appropriate preventative actions for each risk identified in order to protect health, safety and welfare.

• The General Secretary will carry out general H&S Risk Assessments (RA) for all club venues at the start of the season; the RAs will be provided to the Management Committee who will act on any areas of concern; any remedial actions will be arranged by the Administrative Officer who will notify the Club Chair and Management Committee when complete; the updated RAs will be circulated with the coaches at the start of the season
• The Club Chair/Administrative Officer will carry out RA for the safe use of catering/bar equipment and substances; the RAs will be provided to the Management Committee who will act on any areas of concern; any remedial actions will be arranged by the Administrative Officer who will notify the Club Chair and Management Committee when complete
• The Facilities Manager/Groundsman will carry our RA for safe use of all plant and equipment and substances; the RAs will be provided to the Management Committee who will act on any areas of concern; any remedial actions will be arranged by the Administrative Officer who will notify the Club Chair and Management Committee when complete
• Coaches will carry out risk assessments for all training, matches and events that they organise or manage

Club Safety Procedures

Dealing with an accident:

• DO NOT MOVE ANYONE WITH MAJOR INJURIES OR WHO APPEARS DAZED/UNCONSCIOUS
• Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation, check whether there is a danger of further injuries; listen to what the injured person is saying
• Get help from other coaches/adult assistants/club staff or officials
• If the incident involves children, ensure the rest of the group are safe and that they are adequately supervised; inform the child’s parents if they are present, or nominate an appropriate person to telephone them and advise them of the incident
• Alert the First Aider on site at the time who should take appropriate action for minor injuries
• In the event of an injury requiring emergency/specialist treatment, nominate someone to call the emergency services
• Do not move someone with major injuries. Wait for the emergency services.
• Complete an Accident Report for ALL accidents/incidents/injuries, however minor, in line with the RCC Accident and Injury Reporting Policy once all other action is complete. Forward the report to the Club Administrative Officer/Club Safeguarding Officer.
• For under-18s, ensure that parents/guardians are made aware of the accident if they were not present
• Make a follow up call or visit the next day with the injured party or their parents
• If there is need to evacuate the premises on a training night or match day, members should be directed to the Assembly Point – Main Car Park, School Road, where coaches/captains/group leaders should take a register and/or assess whether everyone is present

First Aid:

• There is a large permanent full First Aid Kit at each RCC home ground and training venue that should always be replaced after use
• The Club Chair is responsible for the provision of an appropriate first aid facility and supplies available at the Rowledge Recreation Ground; the Club Administrative Officer is responsible for ensuring that all other home match and training venues have a first aid facility and supplies available (Frensham Heights School, Binsted Cricket Ground, Weydon School)
• The RCC pavilion kit will be periodically checked and restocked by the Club Administrative Officer – please advise any refills required in between checks
• All coaches have an emergency first aid kit including ice packs in their kit bags that they will carry for all training sessions, matches and events they attend. The contents are listed at appendix one
• Coaches are responsible for ensuring that their emergency first aid kits are fully stocked at the start of each season and replenishing anything used by contacting the Administrative Officer for supplies
• All coaches should hold a current First Aid Certificate (which includes emergency aid)
• The Club Chair is responsible for ensuring there are adequate first aid trained personnel or ‘appointed persons’ (person responsible for calling the emergency services if needed) on site on training nights; Coaches are responsible for ensuring that there are adequate first aid trained personnel at matches (home and away)
• The Club Administrative Officer is responsible for,
  • monitoring first aid certificate expiry dates;
  • maintaining an up to date list of coaches holding a current first aid certificate;
  • ensuring that first aid qualified coaches are aware of their responsibilities;
  • ensuring that coaches are aware of the requirement and process of completing an Accident Report following ALL accidents/injuries;
• The RCC Administrative Officer and Club Safeguarding Officer must log and file all Accident Reports, including reporting within Play Cricket for the purposes of the ECB Injury Surveillance project
• All Accident Reports will be reviewed at the next scheduled Club Management Committee Meeting or sooner if required.
• The Administrative Officer will display a list of all first aid trained Coaches on the pavilion notice board

Defibrillator:

Defibrillators are an essential piece of medical kit for health and safety in sport; they are an important part of the chain of survival, along with calling the emergency services and starting CPR. Performing CPR and using a defibrillator can double a person’s chance of survival if they have suffered from a cardiac arrest. A number of young people currently suffer from undiagnosed heart problems and the right plan, and equipment, can help save lives.

There are two public defibrillators installed in Rowledge,

1. The nearest to Rowledge Cricket Ground is outside the Co-op Store in The Square, on the wall facing the tennis courts.
2. The second is outside the Methodist Church in Chapel Road.

Concussion and Head Injuries:

• Concussion may be more prevalent in contact sports, but awareness of the consequences of concussion, and how to treat head injuries, is vital for all sport
• The Sport and Recreation Alliance pocket guide 2017 and ECB factsheets on concussion for parents and coaches are available in the Accident and Injury section of the RCC website.
• To identify concussion, you need to be aware of the symptoms including:
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Unsteadiness on feet
  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Blurred vision

Nearest Hospital:

• For serious injuries – the nearest A&E department is Frimley Park Hospital, GU16 7UJ
• For minor injuries – Haslemere Minor Injuries Unit, Church Lane, Haslemere GU27 2BJ – open from 8am to 5pm Monday – Sunday. Please note: MIU service is not for life threatening injuries, if you require urgent medical attention or assistance, call 999.
• The local doctor’s surgery is at 42 Boundstone Road, GU10 4TG – phone 01252 793183
• The NHS telephone advice service (non-emergency) can be contacted on 111

Fire and Evacuation Precautions:

The instructions on fire precautions should be followed by all members and officials

Fire in the Pavilion:

• In the event of discovering a fire in the pavilion or adjoining buildings or in the event of hearing the alarm call, raise the alarm by shouting “FIRE”
• Evacuate all those in immediate danger via the nearest exit and direct them to the Assembly Point – Main Car Park, School Road
• Close doors and windows as leaving – if safe to do so – to enclose the fire
• Do Not put yourself in immediate danger or take personal risk
• Do Not stop to collect personal belongings
• Do Not re-enter the building until told it is safe to do so by the Fire Services
• Report to the person in charge (club officer or coach) at the Assembly Point
• The person in charge will take a register if appropriate or otherwise assess to ensure that everybody has safely evacuated the building
• A senior coach/member or club officer should phone the Fire Services on a mobile phone from a position of safety away from the fire or at the Assembly Point
• Ensure that the Fire Services can access the ground

Fire in the grounds or surrounding trees and hedges:

• Raise the alarm by shouting “FIRE”
• Evacuate those in immediate danger to a position away from the fire but near an exit from the grounds
• Fully evacuate the area if required to the Main Car Park if safe to do so, or to another safe area if not
• Do Not put yourself in immediate danger or take personal risk
• Do Not stop to collect personal belongings
• A senior coach/member or club officer should phone the Fire Services on a mobile phone from a position of safety away from the fire
• Ensure that the fire services can access the ground

Safeguarding of Children and Adults at Risk:

RCC is committed to making cricket a safe, positive and enjoyable experience for all players. This includes all participants and spectators but particularly for young people and vulnerable adults.

Everyone who is involved in cricket has a shared responsibility to support this by promoting the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk. Individually and collectively, we are signed up to the ECB Safe Hands Policy. RCC endorses and implements the recommendations of the ECB Safe Hands Policy and is committed to delivering the ECB Safeguarding Standards.

Our Club Safeguarding Officer is Bethan Eyres who can be contacted on 07870 230111 or email bethan_eyres@hotmail.com. You can also contact our County Safeguarding Lead Heidi Langrish on 07773394218 or email cso@surreycricket.com.

