Newsletter

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CROMER MARRAMS BOWLS CLUB CONSTITUTION AND RULES (RATIFIED 25 MAY 2024) 

The Members should acknowledge this document constitutes a legally binding contract to regulate the relationship of the members with each other and the Club. Any renewal or amendment to this document must be ratified by a meeting of members at an AGM/SGM.

NAME AND OBJECTIVE

The name of the Club shall be ‘CROMER MARRAMS BOWLS CLUB’ (hereinafter referred to within this constitution as the ‘Club’). The Club shall be affiliated to Bowls England, the English Bowling Federation and Norfolk Bowls Association.

The Aims of the Club are to provide facilities for, and to promote participation in, the amateur sport of outdoor flat green bowls in CROMER. The Club shall adopt and conform to Bowls England and English Bowling Federation Rules & Regulations and the current Laws of the Sport of Bowls. The objective of the club is the promotion of the game of bowls under the rules laid down by Bowls England and the English Bowling Federation. All members shall foster social activities for the club. The club is a member’s club and the management of the club shall be the direct responsibility of the Management Committee elected by the club members.

OFFICERS OF THE CLUB

The Officers of the Club shall be Full or Social Members of the Club and shall consist of PRESIDENT/CLUB CAPTAIN

MANAGEMENT SECRETARY/TREASURER/BOWLS SECRETARY/FIXTURE SECRETARY

CLUB COMPETITIONS SECRETARY/EBA LEAGUE CAPTAIN/EBF LEAGUE CAPTAINS/LADIES CAPTAIN

NANSA LEAGUE CAPTAIN/COUNTY DELEGATE/SAFEGUARDING OFFICER.

The Chairman will be elected by Committee members, at the first meeting after the AGM, and will have the casting vote. Officers shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting and shall hold office for the period of election, retiring at the end of the period of election. All Officers of the Club shall be eligible for re-election to the same office or another office at the end of their current period of election.

Officers’ roles within the Club:

Chairman: To Chair all relevant meetings of the Club; To have the casting vote at all relevant meetings of the Club in the event of equality

President: To represent the Club on match days and other special events

Management Secretary: To keep a register of Club members' contact details; To conduct the correspondence of the Club; To keep custody of all Club documents; To keep full minutes of all meetings of the Club, the Committee and Sub‐Committees

Bowls Secretary: To conduct the bowls correspondence of the Club

Treasurer: To collect all relevant fees from Club members; To make all relevant payments on behalf of the Club; To prepare Annual Balance Sheet for examination; To administer such insurance policy or policies as may be needed to fully protect the interests of the Club, its Officers and its members; To present Accounts for approval at the AGM

Fixture Secretary: To arrange matches as relevant with other clubs

Captain/s: To select relevant representative teams

Competitions Secretary: To arrange internal competitions for Club members to participate in

County Delegate: To act as a liaison between the Club and other relevant associations

Safeguarding Officer: To be the first point of contact for members, guests, children and parents for any issue relating to safeguarding; To ensure parents/guardians return all necessary documentation and that club records are kept up to date; To ensure any incidents and concerns are dealt with promptly and in accordance with these Procedures

MEMBERSHIP

The number of SOCIAL Members in the club must not exceed 49%.

There shall be the following categories of membership with power to vote at all relevant meetings of the Club as indicated hereunder.

• A FULL MEMBER – being a person who, at the date of election, shall have attained the age of eighteen years shall have one vote.
• A JUNIOR MEMBER – being a person who, at the date of election, is under the age of eighteen shall have NO vote. Such a member shall be one who at the commencement of the subscription year joins the Club other than as a full member.
• AN HONORARY/LIFE MEMBER – who shall have one vote.
• A SOCIAL MEMBER – who shall have one vote.

No member may use the Club premises, or any of the facilities of the Club, until their membership is accepted.

Rights and privileges of members

The rights and privileges of each category of membership shall be as follows: ‐

(a) A FULL MEMBER shall have the full use of all Club facilities. Affiliation Fees shall be paid by the club to the relevant organisations.

(b) A JUNIOR MEMBER shall have the full use of all Club facilities. Affiliation Fees shall be paid by the club to the relevant organisations.

(c) AN HONORARY/LIFE MEMBER shall have the full use of all the Club facilities. Affiliation Fees shall be paid by the club to the relevant organisations.

(d) A SOCIAL MEMBER shall have the full use of the Clubhouse facilities.

Membership subscription fee:

The rate of Subscription Fee for each category of Membership shall be fixed by the Committee and reported to the members each year. The current rate of Subscription Fee shall be stated on the website and in member news.

Membership of the Club shall be open to anyone interested in the sport of outdoor flat green bowls on application regardless of sex, age, disability, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, religion or other beliefs. Membership may however be limited according to available facilities on a non-discriminatory basis.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club is an outdoor flat green bowls facility. It is fully inclusive, promoting social interaction, fun and sport in a safe environment. It offers competitive and skills development opportunities to the highest level for the whole community. Its development is somewhat limited by the fact that it is in a rural environment with a limited catchment area. Although prepared to make itself available to all ethnic groups, the social composition of the area lacks diversity. The sport itself suffers from the public perception that bowls is a sport for the demographic group that embraces the elderly/retired.

