Anti-Bullying Week - 17th-21st November
We are fully behind Anti-Bullying Week activities between 17th-21st November and are urging local clubs to promote The FA’s comprehensive Anti-Bullying Policy, which is available to download below.
This year’s theme is ‘Let’s Stop Bullying for All’ and, as in previous years, the League are keen to support this week of action by asking for the help of local clubs to achieve this. All clubs are encouraged to sign-up to the Anti-Bullying Policy, which provides clubs with guidance on:
* signs and indicators of bullying;
* types of abuse, including discrimination and online bullying;
* organisations who can provide help and support for both parents and young people.
Anti-Bullying Week calls on children and young people to take a lead in creating a future without bullying, using new technologies to promote positive communication rather than being held back by cyberbullying. The objectives of the week are:
* to ensure all children and young people are equipped to recognise and challenge bullying behaviour wherever it happens - whether face-to-face or in cyberspace;
* to equip schools, colleges and youth service leaders with resources to encourage youth led anti-bullying initiatives and the positive use of new technologies;
* to educate those who support and work with children to recognise those who may be particularly vulnerable to bullying through new technologies - encouraging an inclusive approach to all e-safety education.
Alongside promoting anti-bullying messages within all areas of children’s activity this year, the Anti-Bullying Alliance are focusing specifically on raising awareness of bullying targeted towards disabled children and those with Special Education Needs. Research indicates that these children, of which many engage within football, are significantly more likely to experience bullying than those who are not disabled and don’t have a special education need.
Bullying has many different forms, more commonly experienced through either mobile phones or the Internet. For some, unfortunately, bullying is a major issue, affecting their lifestyle in many ways. It can leave young people and children feeling isolated. The Essex County FA are fortunate to have a qualified workforce of volunteer Welfare Officers, who have been trained to deal with safeguarding issues, including bullying.
Download The FA’s Anti-Bullying Policy for grassroots clubs below. To find out more on Anti-Bullying Week, and the work of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, go to www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk. For direct support in dealing with bullying issues within youth football, please contact your Club Welfare Officer. Childline also provide advice and support 24/7 via www.childline.org.uk and (0800) 1111.