WELCOME PACK 

CONTENTS

• · Welcome message
• · Dress code
• · Etiquette
• · Coaching
• · Bowling activities
• · Playing times

Welcome Message

The committee would like to welcome you to the only flat bowling green in the Borough of Dudley.

We are a friendly club open to players of all ages and abilities from complete novice to county level and beyond.

We sincerely hope you will enjoy the game of flat green bowls whether for competitive play or purely for enjoyment and exercise.

Smoking is not allowed at any time in the pavilion or on the green.

Dress Code

Flat soled shoes (without heels) must be worn at all times on the green preferably separate from everyday outdoor shoes.

For roll-ups and general play, dress code is smart casual.

For friendly matches and competitions dress should be club shirt with grey or white trousers or skirt. Crop trousers and tailored shorts are also acceptable.

Club Etiquette

Lawn bowls is a courteous game and courtesy  towards one’s team mates and opponents is to be maintained at all times.

In addition to the rules, a certain amount of etiquette is followed. Etiquette refers to the way in which we play the game to ensure the enjoyment for everyone so that all have the chance to play their best. (See separate document).

The etiquette guidelines offered should be noted by beginners and experienced bowlers alike. They are all based on common courtesy which will make them easier to remember.

See hand book for more details.

Coaching

The club offers free coaching sessions to existing members.

Non members wishing to try lawn bowls are offered three free coaching sessions before any commitment to join.

Coaching bowls are available and coaching sessions can be arranged at any time.  (see playing times)

Club coaches:

Trevor Billington  Tel.   01562 885235



Paul Grainger        Tel.  07969795429

Bowling Activities

              See session times

Rinks are generally available at all times. However, outside of roll-up sessions access to the green requires a set of keys. (or contact the club secretary Paul Grainger).

All members of the club are responsible for ensuring that jacks, mats, bowls, pushers and scoreboards are returned to their rightful place at the end of play and that all relevant buildings and gates are securely locked after use.

For formal activities see club handbook.

Playing Times

Monday              2.00pm to close.

Tuesday              2.00pm to 5.00pm (Club Roll up).

Wednesday       2.00pm to close. (Club Roll up).

Thursday           2.00pm to close.

Friday                 2.00pm to 5.00pm.

Saturday           2.00pm to 6.00pm.

Sunday               Closed.

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CLUB HANDBOOK

CONTENTS

•   Introduction
•   Management
•   The Game
•   Procedures and Etiquette
•   Bowling activities
•   Matches and Competitions
•   Complaints procedure general
•   Complaints procedure matches
•   Code of conduct - Coaches
•   Code of conduct - Club members
•   Safeguarding and child protection
•   Safeguarding adults at risk
•   Privacy policy

Introduction

This booklet has been produced to provide members, particularly those new to the Club, with information about how Wollescote Hall Bowls Club (Herein after called the Club) operates, what happens at the club, where information is located, who to speak to and what they can do to help the Club as it moves forward.

The aim of this booklet is to help new members settle down quickly and enjoy their time at the Club. The Club administration is managed by volunteers who willingly give their time to ensure the smooth running of the club. All offers of help will be gratefully received

As with any organisation, procedures

change over time, so this booklet will be up dated periodically to reflect those changes.

    IF IN DOUBT ABOUT ANYTHING                                           

    PLEASE SPEAK DIRECTLY TO ANY

    MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE.

The names of Committee Members

are shown on your copy of the Fixtures Card.

It is hoped members will find reading this booklet interesting and worthwhile. Any constructive comments to enable us to improve this booklet would be welcome and can be advised to any Committee Member.

.
Management of Wollescote Hall Bowls Club

 Committee

Your committee is responsible for the activities at the club and meets regularly through the outdoor bowls season and less regularly during the close season.

It is chaired by the Chairman, and comprises the Secretary, Treasurer, Captain and a minimum of three club members.

 Volunteers

Each committee member is expected to carry out an allocated duty on a voluntary basis. The committee can also ask any other member to help the Club with a voluntary duty, especially if they have an expertise that the Club needs at any given time.

 Communications

The club aims to ensure that members are kept fully aware of events being held, how the club is faring financially, and future activities.

The Secretary will issue a newsletter to members periodically, to ensure they know what is happening in the Club.

The Treasurer submits an up to date financial statement at every committee meeting. This is also available to any member on request.

 Membership

Subscriptions are reviewed annually by the Committee and are required to be paid in full at or within one month of the date of the Pre-Summer season Meeting.

The subscription is made up of two items. The first is the Associate Membership fee that all have to pay to the Club. This entitles you to play bowls or any other activity provided by WHBC. The second is a fee to the bowls club to cover the affiliation fees to Worcestershire Bowling Association.

For the first year of membership a reduced membership fee will be levied. (to be determined annually).   

THE GAME OF BOWLS

Always arrive in good time.

Before a match the Captain will normally stand on the green and hand out the score cards to the skips of each rink after calling out the names. You should then make your way to the appropriate rink. You should then shake hands with everybody on both teams wishing them good luck for the match ahead.

It should be noted that the person standing on the mat and their skip have possession of the rink from the moment that the previous wood came to rest until their own wood comes to rest. Once the wood has come to rest possession of the mat transfers to the opposing team. When you are not in possession of the rink you must retire away from the head.

The role of the lead is to deliver the jack to the length requested by the skip and then to deliver their bowl to rest as close as possible to the jack.

The number 2’s follow suit by delivering their bowls as close to the jack as possible unless the skip asks them to do something else. They will normally also record the score on the scorecard.

The number 3’s (if playing fours) will be asked by the skip to either continue to build the head, play defensive bowls to cover positions where if the jack is moved the opponents could score many shots or to play attacking shots to either remove opposition bowls or move the jack.

The skips will play similar shots to the number 2 or 3 carrying the ultimate responsibility for the result of each end as they play the last bowls.

Once all the bowls have been delivered the number 2 or 3 with their opposite number will determine how many shots are to be awarded to the team whose bowl was closest to the jack.

If the bowls are a similar distance from the jack then the person who challenges the number of shots requested by the opposition will measure the distance between the jack and the bowls.

No bowls are to be disturbed until these people have agreed the number of shots and they will then communicate the score to their skips.

No other players are to become involved in the measuring process and must stand away from the head and not comment.

As soon as the score has been decided the lead who will deliver the jack is expected to place the mat as quickly as possible.

The other lead is expected to use the bowls gatherer to collect the bowls and place them behind the mat. If the bowls gatherer is not used the members of the team will push the bowls back using their feet.

 WOLLESCOTE HALL BOWLS CLUB – PROCEDURES AND ETIQUETTE

 GENERAL:

• Do support your club and put your name down on availability lists or unavailable lists. (If unsure how to do this please refer to Club Captain or committee member).
• Selection to play is at the discretion of the Club Captain, however it is usually done on a first come first served basis.
• If you have to withdraw, please notify the Captain at the earliest opportunity.
• Do play your part in assisting with the smooth running of the Club and offer to help with getting equipment ready and/or catering when necessary.

FOR BOWLERS AND SPECTATORS:

• Do not distract bowlers who are bowling towards you by moving or walking across the end of the rink. Wait until the bowl has been delivered, then move.
• Any game that involves players being a great distance apart requires some skill in the art of communication, bowls is no exception. The smooth running of the game requires players to communicate effectively over the length of the rink. This is done generally by hand signals (distance in front or behind jack, shot bowl, number of shots up or down) and shouted instructions. However, shouting should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing other bowlers.
• Do not interrupt other players when they are on the green, particularly during competitive matches. If you need to speak to players, it should be before or after their game.
• Bad language shall not be addressed to fellow members or visitors at any time, nor any adverse comments made about their skill voiced in public. Everyone can have a bad day!
• Smoking and vaping are not permitted in the clubhouse, changing rooms or ON the green.
• Respect and protect the green – the Club’s most important asset.

BEFORE THE GAME:

• Make sure you know the rules of the game or competition you are playing.
• Know the correct dress (it will differ for different venues and competitions).
• Do not arrive in bowling shoes as you may carry harmful fungus on the soles of your shoes.
• Be early enough to be able to welcome visitors and help get things out on the green and to ensure that jacks, mats, scoreboards and other equipment are in place ready for the start of the game.

DURING THE GAME:

• Enter and leave the green by your rink number and use the footpaths – do not walk across the green.
• Do not DROP your bowls on the green.
• When you walk to the other end, move in the centre of the rink and do it quickly enough to maintain the continuity of the game. Do not ‘trespass’ on to other rinks in play.
• If you have to leave the rink for any reason during the game, alert your team-mates/opponents, and do not delay the game any longer than necessary.
• Never complain about any green, including your own!

‘POSSESSION OF THE RINK’ MUST ALWAYS BE RESPECTED:

• ‘Possession of the rink shall belong to the team whose bowl is being played. The players in possession of the rink……shall not be interfered with, annoyed, or have their attention distracted in any way by their opponents.
• Stand well behind the mat or head, keeping still and quiet while others are delivering their bowls.
• Questions, information or instructions should only be exchanged while you have ‘possession of the rink’ – as soon as your bowl comes to rest, ‘possession of the rink’ is transferred to the opposing player or team.
• Encourage, rather than criticize – no one delivers a bad bowl intentionally.
• Commend good shots and learn to accept lucky shots, both for and against you – they will balance out in the long run.

POSITIONS:

• When at the head, bear in mind that some bowlers like a clear view of the rink markers. Stand behind the head, inside the rink markers, but not obscuring the central or width of rink markers.
• Players at the mat- end of the rink who are not delivering a bowl should stand at least one metre behind the mat.

RESPONSIBILTIES DURING THE GAME:

• The captain has sole charge of the team. Skips have sole charge of their rink.
• Follow the direction given by the Skip, no matter whether you agree or disagree.
• The ‘lead’ shall place the mat and deliver the jack ensuring that the jack is properly centred before delivering the first bowl.
•  Remember that the directions for the Skip are only given by the number 2 in Triples or the number 3 in fours matches. Other players should not interfere unless asked.
• Never deliver your bowl before the previous bowl has come to rest.
• Keep track of play, be ready to bowl when it is your turn.
• Questions to the skip and directions from the skip must only be made when you are on the mat and in possession of the rink.
• The result of each end (including measuring when required) is determined by the number 2’s in Triples or the number 3’s in fours  games. Other players should not be involved.
• Do not disturb the head until the result of the end has been agreed.
• The lead player of the losing team then collects the bowls in readiness for the next end.
• The number 2 (in Triples, 3 in Fours) or Skip of the ‘home’ team updates the scoreboard.

AFTER THE GAME:

• Win with modesty, Lose with grace!
• Win or lose, always shake hands with your opponents and team players and thank them for the game.
• Ensure that jacks, mats, scoreboards and other equipment is returned to the equipment shed.

A knowledge of the above will make you a more well-respected bowler and will contribute to the enjoyment of the game for everyone involved, both on and off the green.

BOWLING ACTIVITIES

All members of the team are responsible for ensuring that Jacks, Mats, Rink Markers, Bowls Gatherers and Scoreboards are returned to their rightful place at the end of any play on the green.

All members playing in a match MUST wear the Club shirt. They must also ensure they have Club stickers on their bowls. It is preferable for bowls shoes to be worn. However, considering that other forms of footwear can be so much cheaper, the main requirement is that all shoes must have a flat sole. The footwear, preferably, should be white.

The use of mobile phones for texting, calls, internet access or social media contact is NOT ALLOWED on the bowls green. They must also be set to silent during the formalities before, during and after a match.

Every person playing in a representative match must pay a rink fee. This will be collected by your skip before starting each match.

It is necessary when playing on the green in an internal competition that a rink booking is made. The rink booking diary is in the pavilion and you must show the commencement time of the game.

Any other play, normally referred to as a Roll Up can be played at any time relevant to green availability.

Regular roll-up sessions are held on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons whereby members can elect to join the team roll-up, have a coaching session or just practise their technique.

