Child Protection
COMBE DOWN RUGBY
FOOTBALL CLUB
www.combedownrfc.com
POLICY AND PROCEDURES FOR THE WELFARE AND
PROTECTION OF YOUNG PERSONS
April 2008
Editors Notes
It is beyond any doubt that Child Protection issues are an extremely important consideration in the running of any sporting club or society which has young people among its members.
Whether or not it is considered likely that the young members of C.D.R.F.C. are at risk, the stark fact remains, whether we like it or not, that the opportunity exists for a child's safety and welfare to be put at risk. This applies equally to any sporting (or other) club in which young people interact with adults who are considered to be in a position of trust.
As a club, and as individuals, C.D.R.F.C. and its members, coaches, officers and staff owe each and every young player an obligation to ensure their safety and welfare.
To reflect the Club's commitment to the care of its young members, a Child Welfare Policy has been drafted.
The policy, as it states in Section 2, will be dynamic. That is to say that it will be constantly reviewed. To successfully review the policy and in order to ensure that it remains workable and relevant in all respects, the input of the managers, coaches, parents and everyone who is involved with the Club will be welcomed.
I have extracted the main elements from existing published guidance notes and set them out in this Policy. This has the advantage of keeping all of the Club's Codes, Guidance and Policies in the one document.
It is important that, for the reasons stated above, this Policy is read and understood by all coaches and those having contact with young people at the Club : they will be asked to sign an acknowledgement to the effect that hey have done this and will abide by the terms of the Policy.
Finally, please bear in mind that the Policy is not a substitute for plain common sense. Most of what is set out in the Policy will be obvious to most, if not all, of us but cannot possibly, deal with every scenario that may present itself. Here, common sense should be used and, if in doubt, ask.
Paul Ashman
Chairman C.D.R.F.C.
SECTION 1
POLICY STATEMENT
C.D.R.F.C. Rugby Football Club (the ClubÂ) recognises that the welfare of all young people is paramount and that it has a legal and moral obligation to protect all young persons whatever their age, culture, gender, disability, language, racial origin, religious belief or sexual identity from physical, emotional or sexual harm and from neglect or bullying of any kind and to ensure that a secure and safe environment is provided for the coaching and playing of rugby union by all young people.
The Club will adopt best practice and the highest standard of care in order to ensure the safety and welfare of the young people to whom it owes a duty of care and it will work in partnership with the parents of young people wherever appropriate for the implementation of this policy.
SECTION 2
INTRODUCTION
The Club recognises that abuse does take place in sport and is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all young persons to who it may owe a duty of care in order that they may enjoy rugby union in a secure and safe environment.
The Club WILL NOT TOLERATE any form of abuse towards the young people to who it considers that it owes a duty of care.
This Policy will be facilitated by:
1.Raising awareness and understanding of the main forms of abuse and poor practice and taking all reasonable steps to ensure that incidences of suspected poor practice and abuse are reported in accordance with the terms of this policy.
2.Having in place Codes of Conduct, Policies and procedures to reinforce good practice and prevent incidents of abuse.
The Club has the following Codes and Policies:
¢ A Policy on Bullying (Appendix 1)
¢ An Equity Policy (Appendix 2)
¢ A Code of Conduct, Ethics and Practice for Coaches (Appendix 3).
¢ A Good Match Officials Code (Appendix 4)
¢ A Good Parents Code (Appendix 5)
¢ A Good Spectators Code (Appendix 6)
¢ A Good Players Code (Appendix 7)
¢ A Policy Statement Relating to the Photographing or Videoing of Young
People (Appendix 8)
¢ A Health and Safety Policy (Section 9)
·RFU Incident Report Form (Appendix 9)
·Acknowledgement of Policy and Procedures (Appendix 10)
3.Ensuring that procedures are in place to protect the young person first and foremost when suspected abuse or actual abuse is reported and that everyone over who the Club has jurisdiction is aware of and understands these procedures.
4.Ensuring that all suspicions and allegations of abuse are taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
5.Establishing reporting and disciplinary procedures should abuse be alleged and subsequently established.
6.Appointing a Child Welfare Officer (C.W.O.Â) who will act as the first point of contact for concerns about the welfare of young people.
7.Having in place practice and procedures for the recruitment and screening of staff, coaches and volunteers.
8.Having in place and reviewing as often as is appropriate a Health and Safety Policy.
9.Ensuring that all persons involved with young people and over which the Club has jurisdiction:
¢ Undertake a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure.
¢ Are made aware of their responsibilities and of the terms of this
Policy and will comply with its provisions.
¢ Undertake relevant training as and when, in the absolute discretion
of the Child Welfare Officer, it is deemed necessary.
