ANTI-BULLYING POLICY Overview Dedham Recreation is committed to providing a friendly, safe and positive environment for all of our members so they can enjoy our programs in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Harassment or bullying of any kind is unacceptable. If incidents do occur, they will be dealt with promptly and effectively. Dedham Recreation has developed this guideline for ensuring the complete enjoyment of our members. What Is Bullying? Bullying is any intentional act that results in the emotional or physical injury of another person. Bullying can be: - Emotional- being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g. hiding conversations, threatening words or gestures, belittling)
- Physical- pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence
- Racial- racial taunts, graffiti, 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, teasing
Signs and Symptoms 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: - ...develops a disinterest in attending training
- ...becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence
- ...becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable
- ...is bullying other children or siblings
- ...changes eating habits
- ...is afraid to say what's wrong
- ...gives improbable excuses for any of the above
Policy - All program participants, parents and coaches shall have an understanding of what bullying is.
- Dedham Recreation will take clear and appropriate measures if bullying occurs.
- Parents and athletes are assured that they will be supported when bullying is reported.
- Bullying will not be tolerated.
Procedures - Any bullying incidents should be reported to your child’s coach/instructor. Coaches will attempt to resolve the problem through time-outs, or temporary removal from program. Parents will be informed. (both aggressor and victim)
- For more serious incidents, or when coaches actions does not stop the inappropriate behaviour, the incident will be referred to the Recreation Director who may take more extreme measures such as temporary suspension from said Recreation Program.
- In cases where harassment or bullying continues despite warnings, the Director will take appropriate action, which may include permanent suspension from program. After the incident / incidents have been investigated and dealt with, each case will be monitored to ensure repeated bullying does not take place.
- If necessary and appropriate, police will be consulted.
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