Coaches:

The RCC Administrative Officer will ensure that all volunteer coaches have,

• Relevant coaching qualifications for the player, environment and role
• Current Disclosure & Barring System (DBS) vetting checks – cricket specific
• Current Safeguarding & Protecting Children certificates
• Active member of the ECBCA or appropriate insurances
• Current First Aid Certificates (which includes emergency aid)

Coaches have responsibility for the supervision and conduct of the young people in their care throughout each session of activities they are delivering. Coaches must do their best to ensure the health and safety of everyone taking part in cricket activities.

Net Coaching:

RCC coaches should,

• Check and ensure that the area and equipment is safe for the type of activity which is to take place
• Check that no damage or danger to property or persons is reasonably likely to occur
• Ensure good net discipline and monitor participants continually during the session
• Discourage the deliberate and frequent bowling of fast short-pitched
• Follow the RCC Net Safety Guidelines.

Outfield Practice:

When players practice on the outfield they should do so in positions which minimise the risk of injury to fellow cricketers and spectators and damage to property.

Outdoor Play:

Umpires are the sole judges of whether pitches are playable and conditions are fit for play. If no certificated or appointed umpires are present, the captains will make this decision. Law 42.8 concerning fast intimidating bowling should be strictly enforced.

ECB Guidelines for Young Cricketers:

RCC adopts the recommendations made in the following ECB guidelines:

• ECB Fast Bowling Directives
• ECB Fielding Directives
• ECB Safety Guidance on the Wearing of Helmets by Young Players
• ECB Junior Crickets Playing in Adult Matches
• ECB Girls Playing in Boys Age Group Cricket

Ensure staff are properly trained:

The Club Administrative Officer/Club Chair/Bar Manager/Section Managers (as appropriate) will ensure that staff/coaches are responsible and competent by,

• ensuring coaches complete their qualification and first aid training and maintain their accreditations on the ECB Safehands System
• providing onsite training (to ensure all coaches/staff have been trained to use equipment properly and to perform their duties safely)
• providing general health and safety training, such as manual handling and fire safety

Provide a safe place of work:

RCC will ensure that premises are up to standard including,

• fire safety
• cleanliness
• waste management
• handling of harmful substances

Provide proper facilities:

RCC will maintain proper facilities including,

• clean and adequate toilets
• clean drinking water
• heating/air conditioning as is relevant
• kitchen facility appliances will be checked and maintained accordingly

Members must keep these areas clean and tidy in order to satisfy their agreement to taking responsibility for their own health and safety

Provide safe equipment:

RCC will ensure that equipment is properly maintained to ensure it is safe to use by,

• periodic safety checks carried out by the Facilities Manager
• reporting faults to the management committee and ensuring that they are repaired

Appendix one: RCC First Aid Kit for Coaches Content List

• Grab Bag x 1
• Guidance Leaflet x 1
• Waterproof Plasters (10) x 1
• Big Plaster 7.5cm x 10cm x 4
• Blunt/Blunt Scissors x 1
• 4sport Foil Heat Blanket x 1
• Yellow Self Seal Disposable Bag x 1
• Cleansing Wipe (Alcohol Free) x 6
• Double sided low adherent dressing 10 cmx 10cm x 1
• Non- Woven Swabs 10 x 10cm (5) x 1
• Crepe Bandage 7.5cm x 4.5m x 1
• Instant Cold Pack x 2
• Sterile Dressing 12 x 12cm x 2
• Nitrile Gloves Medium/Large (pair) x 2
• Petroleum Jelly BP 200g x 1
• 4sport Finger Tape 2.5cm x 4.5m x 1
• 4sport Zinc Oxide Tape 1.25cm x 13.7m x 1
• Eye pad dressing x 2

RCC March 2023

These guidelines identify RCC’s controls on the use of live streaming during matches.  The guidelines form part of general safeguarding good practice in the Club.  They are also in line with the ECB and Surrey guidelines.

Use of Live Streaming at Rowledge Cricket Club:

RCC will from time to time live stream activities that take place on the Rowledge Recreation Ground for the public to spectate. The stream will be broadcast publicly online.  When live streaming activities RCC will ensure that:

• all members/coaches/players/parents/spectators and any other participants are aware live streaming is taking place
• images are not recorded
• footage is shown without sound (which reduces potential identification of individuals)
• any cameras provide wide-angle, general views of the ground
• there are arrangements in place to respond to any concerns about anyone watching the stream whose behaviour gives cause for concern
• all Club players and opposition Clubs will be made aware of the Club’s intention to live stream at the start of the season
• the Club will display a clear and prominent ‘Live Streaming’ notice on the scorer’s table and on notice boards in the pavilion
• the Club will notify the opposition, umpires and scorers of the intention to stream and will obtain their permission beforehand. If there are any objections, streaming will not take place
• the Club will follow child protection and safeguarding protocols if junior players (under 18s) or adults at risk in cricket are on the field when filming takes place. The parents/guardians and children must provide consent for the use of video/live streaming and this is granted via the annual registration system. If any player’s parent has indicated that they are not to be photographed or filmed the Club will consider the reasons given and where there is risk of harm to the player, streaming will not be allowed
• images and, potentially, audio recordings of individuals are personal data. The Club will comply with data protection law (including the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK GDPR) when live streaming

For any concerns, please immediately contact any of the following:

• Club Chairman: Carl Baker; 07768 325701; carl@carlbaker.co.uk
• Club Safeguarding Officers: Bethan Eyres; 07870 230111; bethan_eyres@hotmail.com, Peter Brinsden; 07831 500036; pbrinsden@hotmail.com
• ECB Safeguarding Officers:  020 7432 1200 and asking for a member of the safeguarding team or by emailing safeguarding@ecb.co.uk.

Notices:

The camera will be situated by the sight screens on the Recreation Road side of the ground. The camera has a microphone, but sound is not broadcast.

RCC January 2023

LIVE STREAMING NOTICE 

Please be aware that this match is being live streamed by Rowledge Cricket Club and it may be shown or published on websites and social media.

You can see our privacy notice on the RCC website.

Please do not stream or post images of other people’s children online or tag them in any posts you upload on social media without the permission of the parent/guardian.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact

Carl Baker on 07768 325701

The camera is situated by the site screens. Please do not touch or try to move any of the filming equipment or adjust any settings. Please be advised that the camera has a microphone but sound will not be broadcast.

Thank you for your cooperation and support, and we hope that you enjoy watching today’s match!

Background

In any given season, as many as 50 per cent of matches can be played away from the Club and that’s without tours and festivals or similar events. For RCC to be able to demonstrate its duty of care to the children in its team(s) the following is the RCC guidance for managing these types of events.

Section A covers children being taken away from the club’s normal base location and/or home ground for matches and events not involving an overnight stay.

Section B covers additional guidance particular to trips that include an overnight stay(s).

This guidance also applies to open age group teams where one or more players are under the age of 18.

SECTION A – children being taken away from the club’s normal base location and/or home ground for matches and events not involving an overnight stay.

A Team Manager will be appointed with clear roles and responsibilities including:

Establishing and 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

The team manager will be in possession of a written copy of relevant emergency contact details and any medical information for all children taking part

The team manager must ensure that players are safe throughout the tour

The team manager will determine appropriate staffing and staff training arrangements

 – Wherever possible, RCC will appoint a Head Coach and Team (tour) Manager, with the Head Coach and coaches taking responsibility for training and competition management of the team and the Tour Manager (and any other staff) taking responsibility for any other necessary support roles, such as Chaperones and pastoral care

– All members of staff need to have a clear knowledge of their role and responsibility for the team

– All staff must go through an induction programme ensuring they understand the ECB “Safe Hands Policy”

– All members of staff need to have a clear knowledge of their role and responsibilities – Staff must be aware that they have a common law duty of care to act as a prudent parent would

– Ensure there is a ‘Club Home Contact’ who is a member of the club who is not travelling away, who will act as a contact point in an emergency. Ensure the Club Home Contact is provided with the following information to enable them to fulfil their role should they need to:

• • Names of players and staff on the trip
  • Emergency contact names and phone numbers for each of the players and staff
  • Details of any medical or physical needs these persons may have
  • Contact numbers for staff which can be used while the staff are on the trip
  • Telephone numbers for the local police to the home club

The Club Home Contact should be a member of the club who has been appropriately vetted.

