THE OFFICIAL HOME CLUB COLOURS RED SHIRTS,RED SHORTS AND RED SOCKS

MILL HILL FOOTBALL CLUB HOME STRIP

THE OFFICIAL AWAY CLUB COLOURS BLUE SHIRTS ,BLUE SHORTS AND BLUE SOCKS

MILL HILL FOOTBALL CLUB AWAY STRIP

Mill Hill F.C. Club Rules

1. The club shall be called Mill Hill Football Club

2. The objects of the Club shall be to arrange association football matches and social activities for its members.

3. These rules (the Club Rules) form a binding agreement between each member of the Club.

4. RULES AND REGULATIONS

(a) The Club shall have the status of an Affiliated Member Club of The Football Association by virtue of its affiliation to/membership of The Football Association. The Rules and Regulations of The Football Association Limited and Lancashire County Association and any League or Competition to which the Club is affiliated for the time being shall be deemed to be incorporated into the Club Rules.

(b) No alteration to the Club Rules shall be effective without prior written approval by the parent Association.

(c) The Club will also abide by The Football Association’s Child Protection Policies and Procedures, Codes of Conduct and the Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy.

5. CLUB MEMBERSHIP

(a) The members of the Club from time to time shall be those persons listed in the register of members (the Membership Register) which shall be maintained by the Club Secretary.

(b) Any person who wishes to be a member must apply on the Membership Application Form and deliver it to the Club. Election to membership shall be at the sole discretion of the Club Committee. Membership shall become effective upon an applicant’s name being entered in the Membership Register.

(c) In the event of a member’s resignation or expulsion, his or her name shall be removed from the Membership Register.

(d) The Football Association and parent County Association shall be given access to the Membership Register on demand.

6. ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE

(a) An annual fee payable by each member shall be determined from time to time by the Club Committee. Any fee shall be payable on a successful application for membership and annually by each member. Fees shall not be repayable.

(b) The Club Committee shall have the authority to levy further subscriptions from the members as are reasonably necessary to fulfil the objects of the Club.

7. RESIGNATION AND EXPULSION

(a) A member shall cease to be a member of the Club if, and from the date on which, he/she gives notice to the Club Committee of their resignation. A member whose annual membership fee or further subscription is more than 2 months in arrears shall be deemed to have resigned.

(b) The Club Committee shall have the power to expel a member when, in their opinion, it would not be in the interests of the Club for them to remain a member. There shall be no appeal procedures.

(c) A member who resigns or is expelled shall not be entitled to claim any, or a share of any, of the Club Property.

8. CLUB COMMITTEE

(a) The Club Committee shall consist of the following Club Officers: Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary and Minutes Secretary, Child Welfare Officer, Primary School Liason,Secondary School Liason, plus up to 5 other members, elected at an Annual General Meeting.

(b) Each Club Officer and Club Committee Member shall hold office from the date of appointment until the next Annual General Meeting unless otherwise resolved at a Special General Meeting. One person may hold no more than two positions of Club Officer at any time. The Club Committee shall be responsible for the management of all the affairs of the Club. Decisions of the Club Committee shall be made by a simple majority of those attending the Club Committee meeting. The Chairperson of the Club Committee meeting shall have a casting vote in the event of a tie. Meetings of the Club Committee shall be chaired by the Chairman or in their absence the Vice chairman the quorum for the transaction of business of the Club Committee shall be three.

(c) Decisions of the Club Committee of meetings shall be entered into the Minute Book of the Club to be maintained by the Club Secretary.

(d) Any member of the Club Committee may call a meeting of the Club Committee by giving not less than 7 days’ notice to all members of the Club Committee. The Club Committee shall hold not less than four meetings a year.

(e) An outgoing member of the Club Committee may be re-elected. Any vacancy on the Club Committee which arises between Annual General Meetings shall be filled by a member proposed by one and seconded by another of the remaining Club Committee members and approved by a simple majority of the remaining Club Committee members.

(f) Save as provided for in the Rules and Regulations of The Football Association and the County Association to which the Club is affiliated, the Club Committee shall have the power to decide all questions and disputes arising in respect of any issue concerning the Club Rules.

9. ANNUAL AND SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING

( a) An Annual General Meeting (AGM) shall be held in each year to:

(i) receive a report of the activities of the Club over the previous year

(ii) receive a report of the Club’s finances over the previous year

(iii) elect the members of the Club Committee

(iv) consider any other business

(b) Nominations for election of members as Club Officers or as members of the Club Committee

shall be made in writing by the proposer and seconder, both of whom must be existing members of the Club, to the Club Secretary not less than 21 days before the AGM. Notice of any resolution to be proposed at the AGM shall be given in writing to the Club Secretary not less than 21 days before the Meeting.