¢ Are regularly assessed by the C.W.O. or other suitably qualified
Officer of the Club with regard to the practices and procedures
adopted by them in their dealings with young people.
10. Recognising that it is essential to work in partnership with the parents of young people in the review and enforcement of this policy.
This Policy will be applicable to dealings with any young person who is:
¢ A member of the Club whether on Club premises or any other place whilst under the control and supervision of Club personnel and
¢ Any other young person whilst on Club premises.
The Club accepts that matters of interpretation may arise regarding this Policy and it encourages that such matters be referred to the C.W.O. or other appropriate officer for determination and guidance.
It is recognised that in order to successfully achieve its purpose from time to time the Policy has to be dynamic and must evolve and be reviewed as regularly as is appropriate but in any event not less than once in each year. All input from those involved with young people at the Club or with relevant experience is to be welcomed.
In this Policy a young person is anyone who is aged 17 years or less at midnight on the 31st August immediately prior to the start of any rugby season.
The words and phrases young player/sÂ, young people and child / children are, also, used in this Policy instead of young person where the context dictates.
The word parent in this Policy shall include reference to the guardian, carer or any other person with parental responsibility for a young person. This Policy should be read in conjunction with comparable publications produced by or on behalf of the sport's National Governing Body.
SECTION 3
RECOGNISING ABUSE AND POOR PRACTICE
Abuse is an emotive word and in the context of this Policy is used to describe the ways in which young people are harmed, usually, by individuals in a position of authority and that they know and trust.
Coaches and others working with young people hold this trust and may be at risk of misusing their power of the young players.
In order to provide young people with the best possible experiences and opportunities in rugby union, it is important that everyone involved operates within an accepted ethical framework and complies with the terms of this Policy and all applicable Codes of Conduct.
This will ensure that, firstly, the welfare of the young players is safeguarded and, secondly, that all relevant personnel are protected from false allegations of abuse or poor practice.
Poor Practice and abuse may not be easy to differentiate and is recognised that those involved with young people are not necessarily experts in distinguishing between the two. However, all persons involved with young people have a responsibility to act if they suspect poor practice and possible abuse by reporting their concerns in accordance with the procedures contained in this Policy.
“Poor Practice†may be considered to be any behaviour or practice which includes (but is not limited to) the following:
¢ failure to fulfil the highest standard of care which is expected of a coach or
other relevant person dealing with the young players or
¢ contravention of the Coaches Code of Conduct, Ethics and Practice
(Appendix 3) or
¢ contravention of the Club's Equity Policy (Appendix 2) or
¢ Infringement on the rights of the young players.
Abuse consists of four main types:
1. Emotional Abuse
This is the persistent ill treatment of a young person such as to cause severe and persistent adverse affects on their emotional development. It may involve conveying to young people that they are worthless or inadequate. It may, also involve children feeling
frightened or that they are in danger by constantly being shouted at, threatened or taunted which may make the child nervous or withdrawn
Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill-treatment of young people.
In a rugby context, emotional abuse may occur when young people:
¢ Receive repeated negative feedback, criticism or are subject to name-
calling, bullying or sarcasm.
¢ Are repeatedly ignored in their efforts to progress.
¢ Have consistently demanded of them performance levels beyond those of
which the young person is capable.
¢ Are over-indoctrinated with the winning ethic.
2. Neglect
This is where those responsible for young people fail, or refuse, to meet the young person's basic physical and / or psychological needs such as are likely to result in a serious impairment of the young person's health or development.
In a rugby context neglect could include young people being:
¢ Left alone without adequate supervision.
¢ Unnecessarily exposed to extremes of temperature without fluids or
protection.
¢ Exposed to unacceptable risk of injury.
¢ Failing to ensure that adequate medical care is available.
3. Physical Abuse
This is occurs when individuals, including other young people, deliberately inflict injuries on another young person or, knowingly, do not take such steps as are reasonable, to prevent such injuries or such other injury as is reasonably foreseeable.
In a rugby context physical abuse may consist of a young person being:
¢ Exposed to training programmes or exercises which disregards the
capacity of a young player's immature and growing body.
¢ Over-played or over-trained to the point of unacceptable levels of fatigue.
¢ Exposed to, or encouraged to consume, alcohol or performance enhancing drugs.
¢ Treated contrary to the Clubs Policy on Bullying
4. Sexual Abuse
This consists of the use of young people to meet the sexual needs of those in a position of trust (whether male or female) or by such persons suggesting that sexual favours may help (or refusal hinder) the young persons sporting career.
Apart from forcing a young person to take part in a physical sexual activity, sexual abuse may also consist of the exposure of a young person to pornographic material. In rugby, coaching techniques that involve physical contact with young people could, potentially, create situations where sexual abuse may go unnoticed.
