Our Commitment

At Horley Lions FC, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment for all players. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated within our club.

Every player has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued both on and off the pitch. We actively work to promote a culture of respect, teamwork, and inclusion so that all children can enjoy their football experience.

What Is Bullying?

Bullying is behaviour that is deliberately hurtful and repeated over time, where it is difficult for the person being bullied to defend themselves.

Bullying can take many forms, including:

Physical Bullying

• Hitting, kicking, pushing, or any physical harm.

Verbal Bullying

• Name calling

• Insults

• Threats

• Offensive or discriminatory comments

Emotional Bullying

• Excluding someone from activities

• Spreading rumours

• Intimidation or humiliation

Cyber Bullying

• Hurtful messages or comments online

• Abuse through social media, group chats, or gaming platforms.

Our Club Values

Horley Lions FC promotes the following values at all times:

• Respect for teammates, coaches, officials, and opponents

• Fair play and good sportsmanship

• Teamwork and encouragement

• Inclusion and equality for all players

We expect all players, parents, coaches, and spectators to support these values.

Responsibilities

Players

• Treat teammates and opponents with respect.

• Speak to a coach, parent, or welfare officer if they feel uncomfortable or witness bullying.

Coaches & Volunteers

• Promote a positive and inclusive team environment.

• Address poor behaviour quickly and fairly.

• Take any reports of bullying seriously.

Parents & Guardians

• Encourage respectful behaviour.

• Support the club in maintaining a safe and positive environment.

• Report concerns to a coach or welfare officer if necessary.

Reporting Bullying

If a player experiences or witnesses bullying, they should speak to:

• Their team coach

• The Club Welfare Officer

• A trusted parent or guardian

All concerns will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and investigated appropriately.

How We Deal With Bullying

If bullying is identified, Horley Lions FC will:

1. Listen carefully to everyone involved.

2. Support the child who has been affected.

3. Address the behaviour with the individual responsible.

4. Work with parents or guardians where appropriate.

5. Take disciplinary action if necessary in line with club rules.

Our aim is always to resolve issues fairly while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all players.

Creating a Positive Environment

Bullying has no place in football or within Horley Lions FC. By working together — players, coaches, parents, and volunteers — we can create a club environment where every child feels confident, safe, and proud to be part of the team.