(c) A Special General Meeting (SGM) may be called at any time by the Committee and shall be called within 21 days of the receipt by the Club Secretary of a requisition in writing signed by not less than five members stating the purposes for which the Meeting is required and the resolutions proposed. Business

at an SGM may be any business that may be transacted at an AGM.

(d) The Secretary shall send to each member at their last known address written notice of the date of a General Meeting together with the resolutions to be proposed at least 14 days before the Meeting.

(e) The quorum for a General Meeting shall be Five.

(f) The Chairman, or in their absence a member selected by the Club Committee, shall take the chair. Each member present shall have one vote and resolutions shall be passed by a simple majority. In the event of an equality of votes the Chairperson of the Meeting shall have a casting vote.

(g) The Club Secretary, or in their absence a member of the Club Committee, shall enter Minutes of General Meetings into the Minute Book of the Club.

10. CLUB TEAMS

At its first meeting following each AGM, the Club Committee shall appoint a Club member to be responsible for each of the Club’s football teams. The appointed members shall be responsible for managing the affairs of the team. The appointed members shall present to the Club Committee at its last meeting prior to an AGM a written report on the activities of the team.

11. CLUB FINANCES

(a) A bank account shall be opened and maintained in the name of the Club (the Club Account). Designated account signatories shall be the Club Chairperson, the Club Secretary and the Treasurer. No sum shall be drawn from the Club Account except by cheque signed by two of the three designated signatories. All monies payable to the Club shall be received by the Treasurer and deposited in the Club Account.

(b) The income and assets of the Club (the Club Property) shall be applied only in furtherance of the objects of the Club.

(c) The Club Committee shall have power to authorise the payment of remuneration and expenses to any member of the Club and to any other person or persons for services rendered to the Club.

(d) The Club shall prepare an annual Financial Statement in such form as shall be published by The Football Association from time to time.

(e) The Club Property, other than the Club Account, shall be vested in not less than two and no more than four custodians, one of whom shall be the Treasurer (the Custodians), who shall deal with the Club Property as directed by decisions of the Club Committee and entry in the Minute Book shall be conclusive evidence of such a decision.

(f) The Custodians shall be appointed by the Club in a General Meeting and shall hold office until death or resignation unless removed by a resolution passed at a General Meeting.

(g) On their removal or resignation a Custodian shall execute a Conveyance in such form as is published by The Football Association from time to time to a newly-elected Custodian or the existing Custodians as directed by the Club Committee. On the death of a Custodian, any Club Property vested in them shall vest automatically in the surviving Custodians. If there is only one surviving Custodian, a Special General Meeting shall be convened as soon as possible to appoint another Custodian.

(h) The Custodians shall be entitled to an indemnity out of the Club Property for all expenses and other liabilities reasonably incurred by them in carrying out their duties

12. DISSOLUTION

(a) A resolution to dissolve the Club shall only be proposed at a General Meeting and shall be carried by a majority of at least three-quarters of the members present.

(b) The dissolution shall take effect from the date of the resolution and the members of the Club Committee shall be responsible for the winding up of the assets and liabilities of the Club.

(c) Any surplus assets remaining after the discharge of the debts and liabilities of the Club shall be transferred to the parent Association who shall determine how the assets shall be utilised for the benefit of the game. alternatively,such assets may disposed of in such other manner as the members of the Club with the consent of the parent Association shall determine.

Mill Hill F.C. Club Complaints Procedure

In the event that any member feels that he or she has suffered discrimination in any way, or that the Club Policies, Rules or Code of Conduct have been broken, should follow the procedures below.

1. They should report the matter in writing to the Club Secretary or another member of the Committee.

Your report should include:

i. Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place.

ii. Any witness statement and names.

iii. Names of any others who have been treated in a similar way.

iv. Details of any former complaints made about the incident, date, when and to whom made.

v. A preference for a solution to the incident.

2. The Club’s Executive Committee will sit for any hearings that are requested.

3. The Club’s executive Committee will have the power to:

i. Warn as to future conduct

ii. Suspend from membership

iii. Remove from membership

any person found to have broken the Club’s Rules, Policies or Codes of Conduct

Red / Yellow Cautions.

