Purpose

Worcestershire County Cricket Club is committed to fostering a workplace environment where every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and professionalism. This Anti-Harassment Policy and Code of Conduct outlines our zero-tolerance stance against harassment, including sexual harassment, and applies to all employees, contractors, vendors, visitors, and other third parties.

Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All employees, regardless of position or tenure.
  • Contractors, vendors, consultants, clients, and visitors interacting with Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
  • All interactions occurring on company premises, at company-sponsored events, during business travel, or in digital communications related to work.

Definition of Harassment

Harassment is any unwelcome conduct, verbal or physical, that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. It includes but is not limited to:

  1. Sexual Harassment:
    • Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
    • Examples include but are not limited to:
      • Inappropriate or unwelcome physical contact.
      • Sexual jokes, comments, or gestures.
      • Sharing sexually explicit material.
      • Quid pro quo harassment (e.g., offering benefits in exchange for sexual favours).
  2. Non-Sexual Harassment:
    • Bullying, intimidation, or any behaviour that demeans or humiliates.
    • Use of slurs, offensive jokes, or derogatory remarks.
    • Stalking, threats, or other forms of harassment.

Code of Conduct

All individuals interacting with Worcestershire County Cricket Club must:

  1. Treat all persons with respect and professionalism.
  2. Avoid engaging in any behaviour that could be interpreted as harassment or discrimination.
  3. Adhere to all applicable laws and company policies during interactions.
  4. Report any witnessed or experienced harassment promptly using the procedures outlined below.

Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct will result in appropriate disciplinary action, which may include termination of agreements, removal from premises, or legal action.

Reporting Procedures

If you experience or witness harassment:

  1. Immediate Reporting: Report the incident to Sarah Johns, Human Resources Manager or Cheryl Instan-Smith, County Safeguarding & EDI Lead.

Sarah Johns – 07768 487470 sarah.johns@wccc.co.uk

Cheryl Instan-Smith – 07789 928728 cheryl.instan-smith@wccc.co.uk

  1. Confidentiality: All reports will be handled confidentially to the greatest extent possible, consistent with the need for a thorough investigation.
  2. No Retaliation: Retaliation against anyone who reports harassment or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited.

Investigation and Resolution

Upon receiving a report, Worcestershire County Cricket Club will:

  1. Promptly investigate the complaint with impartiality and thoroughness.
  2. Take appropriate corrective actions based on investigation findings.
  3. Communicate the outcome to the affected parties while respecting confidentiality.

Consequences of Policy Violation

Violation of this policy will result in consequences appropriate to the severity of the offense, including but not limited to:

  • Verbal or written warnings.
  • Termination of contracts or agreements.
  • Legal action, if applicable.

By adhering to this policy, we ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone.