Adults at Melrose Rugby are there to help to make sports safe and fun.

Players play a part in this as well by respecting other players/athletes and the people who are there to help them to learn.

Players should do this by:

• Being ready and on time for training and competition.

• Respecting the coach and other helpers.

• Accepting what the coach or match officials ask you to do in the rules of the game.

• Playing to the best of your ability

• Never swearing at or insulting anyone, including other players.

• Telling your parents or carers where you are, or if you are going to be late.

• Following advice from sport doctors or physios to keep you safe and injury free.

• Never bullying other players/athletes either yourself or in a group.

Bullying can happen between children, adults or between adults and children.

It means things like:

• Name calling

• Making fun at someone's expense.

• Giving only negative feedback

• Hitting

• Shoving

• Stealing

• Damaging belongings

• Spreading rumours

• Making threats

• Sending/posting nasty messages

• Leaving people out on purpose.

If you are worried about something don't keep it to yourself. Speak to an adult who you know and trust such as a parent, coach, teacher, the Child Protection Officer, a guidance teacher, doctors or school nurse.

If there isn't anyone you can talk to, you can contact Childline in Scotland on 0800 1111 or at childline.org.uk. It's free, private and confidential.