The colour and direction of play is indicated in the diary and must be adhered to whenever possible.

Open days are held annually with occasional fun days or charity days.

New members are encouraged to request coaching sessions and will not be pressured into playing in friendly matches or competitions unless and until they feel confident to do so. However, friendly matches can help new players gain confidence more quickly as there is no pressure to win or even play well. All friendlies are played in a convivial manner purely for the enjoyment of the game, so please join in.                   

Matches and Competitions

All friendly matches are arranged by the Fixtures Secretary and are mixed and open to all Club members.

The Club Captain places notices in the pavilion for members to register their interest in playing. The Club Captain then selects the team.

All players in a match must wear the Club shirt.

When playing competitions it must be noted that these take priority when choosing rinks on which to play.

Members are eligible to enter all competitions.

Forms are provided by the relevant Secretary.

Members are notified which Club competitions are being arranged each year, and can enter by completing an entry form. This form will be provided to each member at the beginning of the season by the Competitions Secretary.

A range of competitions are planned, all are designed to ensure that novices as well as experienced bowlers have the opportunity to progress to the finals.

The Competitions Secretary will provide a programme of playing dates when all entries have been received.

Complaints Procedure General

PURPOSE:

To outline the procedure to be undertaken when making and receiving a complaint regarding the activities of the Club.

PROCEDURES:

Should you have a complaint on any aspect of the service that we offer, behaviour or performance of a representative of the Club then we ask you to follow the stages detailed below in order to seek a satisfactory resolution of your complaint. Please read all the suggested stages and decide which is the most appropriate for the nature of your complaint.

Stage 1

We would advise that you should make an informal complaint to the individual in question who will be aware of our complaints policy and will be aware that every effort shall be looked at in order to agree a way forward or solution that is acceptable to both parties. In these cases we would ask that a suitable time period is allowed and would suggest a response within 7 working days to investigate ways forward unless quicker agreed between the two parties. We would hope that within this time frame there has been sufficient discussion and action to have remedied an amicable solution, however if this is not the case you are advised to move to stage 2.

Stage 2

If you feel that the initial complaint cannot be resolved formally via the stage 1 procedure or you find it to be inappropriate to discuss this informally then the complaint should be submitted to the club chairman or secretary.

In your written complaint we would ask that you include a detailed account with dates and any supporting documentation that you feel would be appropriate.

Your written complaint will be acknowledged within 5 working days and an outline confirmed on the proposed course of action that will be taken. An investigation of the facts contained within the complaint will be carried out and we will write to you within one calendar month of our findings and our decision as to whether the complaint is justified (supported) and a summary explaining the action we propose taking to resolve the matter if this is required.

If we feel that your complaint is justified we may offer recompense which might vary form an apology to reimbursement of any fees or service and any other option that we feel might be appropriate dependent on the nature of the complaint.

All complaints shall be entered onto a complaints log which will be reviewed on a six-monthly basis to establish any trends and record any preventative action considered to be necessary.

All complaints shall be held on a secure server for a minimum period of three 

Complaints procedure during play

The aim of this framework is to deal with behaviour that you believe is contrary to the rules of the game or established etiquette. It is intended to deal with all cases: where there is a breach and it is deliberate; where there is a breach and it is accidental; and where you mistakenly believe there to be a breach.

In all cases, the hope is that this framework will make it easier to raise the issue and for the issue to be dealt with fairly if escalation is needed.

So, if you perceive wrong-doing on the part of your opponent please follow this procedure:

1.  Ask them to stop and if you feel it is required (i.e. there is some resistance) explain which rule is being infringed.

This first step is most important. It gives your opponent an opportunity to modify his/her behaviour and in 90% of all cases you can expect your opponent to desist. Often people are simply not aware of either the offence their action is causing or the rule in question.

2.  If your right to curtail their actions is questioned and/or the behaviour continues, you should attempt to appeal to the most knowledgeable club member present. It is important to note at this stage that the behaviour in question is not black and white and the appeal to a third party is important in both resolving the dispute there and then but also in providing evidence should the disagreement be escalated to the Committee.

If a suitable member is available, their judgement should be respected. However, if one or both parties do not consider the available people sufficiently credible, then that third party should continue to observe the game and notethe relevant behaviour carefully, so as to be able to be consulted on the matter after the game.

3    As a last resort, if the situation could not be resolved during the game - or if the resolution was so partial as to continue to cause offence, the matter should be reported to the Committee which will gather all available evidence and make its best effort to conclude the matter. The conclusion could include disqualification from the relevant competition, suspension of membership or any normal sanctions.

Above all, it is important to remember that these disputes can and will happen - and that having a procedure that is understood and can be used without causing undue stress is an important part of maintaining good relationships within the Club and beyond.

Code of Conduct for Coaches

The Club coaches agree to uphold the following rights, relationships and responsibilities:

Rights

Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person.

Help create an environment in which all children and adults at risk have an equal opportunity to participate.

Help create and maintain an environment free of fear and harassment.

Recognise the rights of all children and adults at risk to be treated as individuals.

Recognise the rights of parents/carers and children/adults at risk to confer with other coaches and experts.

Promote the concept of a balanced attitude, supporting the well-being of the child or vulnerable person both in and out of bowls.

Do not discriminate on the grounds of their age, disability, race, religious beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, social background.

Do not condone or allow to go unchallenged any form of discrimination or prejudice.

Do not publicly criticise or engage in demeaning descriptions of others.

Communicate with children or adults at risk in a manner that reflects respect and care.

Relationships

Develop relationships with parents/carers and children/ adults at risk based on openness, honesty, mutual trust and respect.

Do not engage in any behaviour that constitutes any form of abuse (physical, sexual, emotional abuse, neglect or bullying).

Be aware of the physical limits of children/ adults at risk and ensure that training loads and intensities are appropriate.

Ensure that physical contact is appropriate and necessary and is carried out within recommended guidelines.

Always try to work in an open environment (e.g. avoid private or unobserved situations).

Do not engage in any form of sexually-related contact with children/ adults at risk. Sexual innuendo, flirting or inappropriate gestures and terms are also unacceptable.

Promote the welfare and best interests of all children and adults at risk.

Explain to parents/carers, as appropriate, the potential impact of the coaching programme on the child/ adult at risk.

Do not have a sexual relationship with someone under the age of 18 who you are coaching.

Be familiar with the organisation’s Child Protection Policy and Procedures.

Report any concerns you may have in relation to a child/ adult at risk or the behaviour of an adult, and follow reporting procedures.

Consider the child’s/vulnerable adults’ opinions when making decisions about their participation in bowls.

Inform parents/carers and children/ adults at risk of the etiquette and practical considerations when playing bowls.

Inform parents/carers of any potential financial implications.

Responsibilities and Personal Standings:

Demonstrate proper personal behaviour and conduct at all times.

Be fair and honest with all children and adults at risk.

Develop an appropriate working relationship with children/ adults at risk based on mutual trust and respect.

Always emphasise that the well-being and safety of the child/adult is more important than the development of performance.

Do not smoke, or drink alcohol, while actively working with children or adults at risk.

Never use recreational or performance-enhancing drugs.

Promote the positive aspects of bowls (e.g. fair play, honesty and etiquette).

Attend appropriate training to enable you to keep up-to-date with your role and matters relating to the welfare of children and adults at risk.

Hold relevant qualifications.

Ensure the necessary insurance cover is in place.

 Code of Conduct for Club Members

The Club is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all its members, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all. The club believes that it is important that members, coaches, administrators and parents associated with the Club should, at all times, show respect and understanding for the safety and welfare of others.

Therefore, members are encouraged to be open at all times and to share any concerns or complaints that they may have about any aspect of the Club with any Club Official.

As a member of the Club you are expected to abide by the following code of practice:

All members must take responsibility in ensuring they are up to date with the rules, understand and adhere to them.

All members must respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of age, gender, ability, race, cultural background, religious beliefs or sexual identity.

Members should recognise the valuable contribution made by coaches and officials who are usually volunteers. They give their time and resources to provide bowls for you.

All members must respect officials and publicly accept their decisions.

All members should be a positive role model, treat other players and officials with the same level of respect you would expect to be shown to you.

Use correct and proper language at all times.

Members are not allowed to smoke within the Club buildings or on the green.

Members should keep to agreed timings for training and competitions or inform their coach or team manager if they are going to be late.

Members must wear suitable footwear on the green, as per the club dress code.

Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy

The Club has considered its responsibilities to the young people participating in bowls at our premises and within our club very carefully, and has produced the following Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy and underpinning procedures in order to set out the standards we wish to uphold in providing activities for children and safeguarding the welfare of children in our care.

The Club affiliates to the National Governing Body and the Club recognises the policies of their Governing Body, as set in out in the “Safeguarding Bowls Guidelines”.

Policy Statement

The Club acknowledges its duty of care to safeguard the welfare of all young people (defined as those under 18) involved in bowls within the Club. All young people have a right to protection, and have their particular needs taken into account.

The Club will therefore endeavour to ensure the safety and protection of all young people involved with the club through the Child Protection guidelines adopted by the Management Committee of the club. It is the responsibility of all adults within the Club to assist.

Policy Aims

To provide young people with appropriate safety and protection whilst in the care of the Club and also help them to enjoy their experience of the sport of bowls.

To reassure parents that their children will receive the best practicable care possible whilst participating in activities within the Club.

To provide support to club members and volunteers to make informed and confident responses to specific child protection issues and to fulfil their role effectively.

Safeguarding Adults at Risk Policy

The Club affiliates to the National Governing Body and the Club recognises the policies of their Governing Body, as set in out in the “Safeguarding Bowls Guidelines”.

Policy Aims

The purpose of this policy is to outline the duty and responsibilities of staff/volunteers working on behalf of the Club in relation to Safeguarding Adults at risk.

All adults have the right to be safe from harm and must be able to live free from fear of abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Objectives

Everyone who participates in bowls is entitled to do so in a safe and enjoyable environment.

The Club is committed to helping everyone in bowls accept their responsibility to safeguard adults at risk, from harm and abuse.

All suspicions and allegations of abuse and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

Staff and volunteers working with adults at risk in bowls have a responsibility to report concerns to any club official.

Definition of an Adult at Risk

An Adult (a person aged 18 or over) who 'is or may be in need of community care services by reason of mental or other disability, age or illness; and who is or may be unable to take care of him or herself, or unable to protect him or herself against significant harm or exploitation'. (Definition from the Department of Health 2002).

This could include people with learning disabilities, mental health problems, older people and people with a physical disability or impairment. It may also include victims of domestic abuse, hate crime and anti-social behaviour. The persons’ need for additional support to protect themselves may be increased when complicated by additional factors, such as, physical frailty or chronic illness, sensory impairment, challenging behaviour, drug or alcohol problems, social or emotional problems, poverty or homelessness.

Types of Abuse

The Department of Health in its ‘No Secrets’ 2000 report suggests the following as the main types of abuse:

Physical abuse - including hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, misuse of medication, restraint, or inappropriate sanctions.

Sexual abuse - including rape and sexual assault or sexual acts to which the vulnerable adult has not consented, or could not consent or was pressured into consenting.

Psychological abuse - including emotional abuse, threats of harm or abandonment, deprivation of contact, humiliation, blaming, controlling, intimidation, coercion, harassment, verbal abuse, isolation or withdrawal from services or supportive networks.

Financial or material abuse - including theft, fraud, exploitation, pressure in connection with wills, property or inheritance or financial transactions, or the misuse or misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits.

Neglect and acts of omission - including ignoring medical or physical care needs, failure to provide access to appropriate health, social care or educational services, the withholding of the necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating.

Discriminatory abuse - including race, sex, culture, religion, politics, that is based on a person’s disability, age or sexuality and other forms of harassment, slurs or similar.

Institutional abuse - Institutional abuse although not a separate category of abuse in itself, requires specific mention simply to highlight that adults placed in any kind of care home or day care establishment are potentially vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. This can be especially so when care standards and practices fall below an acceptable level as detailed in the contract specification.