SECTION B – trips that include an overnight stay(s).

Listed below is additional information to that required in Section A that the RCC appointed Team Manager needs to act upon.

1 – Detailed trip planning must take place including the need to:

• Identify suitable venues and facilities for both the cricket and accommodation
• If possible, ensure a visit to the tour facilities and venues is made before the trip, to enable an effective risk assessment to take place. (If this is not possible, a risk assessment should be sought from the tour operator or facilities management in advance of the trip)
• Conduct a risk assessment
• Sufficient planning is key to incident prevention. Conducting a risk assessment is an essential part of planning any trip
• Children must not be placed in situations which expose them to an unacceptable level of risk
• Analyse insurance cover required, RCC Team managers are advised to check their insurance policies for clarification of cover for events away from the home club especially in relation to the supervision of children and involving overnight stays.
• When planning a trip it is important to allow sufficient time for all requirements to be completed.

2 – Staff at the chosen accommodation must be contacted in advance to:

• Ensure all accommodation is clean and has access to sufficient toilet and bathing facilities
• Confirm that

– Players will not share a bed

– Male and female players will not share a room

– Male and female staff will not share a room

– Staff do not share a room with players

– Players of vastly differing ages do not share a room

– Players 18+ do not share rooms with under 18s

– Staff and players do not share bathrooms

– Signage is placed on doors so that players know where staff are and how to contact them if necessary

• Establish if rooms are equipped with satellite TV, and whether inappropriate programmes may be available. (It may be possible to arrange for these programmes to be disconnected)
• Check the accommodation policy for extras on bills, breakages and lost keys
• Ensure the needs of players with disabilities are met. For wheelchair users, it is important to check access to the buildings, bedrooms and bathroom facilities
• Check where the staff accommodation will be and ensure players know which rooms staff are in and how to contact them if necessary
• Where possible, ensure rooms are not scattered around the hotel on different floors but grouped together
• Discuss the club’s code of conduct and discipline policy
• Ensure all dietary requirements are catered for

3 – A meeting is arranged with the parents and players to provide details of the trip. The following additional information must be communicated to parents in writing:

• An itinerary giving as much detail as possible
• The duration of the trip
• Details of accommodation with address and contact number
• Names of all cricket staff
• Codes of conduct for staff and players
• Emergency procedures and telephone contacts
• Child safeguarding procedures
• Details of insurance
• Date for paying deposit
• Details of transport
• Kit list

4 – The following written and signed information from parents/guardians/carers must be obtained

• Signed consent form accepting the code of conduct and detailing:

– Any specific medical information such as medical conditions, allergies and current medication

– Any physical/sensory needs

– Any cultural/religious needs

– Special dietary requirements

– Consent for emergency medical treatment

– Agreement to pay the fee

– At least one emergency contact

– Confirmation that contact details have not changed

– Any other information that the parent feels is relevant e.g. history of being bullied, shy etc

5 – Preparing players for touring 

• The Tour Manager and coaches should meet with players prior to the trip to agree:

– Expectation of the players

– Clothing list

– Codes of conduct/behaviour – this should be signed by all young players with their parents’ permission

– Their responsibility for their own property

– Staff roles and responsibilities

– Emergency procedures

– Support if they become homesick, are unhappy, or need to speak to someone in confidence

6 – The Club Home Contact must be provided with the following additional information to that specified in Section A above:

• Contact numbers for the accommodation
• Telephone numbers for the nearest police to the accommodation

7 – The following guidance and protocols are followed as needed during the tour:

 Concerning the general safeguarding of players: 

• The Team Manager must ensure players are safe throughout the tour
• Players must know the whereabouts of staff at all times, including which rooms staff are in and how to contact them if required
• Staff must know they have a common law duty of care to act as a prudent parent would

Concerning the medical welfare of players:

• Medical details and relevant information must be carried by a member of staff
• Staff must be aware of any specific medical conditions that may occur i.e. epilepsy, asthma, diabetes
• Staff should have access to calling the emergency services and the minimum first aid provision
• A first aid kit should be carried
• Staff must act in an emergency and take lifesaving action in extreme situations

 8 – If an emergency occurs the Team Manager must: 

• In advance the Team manger should have addresses for the nearest hospital, A&E, pharmacy, walk-in centre and dentist and check that they have capability to contact the emergency services if need be
• Establish the nature of the emergency and names of any casualties
• Ensure the rest of the team are safe and supervised
• Ensure all members of the party are aware of the situation and follow emergency procedures
• Ensure a member of staff accompanies any casualties to hospital
• Notify the police if necessary
• Complete an ECB incident reporting form
• Ensure no one in the group speaks to the media. All media enquiries should be managed through the ECB Marketing and Communications Department at Lord’s
• Contact the Club Home Contact, who will:
  • Contact parents and keep them informed
  • Liaise with club staff, and if necessary, the ECB
  • Liaise with the media contact if applicable
  • Report the incident to insurers

9 –  Good Practice for Overnight Trips

• Ideally, accommodation should have a communal area for players to socialize and a staff room for staff to take breaks, have meetings and confidential conversations.
• Staff must ‘knock and wait’ for the door to be opened to player’s bedrooms. Do not go in unannounced and avoid going into bedrooms alone. If alone it is best to stand in the doorway with the door open, rather than going inside the room and closing the door behind you. If a player starts to get changed while you are in the room, ask them to wait or leave the room.
• It is never appropriate for a player to enter a staff member’s bedroom, even just to collect something.
• If you need to speak to a player confidentially, avoid using player bedrooms. Try to conduct the conversation in a neutral location such as outside, in a meeting room or a quiet spot in a communal area such as a hotel reception.

RCC January 2023

RCC has implemented the ECB Missing Children Guidelines as part of the Club’s Safeguarding strategy.

 If a child, for whom RCC has responsibility, goes missing, the following guidelines have been devised to clarify the actions to take:

1. RCC will ensure other children in our care are looked after appropriately while RCC organise a search for the child concerned.
2. RCC will 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
3. RCC are doing all you can to locate their child. Remember the child may contact the parents directly so this action is very important.
4. RCC will 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.
5. RCC will 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.
6. RCC will search the area in which the child has gone missing including changing rooms, toilets, public and private areas and the Club’s grounds.
7. RCC will request all those searching to report back to a nominated adult at a specific point.
8. 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.
9. The nominated person as above will report the missing child to the police no later than 20 minutes after the child’s disappearance is noted, even if the search is not complete.
10. If the police recommend further action before they get involved, follow their guidance.
11. If the police act upon the concern, always be guided by them in any further actions to take.
12. At any stage when the child is located, RCC will 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 Safeguarding Officer, who must immediately notify the County Safeguarding Officer, and they must then notify the ECB Safeguarding Team.

Child Safeguarding Officer: Bethan Eyres; 07870 230111; bethan_eyres@hotmail.com

RCC January 2023

Online safety and social media policy

RCC coaches conform to the ECB Safe Hands Policy.

Contacting under 18 year old players by personal text or through social media is strictly forbidden. Staff, coaches & volunteers MUST NOT direct private message anyone under 18 years old via email, text, Snapchat, Instagram WhatsApp or any other social media platforms.

For under 16 year olds, all messages should be directed to the parents/guardians.

For 16-17 year olds club messages may be sent to the young person only with the express consent of their parent/guardian and with the parent/guardian copied. This includes messages from Pitchero and open forums such as WhatsApp with appropriate language and content. All contact with 16-17 year olds should be in relation to coaching, matches and cricket-related activity. Any inappropriate responses from 16-17 year olds should be brought to the attention of the parent or carer.

