BARRY | VALE OF GLAMORGAN

LAWN BOWLING | BAR | SOCIAL

For Consideration

(Not yet approved)

Code of Conduct

1. OVERVIEW AND SCOPE

1.1 Purpose This Code of Conduct defines the standards of behaviour expected from everyone involved with the Club. It ensures a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for the enjoyment of lawn bowls and club facilities, while maintaining positive relations with the local community.

1.2 Scope of Application This policy is binding for:

  • Full members and social members.

  • Club officers and captains, committee members, and volunteers.

  • Visitors, competitors, spectators, and contractors.

  • Individuals representing the Club at external events.

1.3 Covered Activities This Code applies to all activities including:

  • The primary sport of lawn bowling.

  • Any social or non-bowling activities held within Club premises or under the Club’s name.

2. CORE PRINCIPLES OF BEHAVIOUR

2.1 Respect and Inclusion * Treat everyone with dignity and fairness regardless of age, gender, gender identity, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, or background.

  • Foster a welcoming environment for all full and social members.

  • Zero tolerance for discriminatory language or behaviour.

2.2 Sportsmanship and Integrity * Demonstrate good sportsmanship in both victory and defeat.

  • Be courteous to players, officials, club officers, captains, and volunteers.

  • Compete with honesty; avoid cheating, gamesmanship, or seeking unfair advantage.

  • Respect the decisions of umpires and officials.

2.3 Communication and Digital Conduct * Communicate respectfully in person and online.

  • Child-Friendly Standard: All online activity must be decent and child-friendly, acknowledging that the general public are observers of our online presence.

  • Online Abuse: Online abuse or public arguments will not be tolerated and will be dealt with under disciplinary procedures.

  • Avoid sharing offensive content related to the Club or its members on any public platform.

3. CLUB PREMISES AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS

3.1 Noise and Neighbour Consideration * Noise Abuse: All individuals must be mindful of the Club’s proximity to residential areas. Excessive noise, shouting, or rowdy behaviour that disturbs our neighbours is strictly prohibited.

  • Bad Language: The use of foul, profane, or aggressive language that can be heard by neighbours or the public is unacceptable.

  • Local Authority Action: Members must recognise that noise nuisance and antisocial behaviour can lead to formal complaints and legal action by the local authority against the Club.

3.2 Health, Safety, and Dress Code * Adhere to all health and safety procedures and report unsafe conditions immediately.

  • Take personal responsibility for actions while on Club grounds.

  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear in accordance with Club guidelines.

3.3 Substances and Environment * Alcohol: Consume alcohol responsibly and only in designated, permitted areas.

  • Smoking/Vaping: Restricted to designated outdoor areas; must not cause a nuisance.

  • Illegal Substances: Possession or use of illegal substances is strictly prohibited.

4. BREACHES AND ILLEGAL ACTIVITY

4.1 General Breaches Breaches of this Code include, but are not limited to, any of the following:

  • Verbal or physical abuse, intimidation, or bullying.

  • Wilful damage to property or equipment.

  • Noise abuse or use of bad language that causes a nuisance to the local community.

  • Repeated disruptive behaviour or refusal to follow reasonable instructions from club officers, captains, or committee members.

4.2 Illegal Activity and Serious Misconduct The Club will take immediate action regarding any illegal activity, including:

  • The possession, sale, or use of drugs.

  • Stealing or the possession/sale of stolen goods.

  • Illegal gambling or the sale of non-authorised items.

  • Authority Involvement: The Club reserves the right to involve the police or relevant local authorities for any illegal activity or persistent antisocial behaviour.

5. ENFORCEMENT AND SANCTIONS

5.1 Disciplinary Action All reported breaches, including those occurring online or affecting our neighbours, will be addressed via the Club’s Disciplinary and Complaints Policy.

5.2 Potential Sanctions * Verbal or written warnings.

  • Temporary or permanent suspension from Club activities (both bowling and social).

  • Termination of membership.

  • Reporting to governing bodies, local authorities, or law enforcement.

6. RESPONSIBILITIES AND REVIEW

6.1 Individual Responsibility All individuals must familiarise themselves with this Code, abide by these standards, and report inappropriate conduct to a committee member.

6.2 Committee Responsibility The Management Committee will promote this Code, investigate breaches fairly and promptly, and ensure the Club meets its legal, ethical, and community obligations.

Approved by: [Insert Name/Title]

Date of Approval: [Insert Date]

Next Review Due: [Insert Date]