Multiple forms of abuse - Multiple forms of abuse may occur in an ongoing relationship or an abusive service setting to one person, or to more than one person at a time, making it important to look beyond single incidents or breaches in standards, to underlying dynamics and patterns of harm. Any or all of these types of abuse may be perpetrated as the result of deliberate intent and targeting of adults at risk.

Responsibilities and Communication

The Club Safeguarding Policy will be available to all members, parents, staff, volunteers and participants. It is important that adults at risk are protected from abuse. All complaints, allegations or suspicions must be taken seriously with the Club Committee passing information to the appropriate NGB Safeguarding Officer and informing the appropriate club staff where relevant.

The Club has responsibility for ensuring that the policy and procedures are implemented, including referring any appropriate disciplinary action to the national governing body as appropriate.

The Role of Key Individual Agencies

Adult Social Services - The Department of Health’s recent ‘No secrets’ guidance document requires that authorities develop a local framework within which all responsible agencies work together to ensure a coherent policy for the protection of vulnerable adults at risk of abuse.

All local authorities have a Safeguarding Adults Board, which oversees multi-agency work aimed at protecting and safeguarding vulnerable adults. It is normal practice for the board to comprise of people from partner organisations who have the ability to influence decision making and resource allocation within their organisation.

The Police - The Police play a vital role in Safeguarding Adults with cases involving alleged criminal acts. It becomes the responsibility of the police to investigate allegations of crime by preserving and gathering evidence. Where a crime is identified, the police will be the lead agency and they will direct investigations in line with legal and other procedural protocols.

Legal Framework

The Care Act 2014 http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/23/introduction/enacted sets

out a clear legal framework for how local authorities and other parts of the system should protect adults at risk of abuse or neglect. Each Local Authority must have a Safeguarding Adults Board (SAB), in much the same way of Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCB). They must lead a multi-agency system that seeks to prevent abuse and neglect and stop it quickly when it happens which includes the NHS, police and Social Care. The Safeguarding Adults Boards (SAB) must meet regularly, develop shared safeguarding plans and publish an annual review of progress. They will carry out Safeguarding Adults Reviews in some circumstances relating to safeguarding failures. The Act also introduces a responsibility for Local Authorities to make enquiries and take any necessary action if an adult with care and support needs could be at risk, even if that adult isn’t receiving localauthority care and support.

Human Rights Act 1998, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998.

Data Protection Act 1998, Freedom of Information Act 2000, Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006, Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, Code of Practice2008.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005, covering England and Wales, provides a statutory framework for people who lack capacity to make decisions for themselves, or who have capacity and want to make preparations for a time when they may lack capacity in the future. It sets out who can take decisions, in which situations, and how they must go about this.

Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed regularly or in response to significant new legislation by the Management Committee, and amended as appropriate. Guidance from Bowls National Governing Bodies will be sought as part of the review process.

The policy will be monitored in partnership with the Bowls National Governing Bodies and Bowls Development Alliance procedures.

Privacy Policy

Your Personal Data:

For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998 and the new Data Protection Regulations 2018 we are the data controller responsible for your personal data.

Our full details are;

Wollescote Hall Bowls Club. c/o Club Secretary, Paul Grainger, 22 Richmond Grove, Wollaston, Stourbridge.

Tel; 01384 397420 or 07969-795429

e-mail grainger-paul@hotmail.co.uk or wollescotehallbowlsclub@gmail.com

What information we collect;

 We may collect, use and store the following information or ‘personal data’;

•  Name, address, e-mail address and telephone numbers.
• Any record of correspondence that has passed between us.

How do we collect this information;

 All information we hold about you will have been provided to us by past records and from you when you joined the Club.   

Why do we need this information and how we use it;

•  We need this information to contact you to notify you about all aspects of club matters including meetings, friendly matches and internal competitions.
• We need it to keep your records up to date.

Who we share this information with;

 We do not sell, share or distribute your personal information to or with anyone unless we have your express permission to do so. We are required, from time to time, to send abbreviated details to the Worcestershire Bowling Association who in turn may forward this to Bowls England. We cannot be held responsible for their systems of control but are reassured by their own Privacy Policy, a copy of which can be examined upon request. We have, with your permission, given an abbreviated copy of your name, address, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses to all fellow members of the club. This is to assist you in arranging transport for matches that you nominate for and also to enable you to arrange dates and times for internal competitions.

Where your information is stored;

 In order to prevent unauthorised access or disclosure, we have put in place secure physical, electronic and administrative procedures to safe guard the information we collect.

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BOWLS ETIQUETTE

The etiquette of bowls is a combination of good manners, sportsmanship and sociability. These courtesies are best described as the unwritten laws of the game. They are extras and are designed to promote and enhance the excellent reputation for friendliness and sportsmanship that the game of bowls has rightly earned. "Be familiar with the Laws of the Game and any variation that might specifically apply to the Club or to a Tournament in which you may be playing."