Main Contacts:

Website and Social Media lead: Haidee Goodwin;  goodwinhaidee@gmail.com

Child Safeguarding Officer: Bethan Eyres; 07870 230111; bethan_eyres@hotmail.com

Our online safety statement 

This policy provides guidance on how RCC uses the internet and social media, and the procedures for doing so. It also outlines how we expect the staff who work for us, and the children who are members of our RCC, to behave online.

As a Club, we commit to implementing this policy and addressing any concerns quickly and within these guidelines.

Aims 

The aims of our online safety policy are:

• to protect all children involved with RCC and who make use of technology (such as  mobiles phones, games consoles and the internet) while in our care
• to provide staff with policy and procedure information regarding online safety and inform them how  to respond to incidents
• to ensure RCC is operating in line with our values and within the law regarding how we  behave online

 Understanding the online world 

As part of using the internet and social media, RCC will:

• assess and manage the safety aspects – including what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour  for staff and children when using websites, social media including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram,  Twitter or Snapchat, apps and video conferencing platforms including Zoom or Skype
• be aware of how staff in RCC and the children they work with use social media both inside  and outside of our setting
• ensure that we adhere to relevant legislation and good practice guidelines when using social media  or video conferencing platforms
• provide training for the staff responsible for managing RCC’s online presence
• regularly review existing safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure that online safeguarding  issues are fully integrated, including:
• making sure concerns of abuse or disclosures that take place online are written into our  reporting procedures
• incorporating online bullying (‘cyberbullying’) in our anti-bullying policy

Managing our online presence 

Our online presence through our website or social media platforms will adhere to the following guidelines:

• all social media accounts will be password-protected, and at least two members of staff will have access  to each account and password
• the account will be monitored by at least two designated members of staff in order to provide  transparency, who will have been appointed by the organisations committee
• the designated staff managing our online presence will seek advice from our designated  safeguarding lead to advise on safeguarding requirements
• designated staff will remove inappropriate posts by children or staff, explaining why, and informing  anyone who may be affected (as well as the parents of any children involved)
• we’ll make sure children are aware of who manages our social media accounts and who to contact if  they have any concerns about something that’s happened online
• our account, page and event settings will be set to ‘private’ so that only invited members can see their  content
• identifying details such as a child’s home address, school name or telephone number shouldn’t be  posted on social media platforms
• any posts or correspondence will be consistent with our aims and tone as an organisation
• parents will be asked to give their approval for us to communicate with their children through social  media, via video conferencing platforms or by any other means of communication
• parents will need to give permission for photographs or videos of their child to be posted on social  media
• video conferencing sessions will be password protected in order to maintain children’s privacy and  prevent exposure to inappropriate or harmful content by third parties

What we expect of our staff 

• staff should be aware of this policy and behave in accordance with it
• staff should seek the advice of the designated safeguarding lead if they have any concerns about the  use of the internet or social media
• staff should communicate any messages they wish to send out to children to the designated staff  responsible for the organisation’s online presence
• staff should not communicate with children via personal accounts
• staff should not ‘friend’ or ‘follow’ children from personal accounts on social media and maintain the  same professional boundaries online as they would in person when using organisation accounts
• staff should make sure any content posted on public personal accounts is accurate and appropriate,  as children may ‘follow’ them on social media
• rather than communicating with parents through personal social media accounts, staff should choose  a more formal means of communication, such as face-to-face, in an email or in writing, or use an  organisational account or website
• staff should avoid communicating with children via email or organisational social media outside of  normal office hours
• emails or messages should maintain the organisations tone and be written in a professional manner,  e.g. in the same way you would communicate with fellow professionals, avoiding kisses (X’s) or using  slang or inappropriate language
• staff should not delete any messages or communications sent to or from organisation accounts
• staff should undertake all online safety training offered and gain a basic knowledge of the platforms  children use and how to report or remove inappropriate content online
• any concerns reported through social media should be dealt with in the same way as a face-to-face  disclosure, according to our reporting procedures
• at least one parent must be present during the delivery of any activities via video conferencing  platforms at home
• any delivery of activities to children via video conferencing platforms will be supported by an additional  member of staff (even if they’re not actively delivering) to ensure transparency
• staff and children must not engage in ‘sexting’ or send pictures to anyone that are obscene

What we expect of children 

• children should be aware of this online safety policy and agree to its terms
• we expect children’s behaviour online to be consistent with the guidelines set out in our acceptable  use statement
• children should follow the guidelines set out in our acceptable use statement on all digital devices,  including smart phones, tablets and consoles

What we expect of parents 

• parents should be aware of this online safety policy and agree to its terms
• parents should protect all children’s privacy online and think carefully about what content they share about our sport online, where they share it and who they’re sharing it with
• we expect parents’ behaviour online to be consistent with the guidelines set out in our acceptable use  statement and in our codes of conduct for parents and spectators

Using mobile phones during sports activities 

So that all children can enjoy and actively take part in sports activities, we discourage the use of mobile  phones during such activities. As part of this policy we will:

• make children aware of how and who to contact if there is an emergency or a change to previously  agreed arrangements with the organisation
• inform parents of appropriate times they can contact children who are away at camps or away trips  and discourage them from attempting contact outside of these times
• advise parents that it may not be possible to contact children during activities and provide a contact  within the club or organisation who will be reachable should there be an emergency
• explain to children how using mobile phones during activities has an impact on their safe awareness  of their environment, and their level of participation and achievement

Online Safety Guidelines

Social networking is continuing to grow and these guidelines are designed to provide helpful, practical advice for all RCC players, coaches, members, officers, staff, volunteers and supporters on the effective use of social media.

Social media includes but is not limited to facebook, twitter, texting, snapchat, tiktok, whatsapp,  online gaming, linked-in, instagram, emails and many more platforms. By following these simple guidelines the risks of inappropriate use can be reduced and social media can be safely used as a promotional tool and a means of communication for RCC.

If you suspect that someone is using social media in an unsafe or inappropriate manner, you should report their behaviour to your Club Safeguarding Officer, the County Safeguarding Officer, or the ECB Safeguarding team – email safeguarding@ecb.co.uk

If you believe that an offence has been committed, or that someone’s use of social media is placing a child is at risk of harm, inform the police immediately.

Child Safeguarding Officers: Bethan Eyres; 07870 230111; bethan_eyres@hotmail.com, Peter Brinsden; 07831 500036.

General issues: such as bringing RCC, RCC members or cricket into disrepute Carl Baker; 07768 325701.

Any report of the misuse of social media within the context of cricket will be investigated according to RCC’s policy and procedures and may result in the Club’s sanctions being enforced. Depending upon the seriousness of the incident legal action may be taken and where suspected criminal activity has taken place a report will be made to the police.

Club Officials / Coaches / Managers

• To have separate cricket-club related and personal pages; all contact with players should be through the former, and strictly in relation to training, coaching, matches and cricket related activity. You should also adjust the privacy settings for your personal account so that content is only visible to accepted ‘friends’. This will keep younger players safe from material that may be unsuitable for them, and will reduce the risk of your online interactions being viewed with suspicion.
• Not to accept ‘friend’ requests from junior players but to direct them to the cricket- club related page and keep all contact professional.
• To be mindful of any content posted online via the cricket-club related page – remember: You are representing the club Your communications should conform to ‘Safe Hands’ policy and guidance
• Ensure that nothing posted could cause personal distress or be seen as inappropriate for children. If you wouldn’t put it on the club notice board, it doesn’t belong on the club’s social media pages
• Obtain consent before posting any personal information online – this includes photographs where an individual can be identified. Remember the picture/no name guidance for under 18s

Coaches / Managers / Clubs DO

• Have separate social media accounts for cricket-club related and personal use.
• Keep your photos and personal information private.
• Apply the Codes of Conduct and appropriate professionalism to your behaviour online, by text and email.
• Obtain consent before posting any personal information online – this includes photographs where an individual can be identified.
• Remember the picture/no name guidance for under 18s Coaches / Managers / Clubs

Coaches / Managers / Clubs DO NOT

• Send text messages to juniors – make arrangements via their parents.
• Send private messages to children and young people via apps or social media.
• Invite or accept children and young people to become “friends”.
• Send inappropriate text messages or post messages on social media that are offensive, nasty or derogatory in any way.

