Don’t let anyone spoil your fun. Archery is fun – it gives you the opportunity to make new friends, try out new activities and amaze yourself with what you can do! When other people’s behaviour is spoiling your enjoyment, know that you can speak out. Archery GB wants you to feel safe, happy and welcome in our sport. Here’s some info to help you know when and how to ask for help.
Grooming is when a person starts to build up a relationship with you with the intention of tricking you or putting pressure on you to do things you feel uncomfortable with.
They will often start by being friendly, perhaps giving you compliments and sending lots of messages, which can make you feel good. They may begin to ask personal and intimate questions.
They will often ask you to keep these conversations secret. If anyone asks you to keep secrets from trusted people in your life, this is often a sign that something’s not right.
Online grooming can take place through text, email and on social media sites such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Snapchat.
No-one should make you feel uncomfortable or ask you to do things you don’t feel happy about.
Is something worrying you? Do you feel uncomfortable, upset or hurt about the way someone behaves towards you?
Don’t keep it to yourself - tell an adult you trust as soon as possible. If you’re not sure who to talk to, you can speak to a Childline (we’ve put the number at the bottom of this page) to help you work out who can help.
Make sure you are not alone with the person who is trying to harm you, or you feel uncomfortable with.
Here are some examples of people you may want to talk to:
Find the right time to talk - ask them if they can make time for a conversation about something important.
Practice what you want to say out loud, maybe in front of a mirror. Or you can write it down on a piece of paper to read to them, or give them to read.
Try opening the conversation with...
“I want to tell you something, but I’m not sure how.”
“This is hard for me to say, but I have something important to tell you.”
“I need some advice on something I’m stressed about.”
Write a letter, note, text or email to the person you trust.
Bullying is behaviour that hurts somebody else. Bullying is never a minor issue and Archery GB takes it very seriously. If you, or someone else is experiencing bullying, speak out so that it can be stopped.
Here are some forms of bullying:
Physical activity, being outdoors and socialising can improve mental health and wellbeing, so archery is a great place to start. But sometimes, this might not be quite enough.
Are you feeling lonely, anxious or worried? Are you unable to sleep or eat properly?
Talking and sharing your problems with other people who understand can help. Childline has a message board where you can share your experiences with other young people who are feeling the same way you do. Young Minds has some information on mental health which you may find helpful.
Remember, if you’re feeling low or anxious, you're not alone and help is out there. Try speaking to a trusted adult, or calling, emailing or chatting online with Childline for support and guidance.
If you’re worried or unsure about something, let us know so that we can help you. You don’t have to leave your name if you don’t want to, and anything you say will be kept confidential.
Anne Rook, Archery GB Lead Safeguarding Officer 01952 602792
Karen Hodgkiss, Archery GB Safeguarding and Governance Officer 01952 602793
Childline UK – 0800 11 11