GENERAL

• • Bowls is a friendly, social activity so try to be friendly and sociable to your opponents at all times.
• • Ensure you are correctly attired as dress for matches and competitions can vary. If in doubt consult your Captain or Secretary. (It is customary for men to wear ties at the commencement of matches unless the Captain has given permission otherwise).
• • Do support your club whenever and wherever possible and take your duties if rostered seriously. Put your name down on the nomination sheets as early as possible to enable the Club Captain to select players for upcoming matches whether friendlies of league fixtures. If for a good reason you have to withdraw please notify your Captain at the earliest convenience.
• • Make sure you know the correct starting time of the game and arrive in sufficient time to change and be on the green ready to start at the appointed time.
• • Make sure you know the rules of the game/competition you are playing. If unsure please ask a more experienced player or a committee member.
• • Make sure you have the correct stickers on your bowls (Club/District/County).
• • Do support your club and put your name down on all nomination sheets. (If unsure how to go about this, seek advice from your Club instructor, Captain or Secretary.)
• • Do play your part in assisting with the smooth running of your Club and support your Club and its officers. Check to see if you are expected to help with catering and/or any other duty such as helping to get equipment ready. If your name appears on a rota and you are unable to attend, notify the Captain or Secretary without delay. (It may be your responsibility to find an alternative).
• • Law 52 specifies the duties of the Players when playing as a rink.
• • The 'skip' shall have sole charge of his team.
• • The 'third' may have deputised to him/her the duty of measuring all disputed shots.
• • The 'skip' shall keep a record of all shots scored for and against his/her team.
• • The 'lead' shall place the mat and shall deliver the jack ensuring that the jack is properly centred before playing the first bowl.
• DURING THE GAME
• • Enter and leave the green by the footpaths, do not cross the greens and respect the green surface at all times. Do not drop your bowls on to the green. Do not stand on the edge of the green or walk in the ditches.
• • Where there is an umpire please respect their decision.
• • Stand behind the mat whilst your opponent bowls, never stand in front or level with them. When at the head always keep still when a player is about to bowl, movement and talking is very distracting and could be seen as gamesmanship.
• • When changing ends walk close to the centre of the rink with a minimum of delay, do not dawdle or chat when changing ends, it could distract players on other rinks.
• • Do not follow a bowl down the green and stand so preventing your opponent from seeing the line of run of the bowl.
• • All players should assist in collecting up bowls at completion of an end, the losing lead player should be the first to the pusher if used.
• • Possession of the rink' must always be respected. Be still and quiet whether at the 'mat' end or the 'head' whilst others are delivering their bowls.
• • Never deliver your bowl before the previous bowl has come to rest.
• • Keep track of play, be ready to bowl when it is your turn.
• • Always inform your opponent if you wish to leave the green.
• • Follow the directions given by the 'skip' whether or not you agree.
• • You may only ask the skip a question when you are on the mat and ready to bowl. Likewise, the 'skip' should not give you information when you are off the mat and possession has been transferred to the next person to bowl.
• • Remember that directions for the 'skips' are only given by the number 3 in rinks (4 players) or number 2 in triples. Other players must not intervene unless asked. (Remember it is a team game). • The result of each end is determined between the number 3's (2's in triples). Other players should not interfere unless asked.
• • Do not disturb the 'head' until the result of the end has been decided.
• • Encourage rather than criticise, no one intentionally bowls a bad ball.
• • In a rinks, triples or pairs game play as a team member not as an individual.
• • Remember that it is unsporting to verbally encourage failure by the opposition, e.g. encouraging a bowl to miss/go through, etc. It is also unsporting to verbally 'celebrate' a shot by your opponents which has 'gone wrong' and given your team the advantage. (These 'strokes of fortune' usually even themselves out over a season!)
• • If you lose, be a good loser, don't blame your loss on other people, the green, the weather conditions, etc.
• • Win or lose, always shake hands with your opponents and team players and thank them for the game. (Remember to thank the Marker in a Singles game).
• • Bowls is a sociable game and it is good manners after a game to offer your opponents (and Marker in Singles) a drink and/or refreshments.

ABOVE ALL FOLLOW THE CLUB RULES, KEEP UP THE TRADITIONS OF THE GAME AND ENJOY IT ON AND OFF THE GREEN.

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ROLL-UP DAYS _ COMPETITION RULES

There will be two roll up competitions, one on Tuesday afternoons and one on Wednesday afternoons.

Any club member is eligible to play on either or both days.

The format of play will depend upon the number of players present on each day. There will be a sheet on the notice board indicating what formats to play starting from 2 player up to 48 players. The preferred format of play is doubles or triples so this sheet will be based around this.

All members must be at the green and signed in by 1:45pm at the latest to qualify for the roll up competition and to allow the draw to take place prior to start of play as close to 2:00pm as possible.

The draw will be made by picking red or yellow numbered rink discs from the draw bag.

Following the draw each rink will be responsible for filling in and completing a score card which following completion of the game should be placed in the competition box in the clubhouse. Failure to do this could result in that rink’s results not being entered on to the results spread sheet which is being compiled and kept up to date by Paul Grainger. A copy of the competition results will be posted in the clubhouse at regular intervals or available to see on the club’s website.

Points will be awarded as follows:- 1 point for turning up and registering; 1 extra point for each member of a drawn rink and 2 extra points for each member of a winning rink.

All games will be straight off with no trial ends. All games should consist of a minimum of 12 ends up to a maximum of 18 ends. In the event of a game being called off due to inclement weather or illness of a player then points will still be awarded if a minimum of 6 ends have been completed. Otherwise each player will only be awarded 1 point for turning up.

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CONSTITUTION

INDEX

                   Section 1: Name and Objectives.

                  Section 2: Officers of the Club

                  Section 3: Membership

                  Section 4: Management Committee

                  Section 5: Annual General Meeting

                  Section 6: Dissolution of the Club

                  Section 7: Amendments to the Constitution

 Section1: Name and Objectives

1.1      The name of the Club shall be Wollescote Hall Bowls Club (hereinafter referred to within this constitution as the ‘Club’).

1.2      The Club shall be affiliated to Bowls England and the Worcestershire Bowling Association.

1.3      The objectives of the Club are to provide facilities for, and to promote participation in, the amateur sport of flat green bowls in the West Midlands and Worcestershire Areas.

1.4      The Club shall adopt and conform to Bowls England Rules & Regulations and the current Laws of the Sport of Bowls.

1.5      The Club is opposed to the abuse and ill treatment of children and vulnerable adults in any form. It also recognises that it is contributing to the child’s education in its widest sense. It is therefore determined that no young person will be admitted to junior membership without having first provided a complete parental consent form (available from the Club Secretary). Other than a parent, grandparent, or other legal guardian there should always be at least two adults present when a junior member is within the ‘care of the Club’. This is to recognise that it is not sensible to spend time alone with children away from others. This includes taking children in a car on journeys however short.

Section 2: Officers of the Club

The Officers of the Club shall be Full Members of the Club unless otherwise agreed by Members at an AGM, or at a specially convened meeting of the club. The Officers shall consist of President, Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Club Captain, Fixtures Secretary and up to 5 elected members.

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.