In addition to the above RCC officers and appointed volunteers will

• Take responsibility for their professional reputation in the social media environment, making sure they follow e-safety advice, adhere to privacy and safety settings and report any concerns in accordance with RCC’s and ECB’s policies and procedures.
• Not ask for email addresses, mobile phone numbers or social networking profiles of junior members (less than 18 years of age) or search for junior members on social networking services/search engines without the prior consent of the junior’s parents/guardians and in line with the Club’s policy on the use of information including in emergency situations.
• Not develop an online relationship with a young player with the intention of meeting them offline to engage in sexual activity. Sexual exploitation, including grooming a child under the age of 16 for the purpose of meeting to engage in sexual activity, is a serious criminal offence and will be reported as such.
• Not view, possess, make or distribute sexual abuse/indecent images of children. This is a serious criminal offence and will be reported as such.

Adult players in Open Age teams

• Be mindful of who may have access to material you share via social media, including Facebook, twitter and other platforms.

Texts, apps and emails: contacting Under 18 players

• The Children Act defines a person under 18 years as a child
• DO make arrangements for under 18s via their parents or carers; this includes text and email or Whats App messages etc. It is understood that in the case of over 16’s this may not be ideal for yourself or the parents. An acceptable exception to this rule is to text or email the parent and to copy in the 16 or 17 year old, with the parent’s prior consent. This means the parent is able to monitor communications, but the 16 or 17 year old receives the information directly. If you receive any responses that appear inappropriate they should be brought to the attention of the parent or carer.
• DO NOT engage in individual text or email conversations with a 16 or 17 year old without their parent receiving the same messages from you.
• All contact with children should be in relation to coaching, matches and cricket-related activity

Parents / Carers DO

• Make sure you are aware of who your child has contact with online and via text
• Be aware of The ECB and the club’s expectations for coaches and social media
• Talk to your children about using social media.
• Provide your mobile number / email address if requested, so the club can contact you

Report any content you think may be improper or unlawful to the Internet Watch Foundation

Children and Young People

• If someone isn’t your friend in real life, they aren’t your friend on the internet.
• Be careful when accepting friend requests. Sometimes people on the internet aren’t who they say they are. If you’re not 100% sure, don’t risk it.
• Remember to change your privacy settings so that only your friends can see information about you, your wall posts and your photos.
• If someone is sending you messages or texts that you are worried about, tell your parents, an adult you trust, your teacher or your club’s Safeguarding officer.
• Remember that your coach is a professional, just like your teachers. They should not be your friend on Facebook, and should not be texting or messaging you.
• You can expect them to make arrangements for coaching and matches via your parents.
• Bullying can happen online too, and it’s known as cyber-bullying. If you, or someone you know, has had this happen to them you should tell an adult that you can trust.
• Don’t be afraid to tell someone if you have concerns.
• Have a look at the Think You Know page on the internet for more information about staying safe online: http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk

Young people DO

• Keep your photos and personal information private
• Conduct yourself in a respectful and courteous manner on social media as you would at home, in school or at cricket.
• Tell a professional or an adult you trust if you are worried or concerned about online behaviour or unwanted contact/ communication.

 Young people DO NOT

• DO NOT send inappropriate text messages or post messages on social media that are offensive, nasty or derogatory in any way
• DO NOT accept any friend requests from people you don’t know or you feel uncomfortable accepting Putting things in place
• DO NOT send or forward any indecent images of yourself, someone you know, or anyone you don’t know, even if it seems to be done in fun – it is wrong and it is against the law

Report any indecent image or video footage to the Internet Watch Foundation – they can have these removed https://www.iwf.org.uk

All members and guests of RCC will:

• Take responsibility for their own use of social media, making sure they use new technologies safely, responsibly and legally within the context of cricket.
• Before they write anything remember that social media is public and anyone can take their comments, both positive and negative, and resend them, put them in a local or national paper, on a website or the TV. If they have any doubts about the suitability of what they are about to post onto a social media site then it should not be posted.
• Never use language that is bullying or harasses others, is defamatory, obscene or abusive. This includes swearing or the use foul language or swearing/foul language punctuated with symbols.
• Never upload material which is libellous or defamatory to RCC, its teams, members, followers or the wider cricketing community.
• Report any known misuses of communication and interactive technologies within the context of cricket, including unacceptable behaviour, inappropriate contact with children online and illegal content including sexual abuse/indecent images of children, according to RCC’s and ECB’s safeguarding policies and procedures.

Remember

• RCC’s competition may gain confidence if they read any comments made about poor form in training, poor form in previous matches, tiredness or belief that RCC are inferior to their teams.
• Be careful what you post immediately after a match whether you’ve won or lost. In the heat of the moment you might not post appropriate comments.
• It’s almost impossible to completely remove information from social networking sites even if you remove or delete it from the original site. There is no way of knowing if screenshots/munches have been taken or if it has been reposted. (With the growth of social media itself the terminology/jargon and apps for this type of screen save will also evolve).
• Never give out any personal information or encourage a user to do so.
• Correct any mistakes you make as quickly as possible.
• Never link to any unsuitable or illegal content.
• Don’t be offensive or controversial.
• Don’t upload or share images that are obscene, illegal, show nudity or are violent.

 RCC as an Internet Provider

Where RCC provides network access and/or communication devices to members and guests users will protect passwords and personal network logins and they will log off the network when leaving web stations/devices unattended. Where available, security settings should be set on mobile devices. Any attempts to access, corrupt or destroy other users’ data in any way using technology is unacceptable.

Further information for parents about keeping children safe online 

 NSPCC 

The NSPCC’s guidance for parents on online safety

nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety 

 Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP)  

Child Exploitation and Online Protection Demand’s website ceop.police.uk 

 The UK Safer Internet Centre 

Safer Internet Centre’s advice for parents and children saferinternet.org.uk 

 Important contacts 

Contacts for parents, children and staff in relation to this policy and online safety

Website and Social Media lead: Haidee Goodwin;  goodwinhaidee@gmail.com

Child Safeguarding Officer: Bethan Eyres; 07870 230111; bethan_eyres@hotmail.com

RCC January 2023

Rowledge Cricket Club (RCC) promotes the appropriate use of photography and filming of children participating in cricket and believes that parents should not be prevented from taking pictures of or filming their children whilst playing cricket or training.

However, it’s important to be aware of the potential child protection and safeguarding issues that arise when people take photos or film children in relation to sporting activities.

In addition, photographs are considered ‘personal data’ in terms of Data Protection. Depending on the circumstance, consent from either the child, adult, or both should be sought before capturing, sharing or publishing images where a child can be identified, including posting on the Club’s website etc. In addition, as with all personal data processed, it should be processed in accordance with GDPR principles, and other relevant legislation and guidance.

These guidelines identify RCC’s controls on the use of photographic equipment (cameras and videos, including mobile phones and other portable devices).

The guidelines form part of general safeguarding and data processing good practice in the Club.  They are in line with the ECB and Surrey guidelines.

The guidelines are applicable both at the Club’s home ground(s) and also at away venues. Opposition teams visiting the ground(s) will have their attention brought to these guidelines.

These guidelines apply to live broadcasts on social media or other platforms.

