Misconduct Regulation | R9 Overview
Introduction
Regulation 9 (R9) establishes a clear, fair and proportionate framework for handling Affiliated Member misconduct within Bowls England, its Affiliated Clubs, and County Associations. It ensures consistency, promotes natural justice and protects the integrity of the sport.
Link to R9 Document Regulation-9_01.12.2025.pdf
Key Principles
- R9 is the framework that must be followed to address complaints of misconduct demonstrated by our Affiliated Members.
- Complaints must be managed at the most appropriate organisational level, i.e. Club, County or National, depending on where the misconduct occurred.
- Complaints of misconduct must be submitted in writing using the Complaint Form to the Complaint Assessor. The Assessor will review the details and determine whether the complaint is unfounded or should be classified as minor, moderate, or serious – each category guiding the appropriate resolution pathway.
- Complaints must be handled confidentially and fairly, with defined roles and responsibilities.
- Appeals are permitted but limited to one level up (e.g., Club → County → National).
June 2026 Review
One of our key roles as your governing body is to ensure that clubs receive the appropriate level of support to govern their clubs effectively. Support with disciplinary matters forms a key part of this are of our work. Our disciplinary regulation, (R9) was updated in December 2025 and has now been in operation for six months.
The feedback received to date has been very positive, with clubs and counties reporting that the new regulation is easier to understand and implement should the need arise. As with an regulation, R9 is subject to ongoing review and where updates and amendments are required, changes will be communicated as soon as possible.
We are also aware that one of the challenges is that a small number of clubs are not supporting the R9 process and not carrying out the required procedures. Please note that compliance with the R9 process is a condition of affiliation to Bowls England and ensures that, should our support be required, we can advise most effectively.
As part of the forthcoming changes, and in response to feedback received from individuals, clubs and counties, we will be considering the introduction of sanctions for clubs that do not comply with the R9 process.
If any clubs are experiencing difficulty with disciplinary procedures, please contact your County Disciplinary Officer, who will be able to guide you through the correct process.
If any counties require support, please contact disciplinary@bowlsengland.com in the first instance.
Key Links