Purpose

Blythe Cricket Club (the “Club”) is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment where everyone has the right to play, volunteer, and enjoy cricket regardless of age, gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or socio-economic background.

This policy sets out our approach to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in line with ECB guidance and the Equality Act 2010.

 

Policy Statement

• We are committed to ensuring cricket at The club is accessible to all, free from discrimination, harassment, or victimisation.

• All members, volunteers, staff, and visitors must respect and uphold the principles of fairness, dignity, and inclusion.

• We will take positive action to increase participation among under-represented groups, especially women, girls, juniors, and people with disabilities.

• Discrimination or harassment of any kind will be dealt with under the Club’s Disciplinary Policy.

 

Scope

This policy applies to:

• Players (junior and senior)

• Parents and guardians

• Coaches, volunteers, umpires, scorers, and officials

• Committee members and sponsors

• Visitors and spectators at the clubs facilities

 

Our Commitments

1. Access & Participation

• Provide affordable membership options and concessionary rates for juniors, students, and families.

• Actively recruit and support women, girls, and under-represented groups into playing, coaching, and volunteering.

• Offer disability-inclusive sessions where possible, in line with ECB guidance.

2. Respect & Behaviour

• All members are expected to adhere to the Club Codes of Conduct (players, parents, coaches, volunteers).

• Language or behaviour that discriminates, intimidates, or excludes others is not tolerated.

• We promote a zero-tolerance approach to racism, sexism, homophobia, ableism, bullying, or harassment.

3. Representation

• Strive for diversity across our Executive Committee and Sub-Committees.

• Ensure decision-making reflects the voices of juniors, women, parents, and volunteers.

• Engage with local schools, community groups, and faith organisations to widen representation.

4. Education & Training

• Ensure all coaches and volunteers complete ECB Safe Hands Safeguarding Training and DBS vetting.

• Provide access to Equality & Diversity training where required.

• Promote awareness campaigns around mental health, wellbeing, and inclusive sport.

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Responsibilities

• Executive Committee: Accountable for implementing and monitoring this policy.

• Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO): Ensures safeguarding overlaps with equality and inclusion.

• Captains & Coaches: Role models for inclusive behaviours on and off the field.

• All Members & Parents: Expected to support and uphold the principles of this policy.

 

Complaints & Breaches

• Any member experiencing or witnessing discrimination or harassment should report it to the Club Safeguarding Officer or any Committee member.

• Complaints will be handled confidentially, investigated promptly, and resolved in line with the Club’s Disciplinary Policy.

• Serious breaches may result in suspension, removal of membership, or referral to ECB, County Board, or authorities.

 

Monitoring & Review

• The Club will monitor diversity of membership, coaching workforce, and committee representation.

• Progress will be reviewed annually at the AGM and actions identified for improvement.

 

Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Executive Committee, updated in line with ECB guidance and safeguarding best practice, publicly available on the Club’s website.