It is a policy of the Club that players / parents shall pay all fines for Red and/or Yellow cards received UNLESS in the opinion of the team manager the card received was a harsh decision - or one that was seemingly unjustified. If a parent refuses to pay any such fine, the fine will be paid by the club and that players' membership shall be suspended. It should be noted that a player cannot join another club until all financial commitments to Mill Hill Football Club are met . All appeals against charges levelled at individuals whether parents,spectators or players must be paid by the appelant and any subsequent fines/sanctions will be the responsibility of the individual/s concerned

Sponsorship.

Sponsorship offered by parents / local companies etc. is obviously warmly welcomed, but the committee must be kept informed at all times and all sponsorship monies must be handed to the treasurer.

ALL KIT MUST BE ORDERED THROUGH THE CLUB THE CLUB BADGE IS THE PROPERTY OF THE CLUB AND CAN ONLY BE USED WITH PRIOR CONSENT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITEE.

All Clubs colours and design whether Home or Away must be strictly adhered to. Kits are generally handed down at the end of each season to the next age group, but the kit situation will be reviewed each YEAR.

All kit/equipment, however funded, remains the property of Mill Hill Football Club.

Fund Raising.

It is the policy of the Club that fund – raising discos / social evenings should include all age groups to maintain "Club identity". Any funds raised will be for the benefit of all players/Teams within the club. Individual team fund raising for kit / equipment / social activities is permitted but all funds/sponsorship raised must handed in to the treasurer

Players must pay an annual signing on fee before the start of each season. Failure to pay will result in exclusion from match selection. Weekly subscriptions for training and match day fees must be paid before the start of each activity.

2009/2010 season. Training subscription £2.00 Matchday subscription £3.00

PLEASE REMEMBER FOOTBALL IS A GAME TO BE ENJOYED BY ALL !

"IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT WE ALL SUPPORT THE CLUB. EVERYONE IS EXPECTED TO INVOLVE THEMSELVES IN THE CLUB'S FUND-RAISING AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES. BE PROUD OF YOUR CLUB!"

RULES AND CODES OF CONDUCT

Committee members, coaches, members and parents are expected to adhere to it in order to maintain the high standards the club has set itself. The Club and its Committee will :

1) Ensure that all members adhere to the Code of Conduct and take appropriate action if not.

2) Provide necessary kit and equipment.

3) Provide adequate insurance cover.

4) Fairly address any grievances/complaints and make decisions that are in the best interest of the club.

Club Officials will :

1) Respect other coaches,match officials, and league officials.

2) Respect the Club property and Kit/equipment.

3) Respect the opposition players, officials and supporters.

4) Respect the opposition's property and equipment.

5) Never use language that may offend others.

6) Respect referees and any decisions they may make.

7) Never physically or verbally abuse any child or parent.

8) Always be punctual for training and on match days.

9) Never take alcohol or drugs whilst children are under their supervision.

10) Encourage fair play within the rules of the game.

11) Have an adequate knowledge of the rules of the game.

12) Always make decisions, which are in the best interest of the children and the Club

13) Always be available to listen to children's or parents queries/ grievances and bring them to the attention of the Committee

14) Encourage at all times !

15) Involve and be prepared to coach children of all abilities.

16) When necessary, discipline the children in a proper manner, all in accordance with Club regulations

PLAYERS

1. All players are required to act within the spirit of the game and abide by the laws of the game.

2. Violent conduct and foul or abusive language WILL NOT be tolerated under any circumstances.

3. Bullying, intimidation or theft WILL NOT be tolerated under any circumstances.

4. The use of racial abuse or racist language will be dealt with very severely and reported to the appropriate authorities.

5. The decisions of the match official(s) will not be questioned, even if you don’t agree with them – we all make mistakes.

6. Players should thank the match official(s) after the game – without them we cannot play at all.

7. Players must shake hands with their opponents at the end of the game, regardless of the score.
win,lose or draw.

8. Shin pads must be worn both at training sessions and matches. Player’s socks MUST cover shin pads; socks are to be suitably tied up.

9. Be punctual for all coaching/training sessions and all matches.

10. Inform your team manager/coach as soon as possible if you cannot attend a coaching/training session or are unavailable for matches whatever the reason. Failure to notify the manager for four weeks will be taken as a resignation from the club.

11. Take pride in your appearance. Ensure that your boots are clean and correctly laced. Studs should be in good condition and DO NOT present a danger to other players.