Membership subscriptions will be kept at levels that will not pose a significant obstacle to people participating. The Club Committee may refuse membership or remove it, only for good cause such as conduct likely to bring the Club or sport into disrepute. Appeal against refusal or removal may be made to the members. The Secretary shall inform each candidate of their election or non-election.

All members shall pay their first annual subscription fee upon election to the Club, and thereafter by 1st May. In default of such payment, the election shall be void unless sufficient cause for delay be shown.

For members joining after 1st July, the subscription fee will be 50% of the annual subscription.

Green fees, match fees, other charges and allowances shall be fixed annually by the committee and notified to members.

Every member shall furnish the Secretary with up-to-date contact details that shall be recorded in the Register of Members and any notice sent to such address/es either by post or electronically shall be deemed to have been duly delivered. An application for membership shall be in the form prescribed by the Committee and shall include the name, address and contact details of the candidate.

Every member, upon election and thereafter, is deemed to have notice of, and undertakes to comply with, the Club Rules and any Byelaws and Regulations of the Club.

We adopt and follow all policies and guidelines approved by Bowls England and UK Anti-Doping. We follow all procedures set out in Bowls England Regulation 9, 9A and 9B. We will abide with all sanctions, recommendations and/or decisions from the Case Management Panel or National Disciplinary Panel (Bowls England Regulation 2.5.2)

All disciplinary matters and Appeal procedures will be dealt with in accordance with Bowls England Regulation 9 (Misconduct). Should any member be expelled, the former member shall not be entitled to have any part of the annual membership fee refunded and must return any property belonging to the Club.

Members of visiting teams may be admitted to the club premises and enjoy all the privileges of membership.

Complaints of any nature shall be addressed in writing to the Secretary.

A member of any Club affiliated to Bowls England and English Bowling Federation (a list whereof is published annually) may be authorised to use the premises of the Club.

All references to the Club in this Section shall mean each and every individual member of the Club from time to time.

Members are bound by the following Rule which shall also be exhibited in a prominent place within the Club premises:

Members of the Club may use the Club premises, and any other facilities of the Club, entirely at their own risk and impliedly accept:

• The Club will not accept any liability for any damage to or loss of property belonging to members.
• The Club will not accept any liability for personal injury arising out of the use of the Club premises, any other facilities of the Club either sustained by members or caused by the said members whether or not such damage or injury could have been attributed to or was occasioned by the neglect, default or negligence of any of them, the Officers, Committee, Trustees or Servants of the Club.

Membership of the Club and acceptance of these Rules by the member will be deemed to constitute consent to the holding of relevant personal data for the purposes of the Data Protection Act.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

The Club financial year shall commence on 1st January.

The Club shall have bank accounts as necessary in the name of Cromer Marrams Bowls Club into which all money must be paid. All payments other than cash disbursements (less than £250), shall be paid by cheque from the Club’s Bank account and will require two authorised signatories (amounts over £500).

All Club accounts shall be submitted for audit at the end of the financial year.

MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

The Committee may consist of the Officers, ex officio, and not more than 2 male and 2 female Full Members (who have attained the age of eighteen years) elected at the Annual General Meeting to hold office for the term of their elected period. Candidates for election to the Committee shall be those members of the retiring Committee eligible to offer themselves for re-election and such other full members whose nominations (duly proposed and seconded in writing by Full members of the Club) with their consent shall have been received by the Secretary at least twenty-eight days before the date of the Annual General Meeting in each year. Such nominations, together with the names of the Proposer and Seconder shall be posted to the Club premises at least fourteen days prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting.

If the number of candidates for election is greater than the number of vacancies to be filled then there shall be a ballot of those members present and entitled to vote at the Annual General Meeting. If the number of candidates for election is equal to or less than the number of vacancies to be filled then all candidates shall be deemed to be elected if majority of those present at the Annual General Meeting, and entitled to vote, vote in favour of such election. In the event of the ballot failing to determine the members of the Committee because of an equality of votes, the candidate or candidates to be elected from those having an equal number of votes shall be determined by lot or previously nominated person. If, for any reason, a casual vacancy shall occur, the Committee may co-opt another person to fill such a vacancy until the next following Annual General Meeting.

The number of SOCIAL Members on the management committee must not exceed 25% of the whole committee.

Co‐opted Members will be entitled to vote.

The Committee shall endeavour to meet bimonthly making such arrangements as to the conduct, place of assembly and holding of such meetings as it may wish.

The Chairman will be chosen by the committee members at the first meeting following the AGM.

Voting shall be by show of hands. In the case of equality of votes the Chairman shall be entitled to a second and casting vote.

