Version: November 2024
1.Purpose and Scope
This Code of Conduct establishes guidelines for all representatives of Shelbourne Football Club (the Club), including full-time and part-time staff, coaches, volunteers, and other affiliates. The Code promotes a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment aligned with the Club’s values and commitment to excellence, integrity, and fairness.
2.Respect and Integrity
- Treat all individuals with respect, fairness, and dignity, regardless of role, background, or status within the Club.
- Maintain honesty, transparency, and confidentiality in all interactions and communications with Club members, fans, and the wider community.
- Avoid conflicts of interest and promptly disclose any situations that may be perceived as such.
3.Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
- Promote and support a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly, with respect and without discrimination.
- Challenge and report any discriminatory behaviour, harassment, or bullying, whether based on age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic.
- Encourage an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and included, and ensure Club activities are accessible and accommodating to all.
4.Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Individuals
- Prioritise the safety and well-being of minors and vulnerable individuals in all Club activities, adhering strictly to the Club’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
- Understand and follow the Club’s guidelines on appropriate behaviour, ensuring that minors and vulnerable individuals are protected from harm, abuse, or exploitation.
- Report any concerns or suspicions about the welfare of a minor or vulnerable individual to the designated safeguarding officer immediately.
- Those working with minors must complete Garda Vetting and any required training on safeguarding.
- Coaches and staff should not engage directly with minors through social media or other communications media.
5.Professionalism and Responsibility
- Uphold high standards of professionalism, accountability, and punctuality in the performance of duties.
- Adhere to all Club policies, procedures, and regulations, including those related to health, safety, and data protection.
- Take responsibility for personal conduct and actions, ensuring they always reflect positively on the Club.
- Respect the privacy and dignity of players, particularly in relation to entering dressing rooms.
- Coaches and others in positions of authority must avoid inappropriate social contacts and relationships with players.
6.Commitment to a Safe and Inclusive Environment
- Foster an atmosphere free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying, where all participants feel safe and respected.
- Support a culture that respects diversity and values contributions from all backgrounds, ensuring that Club activities promote inclusivity and positive engagement.
- Report any instances of inappropriate behaviour, harassment, or discrimination to the designated Club officials without delay.
7.Respect for the League and Commercial Sponsors
- Act as ambassadors of the Club, showing respect for the League of Ireland (LOI), its clubs, and officials, promoting positive relationships with all stakeholders.
- Acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of commercial sponsors, treating them with respect and promoting a professional image on their behalf.
- Represent the Club positively in all public and professional interactions, ensuring that the reputation of the Club, the LOI, and sponsors is upheld.
8.Health, Safety, and Well-being
- Prioritise the safety and well-being of all individuals associated with the Club by adhering to Club health and safety protocols.
- Promote a culture of well-being, where individuals feel supported to seek assistance or report concerns without fear of reprisal.
- Be familiar with emergency procedures and act appropriately to protect the safety of others.
9.Respect for Facilities and Equipment
- Use Club facilities and equipment responsibly, ensuring they are kept in good condition and are returned after use.
- Report any damage or misuse of facilities or equipment to the appropriate Club personnel.
- Maintain a clean and tidy environment by respecting shared spaces and taking care of Club resources.
10.Social Media and Public Representation
- Represent the Club with professionalism in all public and online interactions, avoiding statements that could damage the Club’s reputation.
- Use personal social media responsibly, recognising that public comments can reflect on the Club.
- Obtain prior permission before sharing official Club information or making public statements on behalf of the Club.
11.Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment
- Refrain from any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying, whether directed at other Club representatives, players, fans, or members of the public.
- Ensure that all interactions and communications are respectful and free from derogatory language or behaviour.
- Report any violations of this policy to Club officials, understanding that the Club has a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and harassment.
12.Commitment to Fair Play and Sportsmanship
- Uphold the principles of fair play, integrity, and sportsmanship in all Club-related activities.
- Foster an environment where winning is valued, but not at the expense of respect, integrity, or the enjoyment of all participants.
- Model positive behaviour, avoiding actions that could lead to an unfair advantage or compromise the integrity of the sport.
- Demonstrate good behaviour by not using foul language, and by not engaging in abusive language or deeds or by harassing participants, supporters, coaches, or referees/ officials.
13.Gambling and Prohibited Activities
- Adhere to Club policies prohibiting gambling on football matches, particularly those involving the Club, and avoid situations that could lead to a conflict of interest.
- Refrain from participating in, or promoting, any gambling activities in relation to Club events, players, or competitions.
- Understand and respect any legal regulations regarding gambling and always ensure compliance.
14.Alcohol, Drugs, and Prohibited Substances
- Follow Club policies regarding alcohol and drugs, understanding that the use of these substances is prohibited while on Club premises or during Club activities.
- Avoid attending Club events or activities while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Report concerns regarding substance misuse to a Club official for appropriate action.
15.Tolka Park and Residents
The Club acknowledges that Tolka Park is situated in a residential area and requests that all Club stakeholders show respect for our neighbours. To maintain positive community relations, the Club will make reasonable efforts to:
- Minimise traffic disruptions.
- Maintain noise levels within acceptable limits.
- Reduce light spill effects to acceptable standards.
We encourage stakeholders to use public transport or bicycles whenever possible. For those who travel by car, please ensure road laws and parking regulations are respected.
16.Compliance and Disciplinary Action
- Understand that failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or termination of duties.
- Seek guidance from Club officials if there are questions or concerns regarding the Code.
- Report any violations of this Code through appropriate reporting channels within Shelbourne FC.