What is Safe Sport?

 

Safe Sport encompasses both physical and emotional safety, encompassing measures for concussion and injury prevention, as well as the creation of environments free from bullying, abuse, harassment, discrimination, and any other forms of maltreatment.

In today’s context, Safe Sport represents a shift towards a new standard, where practices once tolerated are now rightly deemed unacceptable. It is incumbent upon everyone to be aware of these changes and to align their personal conduct accordingly. Without embracing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) as fundamental principles, Safe Sport cannot be fully realized. By collectively fostering safe, inclusive, and inviting lawn bowling environments, we cultivate spaces where individuals feel valued and connected, fostering a sense of belonging.

“Creating bowls communities that are accessible for all and where everyone feels welcomed and finds a safe place to be themselves and to belong!” – David Wilson, Provincal  Safe Sport Officer (SSO)

Safe Sport Complaint Submission Information & Forms

**Please read carefully before submitting your report.**

For more information, please review the Bowls Alberta’s Complaint and Discipline Policy. If you have any questions or concerns prior to submission, please contact Bowls Alberta’s Safe Sport Officer, at sso@bowlsalberta.com or your club’s Safe Sport Officer 

Click Here

Safe Sport Strategy

The Safe Sport Strategy implemented by Bowls Alberta is dedicated to cultivating an environment where safety is paramount. Our policies and programs are meticulously crafted to establish a framework for swift, equitable, and judicious responses to any concerns that may arise. Moreover, we prioritize proactive measures aimed at preventing issues by effectively communicating the expected standards of behavior to all stakeholders.

Consistent Policies 

The Safe Sport Policy Suite is a full package of policies that set rules, procedures, and standards of behavior to help Bowls Alberta and its member clubs maintain a safe sport environment. 

Safe Sport Statement

 

Defines Safe Sport and outlines the organizations’ dedication to fostering secure sporting environments devoid of any maltreatment, accompanied by a comprehensive overview of the complete Safe Sport Suite.

Code of Conduct and Ethics

 

Clarifies fundamental terms and behaviors to guarantee a shared understanding of maltreatment, encompassing terms such as ‘maltreatment,’ ‘harassment,’ and power imbalances. Establishes clear expectations regarding the conduct that sports participants are required to follow.

Discipline and Complaints Policy

Establishes a systematic procedure for addressing and resolving complaints, taking into account the severity and nature of the complaint, as well as the involved parties. In certain cases, expensive third-party investigations may be necessary.

Incident Reporting Guidelines 

The Safe Sport Incident Reporting Guidelines are a clear and detailed framework established by Bowls Alberta to help participants recognize, document, and report any incidents that undermine the safety and integrity of our sport. This process ensures that all reports are handled efficiently, confidentially, and fairly, providing support to those affected and maintaining a respectful and secure environment for everyone involved.

 

Establishes a systematic procedure for addressing and resolving complaints, taking into account the severity and nature of the complaint, as well as the involved parties. In certain cases, expensive third-party investigations may be necessary.

Dispute Resolution Policy

 

Offers an alternative, less formal approach to address complaints, granting the involved parties some control over the resolution process. This method is the preferred way of resolving conflicts.

Appeals Policy

 

Details the procedure for disputing the resolution of a complaint and/or specific decisions made by the organization.

Reciprocation Policy

 

 Establishes the agreement and outlines the steps for sharing disciplinary decisions among Bowls Alberta, Member Clubs, and other stakeholders in both our own sport and other sports.

Screening Policy

Screening Requirements Matrix -Appendix-A

Application and Screening Disclosure Form – Appendix-B

Screening Disclosure Form- Appendix-C

Request for Vulnerable Sector Check -Appendix-D

 

The screening of volunteers is a crucial measure in ensuring secure sporting environments. This policy delineates the risk levels associated with volunteers in different positions and outlines the requirements and procedures for screening each volunteer. The Appendices encompass a Screening and Training matrix, along with screening forms.

Athlete Protection Guidelines

 

Sets expectations of behaviour for Persons in Authority; discusses how we will protect our athletes, especially when it comes to practices/training, travelling, communicating, and any physical contact.

Responsible Coaching Movement Implementation Strategy

 

   Bowls Alberta has taken the Responsible Coaching Pledge and encourages all its member clubs to do the same. Ensuring we protect our underaged and vulnerable participants is a priority.

Concussion Policy and Return to Play Protocols 

Concussion Education 

 

  All sport associations are required to have a Concussion Policy in place. The Protocols will help any coach and/or an
  individual member that may come to our sport and are recovering from a concussion. 

Emergency Action Plan – TBA

 Weather Protocols / Air Quality Protocols -TBA

 

  Environment Canada gives direction for minimizing risks during lightning storms, hot, humid weather, and for poor air
  quality.

Appendix A of the Safe Sport Manual: Definitions 

 

Universal Code of Conduct for the Prevention of Maltreatment (UCCMS Version 6.0)

Screening Information 

If you can always upload requirments into Sideline Learning or email them to sso@bowlsalberta.com

 

 

Safe Sport Training 

Recommended – All Athletes

Required – Board of Directors, Coaches, Employees & Officials

The Respect in Sport Activity Leader / Coach Program educates leaders, coaches, officials and participants (14 years and up) to recognize, understand and respond to issues of bullying, abuse , harassment and discrimination.  

 

Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders 

 

The Coaching Association of Canada’s (CAC) Safe Sport Training was developed to help anyone involved in sport — whether you have direct contact with athletes or work in the background — to promote physical, psychological, and social health, in line with the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport. Click Here 

Other Training 

At Bowls Alberta, we prioritize Safe Sport Engagement by nurturing an active conversation between our club and participants.