Six members personally present shall form a quorum at a meeting of the Committee. Any conflict of interest must be declared to the Chairman prior to the start of the meeting. The Chairman will determine if the person may remain in the meeting and/or vote when the item is discussed.

Powers of the Committee

The Committee shall manage the affairs of the Club according to the Rules and shall cause the funds of the Club to be applied solely to the objects of the Club. The Committee shall ensure that the property and funds of the Club will not be used for the direct or indirect private benefit of Members other than as reasonably allowed by the Rules. No surpluses or assets will be distributed to members or third parties and all surplus income or profits will be reinvested in the Club. The Committee may appoint such subcommittees as it may deem necessary and may delegate such of its powers as it may think fit upon such terms and conditions as shall be deemed expedient and/or required by the law. A member of the Committee, of a subcommittee or any member of the Club, in transacting business for the Club, shall disclose to third parties that they are so acting. The Committee, or any person or sub-committee delegated by the Committee to act as agent for the Club or its members, shall enter into contracts only as far as expressly authorised, or authorised by implication, by the Committee.

No one shall, without the express authority of the Committee, borrow money or incur debts on behalf of the Club or its membership. In pursuance of the authority vested in the Committee by members of the Club, members of the Committee are entitled to be indemnified by the members of the Club against any liabilities properly incurred by them or any one of them on behalf of the Club wherever the contract is of a duly authorised nature or could be assumed to be of a duly authorised nature and entered on behalf of the Club.

The Management Committee shall have the power to elect Honorary Life Members.

It is the responsibility of the Management Committee to review and update the Club Constitution and Rules and ratify any changes at a committee meeting and inform the membership.

TRUSTEES

There shall be a minimum of 2 Trustees of the Club who shall be appointed from time to time as necessary by the Committee of the Club from among Full, Social or Honorary Members who are willing to be so appointed. A Trustee shall hold office for a maximum term of 10 years, or until they resign by notice in writing given to the Committee or until a resolution removing them from office be passed at a meeting of the Committee by a majority comprising two‐thirds of the members present and entitled to vote. All the property of the Club, including land and investments, shall be held by the Trustees for the time being, in their own names so far as it is necessary and practicable, on trust for the use and benefit of the Club.

In the event of the death, resignation, or removal from office of a Trustee, the Committee shall nominate a new Trustee (which can be the retiring trustee if they wish to serve a further term) in their place, and shall as soon as possible thereafter take all lawful and practicable steps to procure the vesting of all Club property into the names of the Trustees as constituted after such nomination. For the purpose of giving effect to any such nomination, the Management Secretary for the time being is hereby nominated as the person to appoint new Trustees of the Club within the meaning of Section 36 of the Trustee Act 1925 and they shall by Deed duly appoint the person or persons so nominated by the Committee.

The Trustees shall in all respects act, in regard to any property of the Club held by them, in accordance with the directions of the Committee and shall have power to sell, lease, mortgage or pledge any Club property so held for the purpose of raising or borrowing money for the benefit of the Club in compliance with the Committee’s directions (which shall be duly recorded in the Minutes of the proceedings of the Committee) but no purchaser, lessee or mortgagee shall be concerned to enquire whether any such direction has been given.

The Trustees shall be effectually indemnified by the members of the Club out of the assets of the Club from and against any liability, costs, expenses and payments whatsoever which may be properly incurred or made by them in the exercise of their duties or relation to any property of the Club vested in them, or in relation to any legal proceedings, or which otherwise relate directly or indirectly to the performance of the functions of a Trustee of the Club.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

An Annual General Meeting of the Club shall be held each year in the month of October on a date to be fixed by the Committee. The Secretary shall, at least fourteen days before the date of such meeting, give notice to each member hereof and of the business to be brought forward thereat. This shall be posted electronically or on the club noticeboard. No business, except the passing of the Accounts and the election of the Officers, Committee, Trustees and Honorary Auditors, and any business that the Committee may order to be inserted in the notice convening the meeting shall be discussed at such meeting unless notice thereof be given in writing by a member entitled to vote to the Secretary at least 28 days before the date of the Annual General Meeting. The Committee may at any time, upon giving twenty-one days’ notice in writing, call a Special General Meeting of the Club for any special business, the nature of which shall be stated in the summons convening the meeting, and the discussion at such meeting shall be confined to the business stated in the notice sent to members.

The Committee shall call a Special General Meeting upon a written request addressed to the Secretary signed by at least 15 members. The Committee shall meet within 7 days of the requisite number of requests in order to call a Special General Meeting. The Committee shall give twenty-one days’ notice in writing of any such Special General Meeting. The discussion at such meeting shall be confined to the business stated in the notice sent to members.

At every meeting of the Club the PRESIDENT will preside, or in their absence, a Chair elected by a majority of those present shall preside. 15 members entitled to vote at the relevant meeting and personally present shall form a quorum at any General Meeting of the Club. All Full Members are entitled to vote at any General Meeting of the Club. Voting, except upon the election of members of the Committee, shall be by show of hands. In the case of an equality of votes the Chairman (or other nominated person) shall have a second or casting vote, on any matter.