Section3: Membership

3.1      Categories and votes of Membership.

3.1.1   The club may have different classes of membership and subscription on a non-discriminatory and fair basis irrespective of age, sex, race religion, disability, sexuality, or financial standing. Membership requires acceptance and compliance with the laws, etiquette, and spirit of the game of bowls on all occasions. This means adherence to all National, County and Club rules and regulations.

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

(a)   A FULL MEMBER – Member being a person who, at the date of

election, shall have attained the age of eighteen years shall have one vote.

(b)  A JUNIOR MEMBER – being a person who, at the date of election, is under the age of eighteen shall have no vote.

(c)   AN HONORARY LIFE MEMBER – who shall have one vote.

(d)  A SOCIAL MEMBER – who shall have one vote.

3.2     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 to the Worcestershire Bowling Association and Bowls England.

(b)  A JUNIOR MEMBER shall have the full use of all Club facilities. Affiliation Fees shall be payable to Worcestershire Bowling Association and Bowls England.

(c)   AN HONORARY/LIFE MEMBER shall have the full use of all the Club facilities. No Affiliation Fees shall be payable to Worcestershire Bowling Association or Bowls England unless the member is a regular bowler.

(d)  A SOCIAL MEMBER shall have the full use of the Club-house facilities.

3.3  Membership Joining Fees and Subscription Fees

           The rate of Joining Fee (if any) and Subscription Fee for each category of Membership shall be proposed by the Committee to the members at the Annual General Meeting each year.

Any proposed changes shall be approved by a majority of those present and entitled to vote and shall become operative from the date of the AGM.

     (a) Membership of the Club shall be open to anyone interested in the sport of 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.

     (b)  Membership subscriptions will be kept at levels that will not pose a significant obstacle to people participating.

      (c)  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. If consideration of removal of membership is because of a discrepancy issue, the procedure to be adopted shall be that as set out at Section 3.6.2 of this Constitution.

     (d) All members shall pay their first annual subscription fee upon election to the Club and      thereafter within one month of the date of the Pre-Summer Season Meeting.

3.4     Members’ duty to provide contact details

           Every member shall furnish the Honorary 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.

3.5     Election and retirement of members

 3.5.1 Application for membership

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. Further details will be requested in line with ‘Health and Safety’ procedures.

3.5.2 Election of Members

           The Honorary Secretary shall inform each candidate in writing of the candidate's election or non-election. The Honorary Secretary shall furnish an elected candidate with a copy of the Rules and Byelaws of the Club and make request for such payments as are necessary.

3.5.3 Payment of Fees upon Election

           Upon election, a candidate shall pay, within one calendar month, fees as shall be requested. In default of such payment, the election shall be void unless sufficient cause for delay can be shown.

 3.5.4 Retirement of a member

(a)   A member wishing to resign their membership shall give notice in writing to the Honorary Secretary at any time and shall not then be liable to pay the subscription for the following year.

(b)  A member who retires in accordance with this Rule shall not be entitled to have any part of  the annual membership fee or any other fees returned 

 3.5.5 Arrears of Subscription

           The Committee may cancel, without notice being given, the membership of any member whose annual subscription and other annual fees are more than one month in arrears provided that the Committee may, at its absolute discretion, re-instate such member upon payment of arrears. No member whose annual payment is in arrears may use the Club premises or vote at any meeting.

3.6    Conduct of Members

3.6.1 Under-taking by members to comply with rules

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

3.6.2 Disciplinary action against members

 (a) All disciplinary matters will be dealt with in accordance with Bowls England Regulation 9,            Misconduct   

        b) 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.

        (c) If allegation of misconduct is proven, accused member/members to be advised in writing of their right of appeal to County Association. Bowls England Regulation 9. 5. 1a.

  3.6.3 Complaints

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

3.6.4 Members of other Bowls England Affiliated Clubs.

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

3.7    Limitation of Club liability

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

3.7.2 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:

(a) The Club will not accept any liability for any damage to or loss of property belonging to members.

(b) 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.”

3.7.3   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 General Data Protection Act.

Section 4: Management Committee

4.1   Composition of Committee

 4.1.1 The Committee shall consist of the FIVE Officers, Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Fixtures Secretary and Club Captain and not more than FIVE other members. Members to be elected at the Annual General Meeting to hold office for the term of one year.

  4.1.2 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 Honorary Secretary at least FOURTEEN 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 forwarded to the Honorary Secretary who shall inform all members of the nominations prior to the AGM.

  4.1.3 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.

  4.1.4 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 a majority of those present at the Annual General Meeting, and entitled to vote, vote in favour of such election.

 4.1.5 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 a further ballot.

4.1.6   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. Co-opted Members will be entitled to vote.

4.2  The Principal Club Officers Duties

4.2.1 The President (An Honorary non-executive position}

(a)   To act as titular head of the club.

(b)  To use his/her presidential contacts to enhance the good name of the club

(c)   To undertake such duties that are deemed to be of a presidential nature or as agreed by the committee.

4.2.2 The Chairperson

(a)   To act as principal officer of the Club.

(b)  To safeguard the application of the Constitution and its policies.

(c)   To guide the division of duties amongst the Officers of the Club.

(d)  To Chair all meetings of the Club.

4.2.3 The Secretary

(a)   To act as principle administrative officer of the Club.

(b)  To maintain the Club’s administrative records.

(c)   To carry out special projects as and when necessary and approved by the Committee.

4.2.4 The Treasurer

(a)   To receive and safeguard all moneys and funds of the club.

(b)  To maintain effective control and recording of all the monies, funds and assets placed in his/her care.

(c)   To arrange an Annual Audit of the Club’s financial records. For this purpose, the Clubs’ ‘financial year’ shall commence on 1^st October and continue to the following 30^th September.

4.2.5 The Fixtures Secretary

(a)   To promote the improvement of Bowls play by members by arranging each season, continuing, and challenging Match Fixtures with other Clubs.

(b)  To provide each member with a ‘Fixture Card’.

4.2.6 The Club Captain

(a)   The Club Captain or his/her nominated ‘Captain of the Day’ is responsible for, and in control of Club Members on the Green when it is occupied by Members or play is in progress whether at home or away.