Implementation of these guidelines aims to reduce the risks of:

• Identification of children when a photograph is accompanied by significant personal information that will assist a third party to identify the child. This can lead/has led to children being “groomed”.
• Other direct and indirect risks to children and young people when photographs are shared on websites and in publications with personal information that may identify and locate the child.
• Identification and locating of children in inappropriate circumstances including:
  • where a child has been removed from his/her family for their own safety;
  • where restrictions on contact with one parent following a parental separation exist e.g. in domestic violence cases;
  • in situations where a child may be a witness in criminal proceedings;
  • other child protection concerns
• Inappropriate use, adaptation or copying of images for use on various websites on the internet
• Inappropriate photographs or recorded images of children

Parents are reminded, as detailed above, identification/tagging of a child and/or location on social media sites may put that child at risk.

RCC encourage the reporting of inappropriate use of images of children. If you are concerned, report your concerns to the County or Club Safeguarding Officer.

RCC’s policy is as follows:

• Photographs/images are not to be taken at matches or training without the prior permission of the parents/guardians of the children. This permission can be given by proxy by the coach of each team only after parental consent for this has been granted via the annual registration system. The coach must check this consent prior to attending matches. Children for whom photography/video permission has not been granted are to be identified on the session register.
• If no photographic or video consent has been given for a child then it is to be made known to the relevant photographer(s) of both Rowledge and of the other team (e.g. Coach / Team manager) so that the appropriate person/s taking photos is aware and can avoid taking photos of that particular child/children.
• The children should be informed beforehand photographs will be taken.
• The children should be informed that if they have concerns they can report these to the Coach or Team Manager.
• Concerns regarding inappropriate or intrusive photography should be reported to the Club Safeguarding Officers and recorded in the same manner as any other child protection concern. Reported concerns will be dealt with in the same way as any other child-protection issue. Concerns or suspicions about potentially criminal behaviour will be referred to the police.
• Under no circumstances will cameras or videos (including mobile phones and other portable devices that take photographs or video) be allowed in the Club’s showers or changing areas.

Guidelines relating to publishing of images:

Use of images of children (for example on the web, in the media or in league handbooks), including broadcast on social media platforms

• RCC will ask for parental permission to use their 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 cricket and the Club.
• RCC will ask for the child’s permission to use their image. This ensures that they are aware of the way the image will be used to represent cricket and the Club.
• If a cricketer/child is named, RCC will avoid using their photograph in publications, social media or on the website.
• If a photograph is used, RCC will avoid naming the child/children in publications, social media or on the website.
• RCC will 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.
• RCC won’t use player profiles with pictures and detailed personal information in publications, social media or on the website.
• RCC won’t use an image for something other than that what it was initially intended and agreed.
• Photographs will/should focus on the activity rather than the individual.
• RCC will take pictures which represent the broad range of youngsters participating safely in cricket e.g. boys and girls, disabled people, ethnic minority communities.

Guidelines relating to using video as a coaching aid:

Using video equipment is a legitimate coaching aid for RCC.   However, players and parents/guardians should be aware that this is part of the coaching programme.

• Material taken in connection with coaching will be stored safely and must only be shown to the relevant player.
• The Club will delete/erase the footage if so requested, if the player leaves the Club, or when the material is no longer needed.
• Only qualified coaches are permitted to use video analysis when coaching on behalf of RCC.
• The parents/guardians and children must provide consent for the use of photography and video analysis and this is granted via the annual registration system.

Guidelines relating to secure storage of images:

 Images or video recordings of children must be kept securely,

• Hard copies of images should be kept in a locked drawer
• Electronic images should be in a protected folder with restricted access
• Images should not be stored on unencrypted portable equipment such as laptops, memory sticks or mobile phones
• Coaches should delete all photos/recordings/images etc of children that they take on personal portable equipment such as mobile phones and tablets as soon as they have been used for the cricket coaching purpose/ training aid; images should NOT be stored on coaches mobile phones/ tablets.

 Points to consider:

• It is not an offence to take appropriate photographs in a public place even if asked not to do so.
• No one has the right to decide who can and cannot take images on public land.
• If you have have serious concerns about a possible child protection issue relating to the recording of images then call the police. This action should only be taken where you believe that someone may be acting unlawfully or putting a child at risk.
• On private land – The land or facility owner can decide whether or not photography and/or videoing at cricket activities will be permitted e.g. matches/training at Frensham Heights School. If photography or videoing is not allowed and RCC or Opposition Clubs do not comply then they may be requested to leave by the facility owner or landowner. However, this needs to be made known before allowing access to the private property.
• If RCC are commissioning professional photographers or inviting the press to cover a cricket activity, RCC will ensure there is clear guidance on the images to be taken, including information on:
  • What is considered appropriate in terms of content and behaviour.
  • RCC’s commitment to safeguarding children and young people and to aid this RCC will establish who will hold the recorded images and what they intend/are allowed to do with them.
  • Issue the professional photographer with identification, which must be worn at all times.
  • Inform participants and parents/carers prior to the event that a professional photographer will be in attendance and ensure we have established that no under 18’s will be compromised due to child protection concerns if their image is taken. RCC can do this by using the annual consent form at the start of the season.

RCC January 2023

Participating in or spectating outdoor summer sports can mean subjection to ‘prolonged sun exposure’ from UV ray which without protection, can harm skin even on a cloudy day. The effects of over-exposure to the sun on our skin are cumulative and build up over a person’s lifetime. These effects cannot be reversed. In addition UV radiation damage is largely responsible for ageing of the skin — wrinkles, freckles, and sun spots and a higher risk of skin cancer. With just one blistering sunburn doubling the risk of melanoma in later life, it is important that we are all vigilant, and that children learn and deploy good sun protection habit from an early age.

RCC supports the Outdoor Kids Sun Safety Code, devised by the Melanoma Fund. The campaign was developed by leading skin cancer specialists, alongside experts in physical education and safeguarding to ensure the information is up-to-date, accurate and relevant.

Here are their top 5 tips:

1. PREPARE: Ensure that everyone arrives ready for a day in the sun
2. PROTECT: Use clothing, hats/sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF30+) reapplied at breaks
3. SHADE: Avoid direct sunlight during lunch or whilst spectating others
4. HYDRATE: Ensure water is always available
5. LEAD BY EXAMPLE: Inspire children with your own actions

RCC recommends that coaches, parents, and others, consider using the resources available through the ‘OK Sun Safety Code’, which provides information, advice, resources and accreditation on Sun Safety for children.

Policy

It is RCC policy to make sure that coaches and others set an example and are seen to take steps to protect themselves, and that they encourage children to follow the sun safety code, use the five tips above and:

• Wear a hat
• Put on sun cream (factor 30 or above)
• Cover up
• Keep hydrated

https://www.melanoma-fund.co.uk/

https://resources.ecb.co.uk/ecb/document/2021/07/27/795e789e-76cc-46ce-98c7-57a41840f273/The_OK_Code_2021.pdf

How to be ‘Sun Safe’

 Parents are reminded sun protection is needed for players and participants in RCC events from the start of the season in April to the end of the season in September, especially between 10am & 4pm.  This also includes providing protection on cooler, cloudy days when the UK Met Office UV Index is 3 or more as you can still burn on these days.

Being Sun Safe:

Slip on protective clothing — tops with collars and sleeves are best. Cricket trousers or if at another non-cricketing event longer shorts and skirts are recommended. If wearing shorts or short sleeve tops while participating, playing or competing ensure good sunscreen coverage of any exposed skin.

Slop on sunscreen — this should be encouraged when players or participants are outside for extended periods. Sunscreen (at least SPF 30 broad spectrum) needs to be applied thickly 20 minutes before going outside. Parents, players and participants should ensure the sunscreen is reapplied every two hours. Zinc sticks may also be used on exposed areas in addition to sunscreen.  Storage of sunscreen — keep sunscreen in a cool place. If outside, keep it in the shade.  Sunscreen that has been left out in the sun or near other sources of heat will degrade and will not work as intended. Check the expiry date on the label and replace outdated sunscreen. For more information check the label on your sunscreen.

B-E-E-N-S is a simple way to remember to apply sunscreen to the easy to forget bits!