On any resolution properly put to a meeting of the Club relating to the creation, repeal or amendment of any Rule, Byelaw or Regulation of the Club such Rule, Byelaw or Regulation shall not be created, repealed or amended except by a majority vote of at least two‐thirds of those present and entitled to vote. [Provided that no such change shall jeopardise the Club’s status as a Community Amateur Sports Club within the meaning of the Finance Acts, or in any event alter its objects or winding‐up provisions].

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club Health and Safety Policy

Health and Safety Statement

1. Cromer Marrams Bowls Club recognises its responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and accompanying legislation to ensure the following To provide and maintain a safe Clubhouse and green, safe equipment and a safe environment for members and guests, particularly for volunteers working for the Club. To ensure hazards are identified and that there is a regular assessment of risks. To provide information, instruction and training as is necessary to ensure all can be assured of a safe and healthy working environment. To promote awareness of Health and Safety encouraging best practice. To ensure it takes appropriate protective and preventative measures. To ensure there is access to competent advice.
2. Organisation and Responsibilities Responsibility for ensuring that the Club complies with Health and Safety responsibilities is vested in the Club’s Management Committee which will arrange for an annual pre-season risk assessment in April to ensure appropriate measures are in place to eliminate/mitigate risk. In addition, the Club appoints one member, whose function is at any time to draw to the Committee’s attention any risks/hazards that may not have been properly identified or where the mitigation action may be insufficient.
3. The Risks As a small organisation, the Club does not employ full or even part time staff but Health and Safety law requires that where volunteers are used on a regular basis, (e.g. Secretary, Treasurer, Greens Staff) they should, for the purposes of the Act, be treated as employees, even if unpaid. The Club has identified the following principal areas where it needs to monitor closely risks associated with the work done by volunteers. Fire Trips/Fall Electricity – risk of fire and personal injury Chemicals/Fertilizers Use of machinery Food safety First aid Children and “Adults at Risk”.
4. Measures in Place to Mitigate Risk Fire: The Fire extinguisher is annually inspected and serviced by qualified personnel. Trips/Fall: At the beginning of each season the premises/greens are checked to ensure that potential hazards are appropriately marked and that any necessary warning signs are visible. An Accident Book is maintained in which all incidents are recorded. Electricity: Electrical installations and portable electrical equipment are subject to periodic inspection and testing. Chemicals/Fertilizers: Chemicals and Fertilizers are held securely under lock and key and, where appropriate, use is under the supervision of an individual who has been on a Pesticide Course and obtained PAI and PA6 certification. Use of Machinery: All machinery is kept fully maintained and regularly serviced. First time users of machinery are trained and initially supervised by experienced operators. Food Safety: Kitchen facilities are maintained to a high standard and meet legal requirements. Members are aware of Food Hygiene requirements. Catering is under the control of a holder of a Food Hygiene Certificate First Aid: The Club cannot necessarily from its own membership expect to have trained first aiders on hand. It provides, however, a first aid box, which is regularly checked, and displays information on how emergency assistance can be obtained. There is also a defibrillator situated on the outside wall of the clubhouse with clear signage. Children and “Adults at Risk”: The Club has a clearly publicised Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.
5. Record Keeping
6. Dissemination of Health and Safety Information A copy of this Health and Safety statement is available to the Club members. Members are asked to familiarise themselves with the content and if necessary to draw the attention of Committee members to any areas of concernCromer Marrams Bowls Club Code of Conduct

The aim of this Code of Conduct is to provide an enjoyable, comfortable, safe and rewarding environment for all people associated with the club. It applies equally to members and their guests, including players from other clubs visiting the club for social or other competitions.

Members, visitors and guests of the club have a right to:

be treated with fairness and respect;

participate in an environment free from all forms of harassment and discrimination;

have their privacy and confidentiality protected.

Members may submit their views or concerns to the Bowls Committee in person or in writing.

The Bowls Committee will investigate and deal with concerns in a timely manner. They will advise all concerned parties of their decision, which will close the matter.

It is expected that members and visitors of the club will at all times:

Be friendly, courteous and respectful towards other members, visitors and staff;

Respect team-mates, opponents, officials and the rules of the game;

Refrain from behaviour that would bring the game or the club into disrepute;

Refrain from behaviour that could offend or embarrass others;

Behave in non-violent and non-abusive ways;

Respect the positions of office bearers, committee members and volunteers of the club;

Treat the property and facilities of the club with respect;

Contribute positively to the sporting and social activities of the club.

Conduct is a matter of concern to all members – poor conduct has a negative impact, and can be harmful and destructive to the club.

It is the responsibility of all members to ensure that their behaviour is appropriate at all times.

If a member is offensive or abusive, responding in the same manner will also be considered a breach of the Code of Conduct. The only reasonable and acceptable response is to not engage in a negative behaviour. It is acceptable to report the concern/matter to the Bowls Committee to be investigated under breaches of the Code of Conduct.