12. Failing to prepare before any coaching/training session or match is "preparing to fail."

13. Shirts must be tucked into shorts at all times and socks pulled up to knees.

14. Let us leave a favorable impression on our opponents. Players should also show respect for their own and other people’s property.

15. Never take alcohol or drugs, whilst under the supervision of a club official.

16. Always encourage fellow team members even when having a bad day.

17. Notify coaches of any injuries.

PARENTS AND SPECTATORS

1. The club and team managers are held responsible for the behaviour of players and spectators before, during and after the game. The club will be disciplined by Lancashire County F.A or the relevant Leagues for any incidents that involve players and/or spectators.All players and spectators will be liable for any financial punishments imposed for their actions.

2. The decision of the match official(s) must not be questioned.

3. Parents and spectators must not become involved in arguments with Club officials, match officials, opposing players or their supporters. The use of racial abuse or racist language by spectators will be dealt with very severely and reported to the appropriate authorities.

4. It is especially important for parents and spectators to stay off the field of play at all times and behind any barriers or coned off areas, it is the Manager/Coaches responsibility to attend players at the referees request.This includes before during and after games and especially at the half- time team talks! Parents must also refrain from standing behind the goals.Parents must seek consent from managers before entering the changing rooms at any time.

5. All disputes regarding the behavior of match official(s) or the opposing players and their spectators will be the responsibility of the team manager who will follow official procedures for the registration of the complaint to the relevant authority.

6. All players and spectators should appreciate the skill and effort from both teams, irrespective of the result.

7. Encourage the team from the touchline but please remain silent regarding any mistakes made. Leave any coaching to the manager – it is more efficient and less confusing for the players.

8. Respect decisions made by Club officials, as they will always be made in the best interest of the Club.

9. Ensure that coaches/managers know who is collecting their child after training or on a match day.

10. Encourage their child at all times.

11. Never use language that may offend others.

12. Respect the Club coaches and officials.

13. Respect the Club's property and Kit/equipment

Mill Hill Football Club is proud to play a role in its community. We abide by FA regulations and look to protect the children in our care by adhering to the following policies.

	CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Mill Hill Football Club, shall through the Child Protection Officer(Nick McPartlan), adhere to the ChildProtection Procedures and Practices defined within the Football Association handbook.The role of the Child Protection Officer will: Support the Club to disseminate The FA Child Protection Policy, Procedures and Practices. Undertake any necessary meetings and make presentations to the Club, it's officials, players and parents. Play an active role in the delivery of the FA's strategic plan for Child Protection in football. Be the prime contact for any parent or player that has any Child Protection related issues. Treat all issues sensitively and in confidence. Further information is available on the child welfare link on the navigation panel.

	GOALPOST SAFETY GUIDELINES The Football Association, along with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Health and Safety Executive and the British Standards Institution, would like to draw your attention to the following guidelines for the safe use of goalposts. Too many serious injuries and fatalities have occurred in recent years as a result of unsafe or incorrect use of goalposts. Safety is always of paramount importance and everyone in football must play their part to prevent similar incidents occurring in the future. For safety reasons goalposts of any size (including those which are portable and not installed permanently at a pitch or practice field) must always be anchored securely to the ground. Portable goalposts must be secured by the use of chain anchors or appropriate anchor weights to prevent them from toppling forward. It is essential that under no circumstances should children or adults be allowed to climb, swing on or play with the structures of the goalposts. Particular attention is drawn to the fact that if not properly assembled and secured, portable goalposts may topple over. Regular inspections of goalposts should be carried out to check that they are kept properly maintained. Portable goalposts should not be left in place after use. They should be dismantled and removed to a place of secure storage. It is strongly recommended that nets should only be secured by plastic hooks or tape and not by metal cup hooks. Any metal cup hooks should be removed and replaced. New goalposts should not be purchased if they include metal cup hooks which cannot be replaced. Goalposts which are “home made” or which have been altered from their original size or construction should not be used. These have been the cause of a number of deaths and injuries. Guidelines to prevent toppling: Follow Manufacturer's guide-lines in assembling goalposts. Before use, adults should: Ensure each goal is anchored securely in its place. Exert a significant downward force on the cross bar. Exert a significant backward force on both upright posts. Exert a significant forward force on both upright posts. These must be repeated until it is established that the structure is secure. If not, alternative goals/pitches must be used. For reference, you should note that The FA and BSI have developed a standard for future purchases (PAS 36:2000), available from BSI. It is hoped this will be developed into a full British Standard in due course. Remember to use all equipment, not just goalposts, safely at all times.