• • Back of knees
  • Ears
  • Eye area
  • Neck & nose
  • Scalp

Slap on a hat — wide-brimmed or bucket hats with a 6cm brim are recommended. A hat will also protect your eyes. Caps are not hats. They don’t protect the sides of the face, neck or ears, which are all common sites of skin cancer and require further protection with sunscreen.

Wrap on sunglasses — these may be worn at events or when waiting to bat etc. – a cap with 6 cm brim will also offer eye protection for those waiting or fielding.  Close-fitting, wrap-around sunglasses styles are best. Over exposure to UVR is associated with a number of eye conditions such as the development of cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eyeball called pterygium or pinguecula.

Shade — seek shade from trees, verandas, shade sails, gazebos, etc. take your breaks in the shade!

Advice on wellbeing in the sun:

Protection from the sun isn’t just about sunburn, there are a range of exposure conditions including heatstroke and heat exhaustion too.

The following should be considered:

1. HYDRATION – All players and participants at RCC matches and events must attend with full water bottles and should be encouraged to drink water. Where the match or event is at the Rowledge Recreation Ground or Binsted Playing Field, drinking water will be available in the pavilion at all times. Other Club’s pavilions will supply drinking water for matches or events.

2. EXTREME HEAT – 30 ^oC and above is too hot for very physical activities without risking heatstroke and severe dehydration and RCC planned activities will be modified or cancelled during periods of extreme heat.

Hot weather guidance:

General guidance for parents:

• Children should wear sun cream for matches and training.
• Players to wear broad brimmed hats and sunglasses in the field.
• Children should bring a water bottle to cricket and be encouraged to sip from it regularly rather than take large gulps infrequently.
• Do not over commit! Children should only play one match a day in normal circumstances but certainly during periods of hot weather, also think sensibly about Under 18s playing in matches on consecutive days.

Host clubs should:

• Ensure there is shade/shelter available for all players during the break and for the batting side during their innings.
• Fulfil their obligations around providing refreshments – a drink and snack during the innings break and provide squash or water for drinks breaks.

Guidance for Coaches, Umpires and Match Managers:

• Positively ensure that all players drink sufficient fluids before, during and after the match.
• Have organised drinks breaks halfway through each innings or every ten overs whichever is more frequent.
• Call additional impromptu drinks breaks if it is felt necessary.
• Wicket-keepers, batters, and fast bowlers are especially subject to heat stress due to the intense exercise and/or padding and helmets.  Umpires, Coaches and Managers should pay special attention to these players.  They should suggest players wearing helmets remove them between overs. Fast bowlers should bowl shorter spells than they normally would.
• Suggest players reapply sun cream between innings.
• If any signs of heat illness are detected those players must be immediately removed from play and cooled. If there is any doubt about a player’s recovery and ability to take any further part in the match, then the responsible adult with the team should err on the side of caution and not allow the player to return.

Additionally:

• If possible, consider rescheduling the time of matches or training away from the middle of the afternoon when the sun will be hottest.
• For league matches longer than 20 overs managers can agree to reduce the overs in very hot weather.
• When the air temperature is above 34 degrees Celsius the umpires may consider that the conditions are unsuitable for play and may call the game off. In this case the result should be recorded in the same way as if the match had been rained off. For the purposes of determining the air temperature, measurements should be taken in the shade at a height of 1.2m above the ground. Car temperature gauges are not reliable and should not be used for this purpose.

Heat Stress leading to Heatstroke:   A qualified first aider will be on site at all RCC organised matches and events.  However, all persons at matches and events should be aware players and participants suffering from heat stress can be affected in different ways and some people are more susceptible to heat stress than others. Typical symptoms are:

• an inability to concentrate;
• muscle cramps;
• heat rash;
• severe thirst – a late symptom of heat stress;
• fainting;
• heat exhaustion – irritability, fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin;
• heat stroke – hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage.

If you suspect a player or participant is suffering from heatstroke contact the first aider and to reduce body temperature the following steps should be taken immediately.

• Move the player or participant to a cool and shady location as soon as is possible
• Make sure they drink – preferably water but if water is not available other fluids
• Sponge the player/participant with cool, (not cold) water and, if available, place cold packs around the neck and in the armpits
• Place the player/participant near a fan or fan them with towels, clothing or similar

If the injured person does not respond to the measures recommended above within 30 minutes, place them in the recovery position and call 999 for emergency medical assistance.

NOTE – If a player/participant shows ANY signs of confusion or loses consciousness place them in the recovery position, call 999 for emergency medical assistance and follow the steps above.

RCC January 2023

It is important for RCC to remember when planning children’s cricket, or general, sessions, sufficient adults must be present to adequately supervise all participants and manage any incident that may arise.

It is a basic requirement of all sessions and matches involving children that a minimum of two responsible adults will be present in all circumstances.

RCC will always plan accordingly and coaches must feel confident in raising concerns if they find themselves placed in a position where they are expected to work alone and unsupervised. In matches there must always be at least two adults present and responsible for the team.

Ratios for working with children

The ECB provides two different sets of ratios for working with children. It is vital RCC coaches, and other RCC key club personnel, understand the distinction between these two types of ratios. They are each explained below:

 Qualified coach ratios required for coaching sessions

The ECB Community Coach Education department has produced appropriate ratios based on the number of qualified coaches required to run different technical disciplines within the game. The ratios of qualified coaches to children are as follows:

• Net Coaching: 1 coach : 8 children
• Hard Ball Coaching: 1 coach : 16 children
• Incrediball Coaching: 1 coach : 18 children
• Group Coaching: 1 coach : 24 children

These coaching ratios are very different to the child supervision ratios, which are required at all sessions regardless of where these are held or which activities the children are doing.

Supervision ratios

Supervision ratios relate to managing groups of children and ensuring sufficient adults are present to deal with any issue or incident that may arise. For single sex groups, there must be at least one same gender member of staff. For mixed groups there must be at least one male and one female supervising adult.

There must always be a minimum of two adults present

RCC must also factor in any further issues that the risk assessment of the facilities may have highlighted. For example, if the changing rooms are located several minutes walk from the training venue then RCC may have to increase the number of supervisors in light of this additional information.  The supervision ratios that must be adhered to as a minimum for RCC looking after groups of children are as follow:

• Aged 8 and under – 1 adult : 8 children
• Aged 9 and over – 1 adult : 10 children

It is also important for RCC to note that these ratios relate to adults and children i.e. those over 18 looking after those under 18.  Volunteers who are under 18 years of age must not be used in the calculations for supervision ratios.

 Children’s Welfare

 Drinks breaks

As part of our responsibilities in supervising children, it is vital all players drink appropriate amounts of water to avoid any possible risks of dehydration during matches and practice sessions. The tips below are provided from the ECB Coaches’ Safety Pack (Hard Copy).

Coaches, teachers, managers and umpires are encouraged to:

• Ensure regular intervals for drinks are arranged, particularly in matches of more than 20 overs per innings, or in hot weather
• Plan drinks breaks in practice sessions and matches every 20-40 minutes on warm sunny days. (This may sound excessive but on hot days players can need up to two or three litres each to stay fully hydrated)
• Avoid waiting for children to say they are thirsty before planning a drinks break as thirst is an indication of dehydration.

The ECB Sports Science support pack (via e-learning portal) reminds us that children tend to dehydrate more quickly than adults.

 Facilities and venues used for children’s cricket

RCC will ensure we have undertaken an adequate risk assessment on all facilities and venues used for any club activities, regardless of ownership of that facility or venue. This does not include away match venues for leagues but should include, where possible, facilities and venues that will be used on tours.

RCC regularly hire facilities from other organisations such as schools or community colleges and there are generic Clubmark risk assessment available for these facilities.

The outcomes of risk assessments may have an impact on RCC’s session planning or co-ordination of junior club training or matches. It is important RCC undertake risk assessments in advance and are updated on an annual basis, or if changes to the facility have taken place.