Any member representing the club must not engage in conduct which is violent, aggressive, inappropriate or prejudicial to the interests of the club. A member representing the club, for the purposes of this rule, is defined as anyone who:

Is wearing club uniform or any items of uniform that identifies them as a member of the Club;

Represents the club in any bowls event;

Participates in any bowls event at our club or at another club, or attends such event(s) as a spectator.

Any member who has indicated his availability to represent the club in any organized competitions must play in the position(s) and team(s) they are selected in by the club’s selectors.

Bowlers will show respect to their team mates, and opponents, and play the game of bowls to the highest degree of sportsmanship and honesty.

Spectators on the surrounds of the green will conduct themselves in a manner that ensures that bowlers are not distracted.

Members, visitors and guests will ensure that the comfort of other patrons is not unreasonably disturbed.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club Equal Opportunity Policy

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club is committed to providing equal opportunity for staff, members and applicants for membership. It will ensure that no employee, job applicant or member will receive less favourable treatment than any other on the grounds of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, marital status, disability, trade union activity, political or religious belief, age, gender or sexual orientation.

These ideals will be pursued within the legal obligations of the relevant Government Act.

With special reference to junior members, our aim is to provide each child in our charge with the opportunity to fulfil their potential and to develop a positive image of themselves so that they become a valuable member of the club and of the community at large. This will be achieved through equal access to all activities at the club.

We recognise that all members and prospective members are different and have different needs.

Aims and Objectives

1. We do not discriminate against anyone, on the grounds of their, sex, race, colour, religion, nationality, gender, disability, age, ethnic or national origins. This is in line with the 1976 Race Relations Act and covers both direct and indirect indiscrimination.
2. We promote the principles of fairness and justice for all.
3. We ensure that all members and applicants for membership have equal access to the full range of opportunities provided by the club.
4. We constantly strive to remove any forms of indirect discrimination that may form barriers to progress within the club.
5. We ensure that all recruitment, employment, promotion and training systems are fair to all, and provide opportunities for everyone to achieve.
6. We challenge stereotyping and prejudice whenever it occurs.
7. We celebrate the cultural diversity of our community and show respect for all minority groups.
8. We are aware that prejudice and stereotyping is caused by low self-image and ignorance. Through positive experiences and support for each individual’s point of view, we aim to promote positive social attitudes and respect for all.

Members, visitors and guests will respect other patrons and will conduct themselves in a manner that will not cause offence.

Members, visitors and guests will consume alcohol responsibly and will accept any staff or licensee decision to discontinue the serving of alcohol without complaint.

There is strictly no eating and drinking on the green at any time.

Breaches of the Code of Conduct are to be reported to any member of the Bowls Committee. Any breach of the Code of Conduct will be resolved calmly, with honesty, dignity, and as far as possible confidentiality will be maintained.

Where and when required, the Bowls Committee or a Disciplinary Committee appointed by the Bowls Committee, has the right to make decisions, and enforce fair and appropriate measures, to resolve a breach of the Code of Conduct.

Any reported breach of the Code of Conduct will be investigated, discussed and dealt with by the Bowls Committee or by a Disciplinary Committee appointed by the Bowls Committee by imposing either a reprimand, suspension, or revoking of club membership in accordance with the Penalty Matrix adopted by the Bowls Committee. In the case of non-club members, the Bowls Committee may consider a ban from the club for a set period of time or for life.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club General Data Protection Policy

Policy to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club’s General Data Protection Regulations Policy sets out its commitment to protecting personal data and how we implement that commitment with regards to the collection and use of personal data. Cromer Marrams Bowls Club (the Club) is committed to ensuring that it complies with the General Data Protection Regulations principles, as listed below:

• Meet its legal obligations as laid down by the General Data Protection Regulations.
• Ensure that data is collected and used fairly and lawfully.
• Process personal data only in order to meet its operational needs or fulfil its legal requirements.
• Take steps to ensure that personal data is up to date and accurate.
• Establish appropriate retention periods for personal data.
• Provide members with access to their personal information upon request.
• Abide by Article 15, granting members the right to have their personal information erased.
• Provide adequate security measures to protect personal data.
• Ensure Computer Security Software is current.
• Ensure computers containing personnel information have their passwords changed on a regular basis.
• Ensure that a nominated member is responsible for data protection compliance and provides a point of contact for all data protection issues.
• Ensure that all members are made aware of good practice in data protection.
• Provide adequate training for all members responsible for personal data.
• Ensure that queries about data protection, internal and external to the Club, are dealt with effectively and promptly.
• Regularly review data protection procedures and guidelines within the Club.
• Ensure that everyone handling personal data knows where to find further guidance.