	ANTI-DISCRIMINATION POLICY As the governing body of the game, The Football Association is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the game at every level. Football belongs to, and should be enjoyed by, everyone equally. Our commitment is to eliminate discrimination whether by reason of gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or ability and to encourage equal opportunities. The following policy is at the heart of the Club's activities: Mill Hill Football Club is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the Club at every level. Football belongs to and should be enjoyed by everyone, equally. Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability. Equality of opportunity at Mill Hill Football Club means that in all our activities we will not discriminate or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or ability. This includes: selection of candidates for volunteers. Courses. External coaching and education activities and awards. Football development activities. Selection for teams. Appointments to honorary positions.The advertisement for volunteers. Mill Hill Football Club will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal, and will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs. Mill Hill Football Club is committed to the development of the programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities, in order to promote the eradication of discrimination within its own organisation, and within football as a whole.

Mill Hill F.C. Club Complaints Procedure

In the event that any member feels that he or she has suffered discrimination in any way, or that the Club Policies, Rules or Code of Conduct have been broken, should follow the procedures below.

1. They should report the matter in writing to the Club Secretary or another member of the Committee.

Your report should include:

i. Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place.

ii. Any witness statement and names.

iii. Names of any others who have been treated in a similar way.

iv. Details of any former complaints made about the incident, date, when and to whom made.

v. A preference for a solution to the incident.

2. The Club’s Management Committee will sit for any hearings that are requested.

3. The Club’s Management Committee will have the power to:

i. Warn as to future conduct

ii. Suspend from membership

iii. Remove from membership

any person found to have broken the Club’s Policies or Codes of Conduct

Dealing with an Incident/Accident

1. Stay calm but act swiftly and observe the situation. Is there danger of further injuries?

2. Listen to what the injured person is saying

3. Alert the first-aider who should take appropriate action for minor injuries

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

5. Deal with the rest of the group and ensure that they are adequately supervised

6. Do not move someone with major injuries. Wait for the emergency medics

7. Contact the injured person’s parent/guardian

8 Complete an accident report form

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Statement of Intent

We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our members so they can participate

in football in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur,

all club members or parents should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively.

We are a TELLING club. This means that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the club

welfare officer or any committee member.

Objectives of this Policy

•All club members, coaches, officials and parents/carers

should have an understanding of what bullying is

•All club members, officials and coaching staff should

know what the club policy is on bullying, and follow it

when bullying is reported

•All players and parents/carers should know what the

club policy is on bullying, and what they should do if

bullying arises

•As a club we take bullying seriously. Players and

parents/carers should be assured that they would be

supported when bullying is reported

•Bullying will not be tolerated

•All club members, coaches, officials and parents/carers

should have an appreciation of the signs and indicators

of bullying.

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 be:

•Emotional being unfriendly, excluding (emotionally

and physically), sending hurtful text

messages, tormenting (e.g. hiding football

boots/shin guards, threatening gestures)

•Physical pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any

use of violence

•Racist racial taunts, graffiti, gestures

•Sexual unwanted physical contact or sexually

abusive comments

•Homophobic because of, or focussing on the issue of

sexuality

•Verbal name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours,

teasing.

Why is it Important to Respond to Bullying?

Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying.

Everybody has the right to be treated with respect.

Individuals who are bullying need to learn different ways

of behaving.

This club have a responsibility to respond promptly and

effectively to issues of bullying.

A child may indicate by signs or behaviour that he or she is

being bullied. Adults should be aware of these possible

signs and they should investigate if a child:

•says he or she is being bullied

•is unwilling to go to club sessions

•becomes withdrawn, anxious, or lacking in confidence

•feels ill before training sessions

•comes home with clothes torn or training equipment

damaged

•has possessions 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.

Or, in more extreme cases, if a 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 may indicate other problems,

but bullying should be considered a possibility and should

be investigated.

Procedures

1. Report bullying incidents to the club welfare officer

or a member of the clubs committee or contact the

County Football Association Child Protection Officer

(CFA CPO)

2. In cases of serious bullying, the incidents will be

referred to the CFA CPO for advice and possibly to the

FA Case Management System

3. Parents/carers should be informed and will be asked to

come in for a meeting to discuss the problem

4. If necessary and appropriate, Police will be consulted

5. The bullying behaviour or threats of bullying must be

investigated and the bullying stopped quickly

6. An attempt will be made to help the bully (bullies)

change their behaviour

7. If mediation fails and the bullying is seen to continue

the club will initiate disciplinary action under the club

constitution.