(b)  The Club Captain or nominated representative shall ensure that the correct etiquette is observed on and around the field of play.

(c)   The Club Captain or nominated representative shall select the teams for each match from a list that will be displayed on the Club Notice Board. The list to be posted at least three weeks before each match. The players selected will be shown on the list one week before the match.

(d)  The Club Captain will liaise with the Fixtures Secretary regarding planned and potential matches for the forthcoming season.

  4.3  Committee Meetings

 4.3.1 Management Meetings of the Committee will be held on at least six occasions       

annually. Appropriate dates should be circulated to Committee Members by the Secretary following the AGM.  Additional meetings may be held if necessary.

  4.3.2 Voting shall be by show of hands. In the case of equality of votes the Chairman (or other nominated person) shall be entitled to a second and casting vote.

  4.3.3 Four Committees members, which must include two Executive Committee Members personally present, shall form a quorum at a meeting of the Committee.

 4.3.4 Any conflict of interest must be declared to the Chairman (or other nominated person) prior to the start of the meeting. The Chairman (or other nominated person) will determine if the person may remain in the meeting and/or vote when the item is discussed.

  4.3.5 Minutes of each meeting will be taken by the Secretary and circulated to Committee members following the meeting.

4.4   Powers of the Committee

 4.4.1 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.

  4.4.2 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 re-invested in the Club.

4.5    Appointment of Sub-Committees

           The Committee may appoint such sub-committees 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.

   4.6     Disclosure of Interest to Third Parties

A member of the Committee, of a sub-committee or any member of the Club, in transacting business for the Club, shall disclose to third parties that they are so acting.

4.7  Limitation of Committee's authority

           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 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.

4.8  Members Indemnification of Committee

           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 entered into on behalf of the Club.

Indemnity Clause

(a)“Each member of the Club shall, to the extent that such person is not entitled to recover under any policy of insurance, be entitled to be indemnified out of all funds available to the Club which may lawfully be so applied against all costs, expenses and liabilities whatsoever, reasonably incurred by such person in the proper execution and discharge of duties undertaken on behalf of the Club arising there from, or incurred in good faith in the purported discharge of such duties.”

(b) “Save in any such case where such costs, expenses, and liabilities, arise in connection with   any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust, provided that any such member, so indemnified, has been properly authorised, in relation to the duties undertaken by him or her on behalf of the Club, by the Club’s Management Committee”.

(c) “The limit of any individual member's indemnity in this respect shall be a sum equal to one year's subscription at the then current rate of that category of membership unless the Committee has been authorised to exceed such limit by a General Meeting of the Club”.

4.9  Contractual Liability

           The Committee shall endeavour to ensure that the following clause is incorporated in every contract, lease, licence, or other agreement entered into by the Committee.

“The liability of the Committee for the performance of any contractual or other obligation undertaken by them on behalf of the Club shall be limited to the assets of the Club from time to time.”

4.10   Nomination of Honorary Members/Life Members by the Committee.

 4.10.1 The Committee may nominate for election at an Annual General Meeting such Honorary/Life Members as the Committee may think fit.

4.10.2 The election of Honorary/Life Members shall be placed before the Annual General Meeting each year and such Honorary Members shall be duly elected if two thirds of those present, and entitled to vote, vote in favour of election.   

Section 5: Annual General Meeting

  5.1   An Annual General Meeting of the Club shall be held each year in the month of NOVEMBER on a date to be fixed by the Committee. The Honorary Secretary shall, at least TWENTY-ONE days before the date of such a meeting circulate to each member, notice of the meeting and an agenda of items to be considered. This may be either by post or electronically.

   5.2  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 is given in writing by a member entitled to vote to the Honorary Secretary at least FOURTEEN days before the date of the Annual General Meeting.

   5.3   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 notice convening the meeting, and the discussion at such meeting shall be confined to the business stated in the notice sent to members.

   5.4   In March each year a PRE-SUMMER SEASON MEETING shall be called to discuss all matters relating to the forthcoming playing season.           

   5.5   The Committee shall call a SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING upon a written request addressed to the Honorary Secretary signed by at least 10 members. The Committee shall meet within SEVEN days of the request in order to call an SGM. 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.

   5.6   At every meeting of the Club the Chairman will preside, or in their absence, a Chair elected by a majority of those present.

   5.7   ONE THIRD of members entitled to vote at the relevant meeting and personally present shall form a quorum at any General Meeting of the Club.

5.8    Qualified Members shall have the right to vote at any General Meeting of the Club.

          (See Section 3.1.1)

   5.9   Voting, except upon the election of members of the Committee, shall be by show of hands.

   5.10 In the case of an equality of votes the Chairman (or other nominated person) shall have a second or casting vote, on any matter.

   5.11 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.

Section 6: Dissolution of the Club

  6.1   If, at any General Meeting of the Club, a resolution be passed calling for the dissolution of the Club, the Secretary shall immediately convene a Special General Meeting to be held not less than one month thereafter to discuss and vote on the resolution.

  6.2   If, at that Special General Meeting, the resolution is carried by at least two-thirds of the Members present, the Committee shall thereupon, or at such date as shall have been specified in the resolution, proceed to realise the assets of the Club, and discharge all debts and liabilities of the Club.

  6.3   If, upon the winding up or dissolution of the Club, there remains after the satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities any property, of whatever nature, the same shall not be paid to or distributed amongst the members of the Club.

  6.4   Upon dissolution of the Club the Committee shall give or transfer the net assets remaining to Charities recommended by the Committee, and endorsed by Members, preferably to other clubs for the furtherance of Flat Green Bowls.

 Section 7: Amendments to The Constitution

           Amendments to the foregoing Constitution shall only be made at an Annual General Meeting or Special General Meeting convened for that purpose. FOURTEEN days’ notice of amendments must be given to the Secretary in writing by post or e-mail.

           Signed                                                                          Signed

           Richard Dymott                                                            Paul Grainger 

           Chairman                                                                     Secretary

           Date 20/01/2022                                                          Date 20/01/2022

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