Data Protection

Personal Data is any data which may be used to identify, contact or locate a single person. The Club holds for all members their name, date of birth, address, postcode, home and mobile phone number, email address, gender and ethnicity. This information is held on personal computers by those club officials with the need to process such information, principally the Treasurer, Management Secretary, Fixture Secretary and League Captains. Names, phone numbers and addresses are made available to all members on the Club membership list. Where members have declared a disability, this information is also held electronically and in hard copy form. No financial information (e.g. Bank details) is held by the club although, if members have provided details of their Bank account, for the purposes of receiving BACS payments, that information is held within the Bank’s own system accessible only by authorised Officers.

Data Sharing

The only personal information shared is that relevant information required by other Bowling Associations or organisations to which the Club is affiliated, and is needed by those Associations or organisations in order that they can inform other affiliated members of, for example, selection for Association matches, participation in competitions, maintenance of a register of affiliated members for insurance and other benefit purposes.

Data Erasure

Anyone who has their personal date held by the Club has the right to access, view and erase this data. A subject Access Request (Article 15) grants every citizen the right to a copy of all their personal data held by the Club. Cromer Marrams Bowls Club will provide this information in an electronically transportable format usable by the individual requesting the information. The Right to be Forgotten (Article 16 &17) entitles individuals to have this data erased. The Club understands that failure to fulfil this entitlement will be a violation of GDPR and subject to penalties.

Data Breaches

In the event of a data breach posing any kind of threat to members personal information, the Club will inform the affected individuals within 72 hours.

Bowls England Trans and Gender Diverse Policy

Bowls is an inclusive sport, open to all who wish to be involved in any capacity and we encourage all trans and non-binary participants to take part. Whilst the physical demands of bowls are more modest than most sports, bowls is a gender-affected sport. As such, it is the responsibility of Bowls England to ensure that it provides a framework for fair competition and has due regard for the safety of all competitors, whilst also ensuring there is an opportunity for everyone to take part.

Legal framework

The policy outlined in this document ensure the following UK legislation is considered:

• Data Protection Act 2018
• Equality Act 2010
• Gender Recognition Act 2004

Definitions (Find more information, including a glossary of terms here.)

• Non-binary: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity does not sit comfortably with ‘man’ or ‘woman’.
• Trans: An umbrella term to describe people whose gender is not the same as, or does not sit comfortably with, the sex they were assigned at birth.

We commit to creating a safe and welcoming space for all players. We will ensure that all individuals will be able to take part in bowls without fear or harassment and that all club members and visitors will be able to enjoy our sport and feel comfortable in the environment it provides.

All members of Bowls England affiliated clubs must:

• Treat all trans and non-binary members with respect.
• Welcome all trans and non-binary member as you would any other member.
• Accept all members in the gender they present. If you require verification of identity, it should be the same for all members.
• Respect the privacy of all members’ information, including their gender identity. This is protected in law.
• Take the lead from the member. Ask their name and if presented with a pronoun use them.
• Not make assumptions about any member’s gender identity or related characteristics or stereotypes attached to that gender.
• In line with the Government Equalities Office document ‘Providing services for transgender customers’ 2015, allow a trans person to select the facilities appropriate to the gender in which they present.
• Report any incidence of a breach of this policy to Bowls England.

Club membership and non-competitive activity

If an existing club member needs to change the gender already listed on the membership record, they will be required to notify us of a change of gender identity in line with the specified process, which will be recorded by Bowls England. A member’s gender identity cannot be changed mid-season, but we encourage members to socially transition and remain competing in the category they began the season competing in. Members can take part in any Bowls England sanctioned non-competitive activity in their self-identified gender. All members should be treated with respect at all times and if concerns are reported relating to the acceptance of trans and/or non-binary members in any activity, the matter should be referred to us in line with our Disciplinary Regulations.

Competitive activity

The Gender Recognition Act 2004 makes specific provision for sporting organisations to potentially prohibit or restrict a person with an acquired gender from competing in an event or events involving a gender-affected sport. A sport is a gender-affected sport if the physical strength, stamina or physique of average persons of one gender would put them at a disadvantage to average persons of the other gender as competitors in events involving the sport. The sport of bowls is a gender-affected sport.

Applications to compete in the women’s category:

Applications from any trans or non-binary member who seeks to compete in the women’s category shall be required to comply with the stipulations outlined below.

International competition (defined as any event where Bowls England is represented at international level including but not limited to Test Matches, British Isles, World Bowls and Commonwealth Games):

• Notify Bowls England of a change of gender identity in line with the specified process. The information will be recorded by Bowls England.
• This gender identity cannot be changed for a minimum of 4 years.
• Submit an attestation from a medical professional that the member’s total testosterone level in serum has been below 10 nmol/L for at least 12 months prior to the member’s first competition and must remain below 10 nmol/L whilst competing in the women’s category.

National competition and local competition (defined as any event that leads to world and/or British Isles and/or national and/or county and/or district and/or club finals; and any national, county and district leagues):

• Notify Bowls England of a change of gender identity in line with the specified process. The information will be recorded by Bowls England. The confirmation of change on gender identify will be shared with the County Association that the participants club is affiliated to.
• A member’s gender identity cannot be changed mid-season, but we encourage members to socially transition and remain competing in the category they began the season competing in.
• Submit an attestation from a medical professional that the member’s total testosterone level in serum has been below 10 nmol/L prior to the member’s first competition and must remain below 10 nmol/L whilst competing in the women’s category.