RCC January 2023

Aim of the Policy:

 The aim of this policy is to provide procedures and practical guidance for all Club employees, agents, volunteers, and other professionals and or partners working alongside the Club to safeguard children

Why the need for a Transport Policy?

 Statement taken from the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU):

“The CPSU encourages Staff not to take children on journeys alone in their car. This view has been taken by the CPSU from knowledge gained of how those who want to harm children have developed. Many will help through their genuine desire to see children, or their particular sport develop. Unfortunately, we must face the reality that a minority of others will join a sports club to gain access to children and create an air of acceptability about their role, justifying their close contact with children. Though those who want to abuse children may find it more difficult to do so in a group setting, such as a leisure centre or sports pitch, they could use this time to gain the trust of not only the young person but also other adults. Developing credibility is an essential part of any abusers “grooming process”, not only grooming the child, but also grooming other coaches or parents i.e., becoming the best volunteer. The last stage to enable someone to offend against a child is viewed as grooming the environment i.e., creating a justifiable reason for getting the child alone. There have in the past been many opportunities within the sport setting for those who wish to abuse children to isolate a particular child. Thankfully Sports Governing Bodies are reducing this possibility in most coaching sessions, but the issue of transport can still leave children vulnerable.”

Transport Policy

 The Club hereby notifies Staff and or Parents/Carers that:

• Parents/carers are responsible for the safe delivery and collection of their child to and from matches and or training.
• It is NOT the responsibility of the Club, coach or team manager or other Club staff to transport, or arrange to transport, or arrange for the safe delivery / collection of children to and from the Club, club matches, and training or club events.
• The Club receives, on registration, permission from parents/carers for children to participate in all competitions and away fixtures/events. This permission is by written consent or the online registration and is obtained at the beginning of the season.
• The Club Staff will distribute information as soon as practicable relating to all planned away fixtures or competitions to provide Parents/Carers with an opportunity to make appropriate arrangements. This will be done through the Club Pitchero email and messaging system and App and/or through the appropriate Club Staff via personal email or WhatsApp
• All club fixtures for the season are detailed on the RCC Website
• Coaches and club staff will only be responsible for children in their coaching/team groups when on Club premises, on arrival at opponents’ cricket grounds or during organised events.
• Club Staff are not liable or responsible for any private transportation arrangements organized by parents/carers with other family members, friends or even other team members in connection with getting their child to and or from club fixtures or training sessions.
• Parents/Carers are advised that when arranging lifts for their children with third parties, it is their responsibility to check that appropriate and up to date insurances and licensing documentation is held by the owner/driver of the vehicle.

Drop off and pick up arrangements

• Parents are required to ensure that all children are dropped off punctually at the start of sessions and that all children are promptly collected at the end of sessions including home and away matches, all coaching/ training sessions or club organised events.
• Parents/carers who knowingly are going to be late delivering or collecting their children must take reasonable steps to inform the appropriate Club Staff member as soon as possible so suitable arrangements can be made.
• Parents/guardians should have a contact number for the appropriate Club Staff member for the purposes of being able to inform them of emergencies and possible late collections.
• In the case of no such communication the Club Staff member will take reasonable steps to contact the parent/carer or alternative adult contact (details of which the Club collects on the online membership application) to make alternative arrangements bearing in mind all safeguarding precautions required.
• It is the Club policy that your child (or group of children if you are lift sharing) is/are personally handed over to and collected from the coach at each training session or match. Late cancellations are infrequent but possible and so we ask you to please ensure that all children are delivered and collected safely at all sessions.
• The Club will always attempt to notify parents/carers of any changes to scheduled sessions as soon as possible but cannot confirm the notification in time will always be possible
• It is the Clubs policy that children do not leave the playing facility without notifying the appropriate Club Staff that they are doing so.
• For Junior and Youth age groups, children will not be permitted to leave the playing facility unless the coach has handed the child to or seen / been in contact with their parent/carer (depending on child’s age)
• It is also the policy of the Club that parents/carers do not take their children away before the ground is tidied away (where required) and the Club Staff is able to release the players in a controlled way.

Note:

• the terms ‘child’ or ‘children’ apply to anyone under the age of 18
• the term ‘parent’ applies to anyone with guardianship or caring and parental responsibility for the child the term ‘staff’ applies to coaches, team managers and all employees whether full time or part and volunteers working for and on behalf of the Club
• the term Club means Rowledge Cricket Club

RCC January 2023

RCC is committed to maintaining a culture where it is safe, and acceptable, for all those involved in cricket to raise concerns about unacceptable practice and misconduct.

A coach, volunteer or member may be the first to recognise something is wrong but may not feel able to express their concerns out of a belief that this would be disloyal to colleagues or may fear harassment, victimisation or disadvantage.

These feelings, however natural, must never result in a child continuing to be unnecessarily at risk. Remember, it is often the most vulnerable children who are targeted. These children need someone to safeguard their welfare. Those involved in the sport must acknowledge their individual responsibilities to bring matters of concern to the attention of the relevant people and/or agencies.

Although this can be difficult, it is particularly important where the welfare of children may be at risk.

RCC assures all involved in cricket that they will be treated fairly and that all concerns will be properly considered. In cases where the suspicions prove to be unfounded, no action will be taken against those who report their suspicions/allegations, provided they acted in good faith and without malicious intent.

The Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 protects whistle blowers from victimisation, discipline or dismissal where they raise genuine concerns of misconduct or malpractice. 

Reasons for whistle blowing

Each individual has a responsibility for raising concerns about unacceptable practice or behaviour:

• To prevent the problem worsening or widening
• To protect or reduce risk to others
• To prevent becoming implicated yourself

What stops people from whistle blowing?

• Starting a chain of events which spirals
• Disrupting work or training
• Fear of getting it wrong
• Fear of repercussions or damaging careers
• Fear of not being believed

What happens next?

• You should be given information on the nature and progress of any enquiries
• All concerns will be treated in confidence. During the process of investigating the matter, every effort will be made to keep the identity of those raising the concern unknown, except to the minimum number of individuals practicable
• The Club Safeguarding Officer, County Safeguarding Officer and RCC have a responsibility to protect you from harassment or victimisation
• No action will be taken against you if the concern proves to be unfounded and was raised in good faith
• Malicious allegations may be considered a disciplinary offence

 Should suspicions be raised via a “tip off”, the person receiving the tip off should attempt to obtain the following information from the informant:

• Name address and telephone number
• Names of individuals involved
• The manner of the alleged incident/s or circumstances
• Whether they will submit any evidence (if applicable)
• How they became aware of the nature of the allegation
• You should not attempt to deal with any allegation or suspicion yourself, rather inform the
• Club Safeguarding Officer or County Safeguarding Officer or the ECB Safeguarding Team.

Specifically do not:

• Inform the person about whom the concern was raised
• Inform any other members, participants or employees
• Commence your own investigation
• Annotate or remove evidence
• Delay in reporting the suspicion

Also do not assume:

• “All is well, otherwise it would have been spotted earlier”
• “It doesn’t matter” or “no harm will arise”
• “Ignore it as it is not my responsibility”
• “Someone else must have reported it already”

Who do you tell?

The first person you should report your suspicion or allegation to is the Club Safeguarding Officer. If for any reason you cannot, or do not wish to report the matter to the Club Safeguarding Officer, you should refer to the County Safeguarding Officer. If you cannot, or do not wish to, report the information to either of these, then please contact the ECB Safeguarding Team by email on safeguarding@ecb.co.uk or telephone 020 7432 1200. Alternatively you can also contact Public Concern at Work on 020 7404 6609 or whistle@pcaw.org.uk

 Feedback

The amount of feedback relating to the issue will vary depending on the nature and result of the investigations. However, where possible, those who have raised concerns will be kept informed of the progress and conclusion of investigations, although they may not be informed of the detail unless they would need this information in order to safeguard children.

RCC January 2023