Recommended Club Action

If the club decides it is appropriate for them to deal

with the situation they should follow the procedure

outlined below.

1. Reconciliation by getting the parties together. It may be

that a genuine apology solves the problem

2. If this fails or is not appropriate a small panel (made up

from chairman, club welfare officer, secretary,

committee members) should meet with the

parents/carers and child alleging bullying to get details

of the allegation. Minutes should be taken for clarity,

which should be agreed by all as a true account

3. The same three persons should meet with the alleged

bully and parents/carers and put the incident raised to

them to answer and give their view of the allegation.

Minutes should again be taken and agreed

4. If bullying has in their view taken place, the individual

should be warned and put on notice of further action

i.e. temporary or permanent suspension if the bullying

continues. Consideration should be given as to whether

a reconciliation meeting between parties is appropriate

at this time

5. In some cases the parent/carers of the bully or bullied

player can be asked to attend training sessions, if they

are able to do so, and if appropriate. The club committee

should monitor the situation for a given period to

ensure the bullying is not being repeated

6. All coaches involved with both individuals should be

made aware of the concerns and outcome of the

process i.e. the warning.

In the Case of Adults Reported to be Bullying Anyone

Within the Club Under 18

1. The CFA CPO should always be informed and will

advise on action to be taken where appropriate

2. It is anticipated that in most cases where the allegation

is made regarding a team manager, official or coach,

The FA’s Child Protection and Best Practice awareness

training may be recommended

3. More serious cases may be referred to the Police

and/or Social Services.

Prevention

•The club will have a written constitution, which includes

what is acceptable and proper behaviour for all members

of which the anti-bullying policy is one part

•All club members and parents will sign to accept the

constitution upon joining the club

•The club welfare officer will raise awareness about

bullying and why it matters, and if issues of bullying arise

in the club, will consider meeting with members to

discuss the issue openly and constructively.

This policy is based on guidance provided to

schools by KIDSCAPE.

KIDSCAPE is a voluntary organisation committed to help

prevent child bullying. KIDSCAPE can be contacted on

0207 730 3300 or you can access their website via

www.kidscape.org.

Club Child Protection Policy

1. Mill Hill Football Club acknowledges its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child and young person who has been entrusted to its care and is committed to working to provide a safe environment for all members. A child or young person is anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any club football activity. We subscribe to The Football Association’s child protection and best practice policy and procedures and endorseand adopt the policy statement contained in that document.

2. The key principles of The FA child protection policy are that:

• The child’s welfare is, and must always be, the paramount consideration

• All children and young people have a right to be protected from abuse regardless of their age,

gender, disability, culture, language, racial origin, religious beliefs or sexual orientation

• All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately

• Working in partnership with other organisations, children and young people and their parents or carers is essential. We acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or participates in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse.

Mill Hill Football Club recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult involved in our club.

3. Mill Hill Football Club has a role to play in safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. It is noted and accepted that The Football Association’s child protection regulation (see The FA Handbook) applies to everyone in football whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. This includes those who are a volunteer, match official, helper on club tours, football coach, club official or medical staff.

4. We endorse and adopt The FA’s child protection and best practice guidelines for recruiting volunteers and will:

• Develop a role profile

• Request identification documents

• As a minimum meet and chat with the applicant(s) and where possible conduct interviews before

appointing

• Request and follow up with two references before appointing

• Require an FA CRB Unit Enhanced Disclosure where appropriate in line with FA guidelines.

All current Mill Hill Football Club members with direct access to children and young people will be required to complete a CRB Enhanced Disclosure via The FA CRB Unit. If there are concerns regarding the appropriateness of an individual who is already involved or who has approached us to become part of Mill HillFootball Club guidance will be sought from The Football Association. It is noted and accepted that The FA will consider the relevance and significance of the information obtained via The FA CRB Unit Enhanced CRB Disclosure and that all decisions will be made in the best interests of children and young people. It is accepted that The FA aims to prevent people with a history of relevant and significant offending from having contact with children or young people and the opportunity to influence policies or practice with children or young people. This is to prevent direct

sexual or physical harm to children and to minimise the risk of ‘grooming’ within football.

5. Mill Hill Football Club supports The FA’s whistle blowing policy. Any adult or young person with concerns about a colleague can ‘whistle blow’ by contacting

The FA Child Protection Manager on 0207 745 4771, by writing to

The FA Case Manager at The Football Association,

25 Soho Square, London W1D 4FA or by going direct to

the police, social services or the NSPCC.