Other local, intra-club and friendly competition (defined as any event any other activity other than that described in ‘International Competition’ and ‘National Competition and local competition’):

• Notify Bowls England of a change of gender identity in line with the specified process. The information will be recorded by Bowls England.
• A member’s gender identity cannot be changed mid-season, but we encourage members to socially transition and remain competing in the category they began the season competing in.

Applications to compete in the men’s category:

Applications from any trans or non-binary member who seeks to compete in the men’s category shall be asked to comply with stipulations outlined below.

All competition:

• Notify Bowls England of a change of gender identity in line with the specified process. The information will be recorded by Bowls England.
• A member’s gender identity cannot be changed mid-season, but we encourage members to socially transition and remain competing in the category they began the season competing in.

Members under 18 years:

All under 18-year-old members for whom this policy is relevant may compete in a girls’, boys’, or mixed team, regardless of their sex assigned at birth. This includes any under 18 competing in over 18 competitions. The member’s gender identity must not be changed mid-season and a member is only permitted to enter competitions related to one gender.

Compliance

We will take appropriate measures for any breach of this policy in line with Bowls England disciplinary policies, procedures, and processes. All information will be collected and stored in accordance with GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.

Bowls England will monitor and regulate the sport to ensure:

• Fairness and integrity of competitions.
• Members compete in the category of competition for which they have satisfied the eligibility criteria set out in this policy.
• All members are compliant with this policy.
• No direct discrimination, indirect discrimination, harassment or victimisation is taken against a member on the grounds of their gender identity.
• Any other breach or non-compliance with this policy.

Process for notification

Notifications are to be made in writing to Bowls England.

Education and FAQs

We understand the importance of education as part of understanding and implementing this policy. Resources are available to support clubs, and both Bowls England and the Bowls Development Alliance can provide practical guidance and advice.

Endorsement and Review

This document is the approved Trans and Gender Diverse Policy. It will be trialled during the 2021 season and will be reviewed in the off-season taking on board any future research findings or changes in guidance from the Sports Council Equality Group.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club Welfare Policy

Policy Statement

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club believes that everyone involved in bowls should thrive, fare well and enjoy safety, security and protection from abuse, maltreatment or misconduct.

Every individual involved in Cromer Marrams Bowls Club is responsible for upholding this belief.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club also recognises that it has a responsibility to ensure the highest standard of care to all (including young people and/or vulnerable adults) involved in bowls.

This Welfare Policy is further enhanced by the Club’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (Section 1.2). Welfare Policy The ‘golden rule’ for all involved in bowls in relation to welfare and protection is that it is not your responsibility to judge whether or not a welfare violation has taken place but it is your responsibility to act on any concerns you may have.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club will:

Accept the moral and legal responsibility to implement procedures to provide a duty of care for all people (including young adults) within the sport, safeguard their well-being and protect them from abuse.

Respect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of people taking part in bowls including young people, disabled and/or vulnerable adults.

Recruit, train and supervise volunteers to adopt best practice in all equality issues, to safeguard and protect young people from abuse, and themselves against false allegations.

Require coaches/volunteers to adopt and abide by the welfare policy and procedures, codes of conduct and investigatory, grievance, disciplinary and appeal procedures.

Respond to any allegations appropriately and implement the appropriate disciplinary and appeals procedures.

Principles Safety– The welfare of the bowler will always be paramount. Equality – The right of everyone involved in bowls to equitable treatment, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, ability, sexual orientation or social background, will be upheld. Responsiveness – All allegations or suspicions of abuse or violations of bowler welfare will be taken seriously and acted upon appropriately and speedily. Those found to be spreading malicious or false allegations will be disciplined according to the relevant procedures.

Consent – Those with parental responsibility will be consulted if it becomes necessary to invoke the procedures that accompany ‘Bowls Welfare’ Fairness – The human rights of coaches or volunteers facing allegations will be embodied in disciplinary and appeals procedures.

Lawn Bowling Etiquette

(It’s Just Good Manners)

Lawn Bowling etiquette is about good sportsmanship, common sense and good manners, and, although some items are, most are not specifically covered in the ‘Laws of the Sport’. This guidance may be very useful for newcomers to the sport, but not exclusively to this category for many bowlers of long experience sometimes fall into ‘bad habits’, perhaps not being aware of doing so, and therefore these notes would be useful for them too.

We play the sport for enjoyment, for the pleasure of pitting our skills against others, in friendly competition, and our sport has a long tradition for its common courtesy and etiquette. Here follow a few points for your consideration:

Be punctual for your game, being late could be considered disrespectful to your opponents, and if in a team game, to your own colleagues too, and being rushed before an important game puts you at a disadvantage. Ensure you have dressed appropriately for the game you are about to play.