SECTION 4
CHILD WELFARE OFFICER
The post of Child Welfare Officer will be appointed by the Executive Committee of the Club and not elected. The appointed person will be suitable and demonstrate an understanding of child protection issues.
The Club will ensure that all relevant support is given to the C.W.O.
The terms of reference of the C.W.O are to be as follows:
¢ To ensure that the Club has Child Welfare Policy and implementation plan and that these are reviewed whenever appropriate but not less than once each year.
¢ To ensure that all Codes of Conduct and Policies relevant to Child Welfare are well publicised and adhered to.
¢ In consultation with the County Welfare Officer (or other appropriate officer of the constituent body) to ensure that all reported incidents are managed at the appropriate level and in line with R.F.U. procedures.
¢ To ensure that all relevant Club members are aware of training opportunities.
¢ To ensure that all parents are aware of the Club's Child Welfare Policy and the appropriate protocols for voicing their concerns.
¢ The C.W.O. will be aware of local Social Services and Area Child Protection Committee contacts.
¢ The C.W.O will sit on the relevant Club Committees.
SECTION 5
RESPONDING TO DISCLOSURE, SUSPICIONS AND ALLEGATIONS
5.1. Principles
The following principles must be adopted whenever incidences of poor practice / abuse are reported by a young person.
Listen and Reassure
DO
¢ Stay Calm. Do not rush into inappropriate action. React calmly in order to not alarm the young person
¢ Reassure the young person that they are not to blame and confirm that you know how difficult it must be to confide
¢ Listen sympathetically to what the young person says and show that you take them seriously
¢ Keep questions to a minimum. The law is very strict and child abuse cases have been dismissed where the child has been led or words and ideas have been suggested. Only ask questions to clarify.
¢ Ensure that you understand what the young person has said in order that the information may be passed as accurately as possible to the appropriate agencies.
¢ Consult with the Club / the C.W.O. ensuring that you communicate all relevant information accurately
¢ Maintain confidentiality. Complete the appropriate Incident Report Form obtainable from the C.W.O. All incidents must be treated with an open mind and be handled in a fair and equitable manner. Confidentiality must be maintained until a case is proven
¢ Ensure the safety of the young person. If urgent medical attention is required, then call an ambulance, inform the paramedics of the concerns and ensure they are aware that this is a child protection issue.
DO NOT
¢ Panic or allow your feelings to be evident
¢ Make promises that you cannot keep explain that you will need to
tell other people
¢ Make the young person repeat the story unnecessarily
¢ Delay
¢ Speculate or make assumptions
¢ Approach the alleged abuser
¢ Take sole responsibility
In all cases, if you are not sure what to do, you can obtain help from the NSPCC 24 hour free phone helpline (0808 800 5000) or the R.F.U. Child Protection Line (0208 831 6655).
5.2. Record
It is important that the information that is passed to external agencies is as accurate and as helpful as possible.
Accordingly, an Incident Report Form should be submitted containing the following detail:
¢ The young person’s name, address, date of birth, ethnic origin and
any disability that they may have.
¢ The nature of the allegation.
¢ A description of any injuries / bruising.
¢ Any observations about the behaviour and emotional state of the
young person.
¢ Times, locations and dates.
¢ The young person's account in their own words of what has happened.
¢ Actions that have been taken as a result of your concerns.
¢ Whether the person writing the report is expressing their own
concerns or those of a third party.
¢ Sign and date.
¢ Keep a copy.
¢ Keep a record of the name and designation of a Social Services member of
staff or police officer to whom concerns were passed.
DO NOT INVESTIGATE ANY REPORTED INCIDENT YOURSELF
SECTION 6
TAKING APPROPRIATE ACTION
Allegations will often relate to “poor practice†(as defined above) where an adult's behaviour is inappropriate and may be causing concern to a young person, the adult's colleagues or the young person's parents.
Poor practice is unacceptable in rugby union and will be treated seriously. Appropriate action in line with current R.F.U. regulations will always be taken.
(A) Action To Be Taken If a Young Person Informs You That He / She Is Concerned About Someones Behaviour towards Them In the Rugby Setting.
1. Follow the procedures set out in Sections 5.1 and 5.2 above.
2. Follow the R.F.U. procedures as follows:
¢ Make a full record of what has been said and heard as soon as possible.
¢ Inform the C.W.O. immediately.
¢ The C.W.O. should report the matter to the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity
Manager with a copy to the C.B. Welfare Manager.
Following guidance that the issue is one of poor practice, the C.W.O. should implement the following disciplinary procedures for a first report of poor practice:
¢ Once the incident has been identified as poor practice and, in consultation with senior Club Officials (Including the Club Chairman, Youth Chairman and / or Minis Chairman), a decision will be made whether or not to suspend, temporarily, the person accused. Each case will be considered on its own merits.