Mill Hill Football Club encourages everyone to know about it and utilise it if necessary.

6. Mill Hill Football Club has appointed Nick McPartlan as Club Welfare Officer (CWO) in line with The FA’s role profile and required completion of the child protection and best practice workshop. The CWO will be involved with designated person’s training provided by The FA.

The CWO is the first point of contact for all club members and parents or guardians regarding concerns for the welfare of any child or young person. They will liaise directly with the FA CPO and will be familiar with the procedures for referring any concerns. They will also play a proactive role in increasing an awareness of poor practice and abuse amongst club members.

7. We acknowledge and endorse The FA’s identification of bullying as a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club.If bullying does occur, all players, parents or guardians should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly. Incidents need to be reported to the CWO, a member of the committee or, in cases of serious bullying contact the FA CPO.

8 Codes of conduct for players, parents or spectators, officials and coaches have been implemented by Mill Hill Football Club. In order to validate these codes of conduct the club has clear sanctions to deal with any misconduct at club level and acknowledges the possibility of potential sanctions

which may be implemented by leagues or the CFA in more serious circumstances. All prospective members will be informed of these codes.

9 Further advice on child protection matters can be obtained from:

• The County Football Association’s Child Protection Officer, whose details can be found in the

County Handbook

• The Football Association/NSPCC Child Protection

• 24-Hour Helpline 0808 800 5000

• www.TheFA.com/Goal

• The FA child protection team 0207 745 4649.

NICK McPARTLAN 07736028806 CLUB CHILD WELFARE OFFICER

Photo's & Videos

Celebrating Football Photographs and Video There has been much talk about whether it’s safe

to take pictures of under 18s playing sport. The FA would like to assure parents, carers,

coaches, spectators, players and local media that we encourage the taking of appropriate images

of children in football. Potential risks The FA has developed this guidance to help

avoid the following:

The inappropriate use, adaptation or copying of images for use on child abuse websites on

the internet (often referred to as pornography sites);

The identification of children when a photograph is accompanied by significant

personal information that will assist a third party in identifying the child. This can lead,

and has led, to children being ‘groomed’; and The identification and locating of children in

inappropriate circumstances which include:

(i) where a child has been removed from

his/her family for their own safety;

(ii) where restrictions on contact with one

parent following a parental separation

exist e.g. in domestic violence cases;

(iii) in situations where a child may be a

witness in criminal proceedings; or

(iv) other child protection concerns.

The majority of images taken are appropriate and taken in good faith. If we take the following

simple measures we can help to ensure the safety of children in football.

Common sense considerations to ensure everyone’s safety:

Do

1. Share The FA’s guidance on taking images with all parents, carers and members when they join the club;

2. Ensure the club has parental consent to use a player’s image if it is to be used in the public

domain e.g. club website or newspaper article. This is essential in relation to point 3

below;

3. Ensure that any child in your club who is under care proceedings, is protected by

ensuring that their image is not placed in the public domain. This can be done by using an

annual consent form, so that parents/carers can identify if this applies to children in their

care

4. Focus on the activity rather than the individual;

5. Ensure all those featured are appropriately dressed (a minimum of vest or shirt and

shorts);

6. Aim to take pictures which represent the broad range of youngsters participating safely

in football e.g. boys and girls, disabled people, ethnic minority communities; and

7. Report any instances of inappropriate images in football to The FA Case Manager or the

Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) contact details can be found on the following page.

Don’t

1. Publish photographs with the full name(s) of the individual(s) featured unless you have

written consent to do so and you have informed the parents as to how the image

will be used; The FA Charter Standard Club Programme Celebrating Football

Photographs and Video

2. Use player profiles with pictures and detailed personal information on websites;

3. Use an image for something other than that for which it was initially agreed, e.g.

published in local press when initially produced for a clubhouse commemorative

picture; and

4. Allow images to be recorded in changing rooms, showers or toilets - this includes the

use of mobile phones that record images. Remember It’s 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 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;