Introduce yourselves to your opponents by your first names, and exchange handshakes before the game, with perhaps a friendly comment such as ‘Enjoy your game’, or even ‘Have a good game’.

During the game, whilst at the ‘mat end’ do not move about and make disturbing noises whilst an opponent is on the mat, nor stand in a position where you might be in your opponent’s line of vision, or in sunny conditions allow your shadow to cause a distraction to the bowler. (The Laws of the Sport say a player should stand at least 1 metre behind the mat. 36.1.1)

During the game, whilst at the ‘head end’ when an opponent is on the mat to deliver a bowl: 

• Do not move about in or near the ‘head’ as it can be a distraction to the one about to bowl. 
• Stand well behind the ‘head’ when your opponent is on the mat.
• In sunny conditions avoid allowing your shadow to cover the jack.
• Avoid obscuring rink centre or boundary markers.

Once your bowl has stopped, you must relinquish the mat to the opposition and no further discussion can take place with your Skip until you next are back on the mat.

After delivering your bowl, and it coming to rest, there are only 2 places you should be – behind the mat or behind the head. Not anywhere in between or stepping off onto an adjacent rink (unused or not). As soon as your bowl has come to rest your opponent is entitled to deliver a bowl immediately – not wait for you to get out of the way.

At the conclusion of each end, unless you are the player responsible for measuring and agreeing shots scored, keep well away from the ‘head’ and do not under any circumstances ‘kick away’ or otherwise move any bowls in the head until the score has been clearly declared.

Compliment your opponents, as well as your own colleagues, for a well-delivered bowl. In the event of your opponent having a ‘lucky’ result, do not make any derogatory comments, although you might think them. Better to say nothing in this situation. If one of your own players has a ‘lucky’ shot, please do not say ‘Well bowled’ because it was not well bowled, it was a fluke. Do not use offensive language or gestures.

Do not openly criticise the green, your own players, and more importantly your opponents. If you cannot say something positive it is better to say nothing. If there is a need for some critical comment make it in private, not openly in front of other players or spectators.

Pay attention to the game on your rink, it is very frustrating to your team-mates if they feel that you are not giving your full attention to the game by, for example, frequently leaving the green or chatting to players on another rink, or in these modern times, using a mobile telephone on the green during play. If you must carry a mobile phone whilst on the green make sure it is turned to silent so as not to disturb other players.

Treat the green you are playing on with respect, it is costly to maintain, and everyone should try to deliver their bowls without ‘digging them’ into the turf.

Be a gracious winner and a good loser. Shake your opponent’s and team mate’s hands afterward and thank them for the game. It is customary to go back into the club after a game and offer a drink to your opposite number. They should usually offer you one back.

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club Photography Policy

Introduction

All clubs need and welcome publicity. Photographs add colour, life and interest to articles promoting club activities and initiatives. Making use of photographs for publicity materials and to promote the club in the press can increase member motivation and help members, children’s parents, guardians or carers rights to privacy and be aware of potential child protection issues.

At Cromer Marrams Bowls Club every reasonable effort will be made to minimise risk by following the guidelines detailed in this document and by securing members or parental consent for the use of photographs.

This policy applies to the use of photographs and film footage in club publicity materials, on its website and in the press. This policy reflects the consensus of opinion of the committee of Cromer Marrams Bowls Club. Its implementation is the responsibility of all members.

Child Protection

There may be a risk when individual pupils can be identified in photographs. For that reason, the committee of Cromer Marrams Bowls Club has developed this policy to make every effort to minimise risk. In the event of the inappropriate use of pupil’s or pupils’ photographs ,the Safeguarding Officer will inform the local Child Protection Officer and Social Services and/or the Police.

Data Protection Act

Photographs and other images of members are classed as personal data under the terms of the Data Protection Act. Therefore, using such images for school publicity purposes requires the consent of either the individual concerned or in the case of pupils, their legal guardians. Cromer Marrams Bowls Club will not display images of members or pupils on websites, in publications or in a public place without such consent. The definition of a public place includes areas where visitors to the club have access. Where photographs are taken at an event attended by large crowds, this is regarded as a public area so it is not necessary to get permission of everyone in a crowd shot. The Data Protection Act does not apply to photographs or films taken for personal use by family and friends.

Appropriate Use of Images in Publicity Materials

Cromer Marrams Bowls Club will:

1. Ensure that images are stored securely and used only by those authorised to do so.
2. Secure parental consent for the use of pupil’s photographs/film footage.
3. Not use an image of any pupil who is the subject of a court order.
4. Without consent will not use photographs of pupils or members who have left the club.

Club Website

Using photographs on our club website is no different from using them in any other kind of publication or publicity material. However, the board of the club are aware of the potential risk of inappropriate use of images because of the lack of control over who might see the image and the wide extent of the misuse of the Internet by certain people.

The club will seek the consent of parents and/or guardians or those responsible for them regarding the use of images on the Internet prior to them being included.

Children’s names will not be included in photographs or published on the club’s website without the relevant approval.