Our dedication lies in maintaining regular communication with everyone involved, from coaches and athletes to parents/guardians of minor athletes, officials, volunteers, and other stakeholders. This continuous interaction serves to collect valuable insights, allowing us to integrate your firsthand experiences into the enhancement of our policies, training programs, and various initiatives

     

    How to Intervene Safely as a Bystander

    At Bowls Alberta, our commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment is central to everything we do. As a member of our community, you play a crucial role in helping us uphold these values. By stepping in when you witness harmful behavior, you protect both individuals and the integrity of the sport we all love.

    We invite you to become an active participant in ensuring our sport remains respectful and welcoming for all. Here’s how you can safely intervene as a bystander:

    The Five D’s of Bystander Intervention:

    • Distract: Defuse a harmful situation by creating a diversion.
    • Delegate: Get someone in authority, like a coach or umpire, to step in.
    • Document: Take notes if needed and report to the appropriate parties.
    • Direct: Calmly and respectfully address inappropriate behavior.
    • Delay: If you can’t act immediately, offer support to the person involved afterward.

    Join Us in Creating a Safe, Welcoming Lawn Bowling Community!

    By following the Five D’s and intervening when you see harassment, bullying, or misconduct, you directly support Bowls Alberta’s mission to advance the sport and promote a positive community. Let’s work together to keep our clubs safe, inclusive, and supportive for all.

    Take action today. Help us ensure a better environment for everyone on and off the greens.

    Download Resource

    How to Handle Conflict the Right Way: Join Us in Creating a Positive Lawn Bowls Community!

    At Bowls Alberta, we understand that conflict is a natural part of any organization. When managed constructively, it can pave the way for growth, collaboration, and a stronger community. Our guide, How to Handle Conflict the Right Way, offers practical strategies to address disagreements while promoting respect, open communication, and teamwork.

    Discover how you can help foster an inclusive, welcoming environment where everyone thrives—on and off the green.

    Download Resource

    Conducting Difficult Conversations

    Difficult conversations are inevitable in any organization, including sports communities like Bowls Alberta. Handling them effectively can strengthen relationships, build trust, and foster a more inclusive and positive environment.

    Call to Action: Strengthen Your Team with Open Communication

    Are you ready to transform conflict into opportunity? Learn how to engage in difficult conversations with confidence, empathy, and purpose. Whether you’re addressing a misunderstanding or seeking to improve team performance, our framework will guide you through every step of the process.

    Take Action Now
    Start building trust, fostering collaboration, and promoting growth within your team. Explore our proven methods and make a positive change today!

    Download Resource

    Active Engagement

    At Bowls Alberta, fostering intentional engagement is paramount. We strive for a dynamic dialogue between our organization and all members, fostering an environment where feedback flows freely.

    Our commitment is to actively engage with participants, coaches, athletes, parents or guardians of minor athletes, officials, volunteers, and stakeholders alike. Through consistent interaction, we aim to gather valuable insights that inform our policies, training programs, and initiatives.

    Your firsthand experiences provide invaluable perspectives, helping us gauge the effectiveness of our efforts on the ground.

    Should you have any feedback, comments, or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to the Provincial Safe Sport Officer at sso@bowlsalberta.com.

    Accessible Resources

    Empowering our community with knowledge and awareness is a top priority. Bowls Alberta offers a wealth of accessible resources aimed at promoting safe sport practices, good governance, and fostering Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).

    These resources are readily available to all, ensuring that everyone has the tools they need to contribute to a safe and inclusive environment.

    Safe Sport Blog Post

    Support 

    Mental Health Support

    1. Crisis Services Canada
      • Website: Crisis Services Canada
      • Phone: 1-833-456-4566
      • Text: 45645 (available from 4 PM to 12 AM Eastern Time)
      • Offers support for individuals experiencing mental health crises.
    2. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
      • Website: CMHA
      • Phone: Various local branches across Canada
      • Provides mental health resources, support, and information.
    3. MindYourMind
      • Website: MindYourMind
      • Phone: N/A (Online support and resources)
      • Offers mental health resources and support for youth and young adults.

    Support for Children and Youth

    1. Kids Help Phone
      • Website: Kids Help Phone
      • Phone: 1-800-668-6868
      • Text: 686868 (available 24/7)
      • Provides confidential counseling, crisis support, and resources for children and youth.
    2. The Centre for Suicide Prevention
      • Website: Centre for Suicide Prevention
      • Phone: 1-833-456-4566 (Crisis Services Canada)
      • Offers resources and support for suicide prevention and mental health.
    3. Youth Mental Health Canada

    In Canada, several hotlines and support services are available for people involved in sports to address issues related to safe sport, including harassment, abuse, and misconduct. Here are some key resources:

    1. Sport Canada’s Safe Sport Helpline
    2. Canadian Sport Helpline
      • Website: Canadian Sport Helpline
      • Phone: 1-888-83-SPORT (1-888-837-7678)
      • Offers confidential support and information for athletes and individuals involved in sport.
    3. Canadian Centre for Child Protection – Kids Help Phone
      • Website: Kids Help Phone
      • Phone: 1-800-668-6868
      • Provides support for children and youth, including those involved in sports, with issues of abuse and mental health.
    4. Athlete Assistance Program (AAP)
      • Website: Athlete Assistance Program
      • Provides financial support and services, and may have resources related to safe sport concerns.
    5. Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP)
      • Website: Canadian Anti-Doping Program
      • Phone: 1-877-403-2230
      • While primarily focused on doping, CADP can offer support and guidance related to ethical issues in sports.

    These resources can offer confidential support, guidance, and assistance in addressing and resolving issues related to safe sport.