The land or facility owner can decide whether or not photography and/or videoing of

football activities will be permitted when carried out on private land. However you

need to make this known before allowing individuals access to the private property. If

they do not comply then you may request

that they leave; and Try not to use images that include individuals

wearing jewellery (as wearing jewellery whilst playing is contrary to the Laws of the Game as

well as being a health and safety issue). Commissioning professional photographers

and the local media If you are commissioning professional photographers or inviting the press to cover a

football activity ensure you and they are clear about each other’s expectations. Remember the

key is to plan ahead and communicate early on. Provide a clear brief about what is considered

appropriate in terms of content and behaviour; Inform them of your club’s commitment to

safeguarding children and young people and establish who will hold the recorded images and what they intend to do with them, e.g. place on a website for sale, distribute thumb nails to the club to co-ordinate sales;

Issue the professional photographer with identification, which must be worn at all times;

Inform participants and parents or carers prior to the event that a professional photographer

will be in attendance and ensure you have established that no under 18s will be compromised due to child protection concerns if their image is taken – remember this can be done by using the annual consent

form at the start of the season. To report potentially unlawful materials on the internet please contact:

The Internet Watch Foundation

Email: report@iwf.org.uk Telephone: 08456

008844 Fax the hotline: 01223 235921

www.iwf.org.uk

FA Case Management

Email: ComplianceQueries@TheFA.com

www.TheFA.com/Goal

Safeguarding Adults

If you have any concerns about potential adult abuse contact:

Blackburn with Darwen social services’ 24 hour service on (01254) 587547.
In an emergency - where there is immediate danger - always contact the police on 999.
If your concerns are about a possible crime, you can contact the police on (01254) 51212.Adult protection in Blackburn with Darwen is co-ordinated through the area adult safeguarding committee (AASC) and is managed through the detailed procedures agreed by the area adult safeguarding committee. Click here for more information on the area adult safeguarding committee.
Safeguarding Adults Policies and Procedures

Every day vulnerable adults are physically, psychologically, financially or sexually abused, discriminated against or neglected by others. And every day people witness this and say nothing.

Who may be vulnerable or most at risk of abuse?

Anyone could be a vulnerable adult at some point in their life:

• People with physical disabilities
• People with learning disabilities
• People with mental health needs
• Older people
• People with a sight or hearing loss
• People who are ill or injured
The key point is that the person is “unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or exploitation.”

What is abuse?

Abuse is any behaviour towards a person that deliberately or unknowingly causes him or her harm, endangers life or violates their rights. It might be a single action or a series of actions. It might also be a failure to protect people from abuse.

Abuse can be:

Physical
• Grabbing, pushing, shaking, pinching, biting, hitting
• Withholding food or drink
• Unnecessary restraint
• Failing to provide aids to living- for example glasses or a walking stick
• Failing to provide physical care

Sexual
• Unwanted sexual attention
• Teasing/ innuendo
• Molesting/ touching
• Rape

Emotional or Psychological
• Verbal abuse, shouting, swearing, insulting, threatening
• Ignoring people or withholding affection
• Denying people privacy or other rights
• Patronising attitudes
• Humiliation

Financial or Material
• Theft of money or property
• Borrowing money and not repaying
• Refusing people access to their own money or possessions
• Denying people care or comfort on cost grounds

Where does abuse happen?

Abuse can happen anywhere, for example:

At home
In care homes
In day centres
At work
At college
In hospitals, surgeries or other health centres.
In public places or in the community

Who abuses?

Anyone can abuse. The abuser can be well known to the person or a stranger:

Partner
Carer (paid or unpaid)
Relative
Neighbour
Friend
Volunteer helper
Someone not known to the person

Sometimes, caring for someone can be hard. Abuse can be a result of frustration or a ‘cry for help’. In these cases, it is important that abuse is reported. Social services can then offer support to the carer that helps them and the person they care for.

What to do

Someone may tell you something that has happened to them or you may hear or see something happening to someone that makes you feel uneasy or uncomfortable.

If you have any concerns about adult abuse you should telephone:

Blackburn with Darwen social services’ 24 hour service: (01254) 587547.
In an emergency - where there is immediate danger - always contact the police on 999.
If your concerns are about a possible crime, you can contact the police on 01254 51212.

What happens if I call?

You do not have to give your name. If you do give your name, it will not be given to the people involved. All information given to social services will be investigated fully and appropriately. The investigation will try to find out why the abuse happened. Sometimes, abuse is a sign that someone is finding it difficult to care for someone else.

You may not be told all the details of what has happened. This is because we have a duty of confidentiality. Depending on how bad the abuse is, and what the motive of the abuser is, there might be a police investigation. In the case of professional care staff, there could be disciplinary action, including sacking.

The important thing is that the abuse stops!

Club Child Protection Policy