¢ A disciplinary hearing may be called. The panel should be made up of
three club members with regard to the following criteria:
·no person who has been involved in bringing the case to the disciplinary hearing should sit on the panel.
·Senior management of the Club must be represented.
·if the case relates to poor coaching practice, experience in this field must be represented
¢ The accused will be advised of the report and provided with copies.
¢ The accused will be invited to attend the hearing which must be held at a convenient time for him/ her.
¢ The accused must be given sufficient advanced notice.
¢ The accused must be given the opportunity to offer his / her side of the
story and to call witnesses.
¢ Once the disciplinary panel reaches a decision it should be communicated
to the accused and confirmed in writing.
¢ A copy of the finding should be sent to the C.B. Welfare Officer and the
R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager.
¢ The disciplinary panel shall have the following powers and sanctions:
·Temporary suspension.
·Rule that the person may coach only whilst supervised.
·Direct that the person must undertake R.F.U. Best Practice and Child
Protection Course or other such appropriate course.
·Direct that the person must attend appropriate R.F.U. coaching course
·Any other sanction that it considers appropriate and proportionate.
If an individual is identified by the Club as being guilty of poor practice on subsequent occasions, then the C.B. Welfare manager, in consultation with the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager may conclude that the issue constitutes abuse and should be referred to the R.F.U. Disciplinary Officer.
Following guidance that the issue constitutes abuse, (or if the incident or issue is of such a serious nature that there is no alternative), the C.W.O. or, if the C.W.O. is unavailable, the person reporting the incident should:
¢ If the young person requires immediate medical attention:
ØAn ambulance must be called.
ØThe paramedics should be informed that the concern relates to child protection.
• Refer the allegation to the police or Social Services. They will give advice relating to the contacting of parents.
• Inform the C.B. Welfare Officer and the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager and forward a written report utilising the Incident Report Form available from the C.W.O. or containing the information in Section 5.2 above.
Non-action is not an option. The welfare of the young person is paramount
• The R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager, in consultation with the
R.F.U. Disciplinary Officer will:
ØDecide whether any individual accused of abuse should temporarily be suspended pending further Social Services or police enquiries.
ØAssess all individual cases under the appropriate misconduct and disciplinary procedures irrespective of the findings of the Social Services and police. There may be three types of investigation namely a Criminal investigation, a Child Protection investigation and a disciplinary or misconduct investigation.
(The results of Social Services and police investigations will inform the R.F.U. disciplinary investigation).
ØSeek advice from the R.F.U. Communications department as to developing a media strategy.
ØSupport the respective Club and C.B.Welfare Officers in all aspects, particularly the need to obtain appropriate support for affected young people, parents and members of staff.
• Where allegations are unfounded, the R.F.U. will work in a professional manner to ensure that the person concerned is given appropriate support to continue his or her work in rugby.
(B) Action To Be Taken if You Become aware Through Your Own Observations or Through A Third Party of Possible Abuse Occurring At A Young Persons Home or In Some Other Setting (Outside of Rugby).
The following are indicators of abuse although the presence of one or more of them is not proof that the young person is being abused:
Physical Abuse
• Current unexplained injuries.
• Inappropriate excuses to explain injury.
• Untreated injuries.
• Fear of returning home.
• Aggression towards others
Neglect
• Constant hunger and tiredness.
• Poor personal hygiene.
• Poor state or inappropriate clothing.
• Frequent lateness or absence from coaching sessions.
• Low self-esteem.
• Poor peer relationships.
Emotional Abuse
• Low self-esteem.
• Decline in concentration levels.
• Continual self-deprecation.
• Emotional immaturity.
• Extremes of behaviour.
Sexual Abuse
• Unexplained changes in behaviour.
• Inappropriate sexual awareness.
• Engaging in sexually explicit behaviour.
• Distrust of adults.
• Inappropriate language.
Sometimes changes in behaviour may relate to other significant events in a young persons life such as bereavement, internal family difficulties or bullying.
Working in partnership with parents and ensuring positive communication will help to ensure that reasons for changes in behaviour can be identified and action taken to support the young person.
If abuse is suspected, you should ensure the safety of the young person. If he or she requires immediate treatment, call an ambulance and inform the paramedics of your concerns and ensure they are aware that this is a child protection issue.
R.F.U. procedures should then be followed.
• Refer to Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of this policy.
• Report your concerns to the C.W.O.
• The C.W.O. may seek advice from the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager,
the C.B. Welfare Manager, the R.F.U. Child Protection Helpline or the N.S.P.C.C. If there is any delay in receiving advice, contact must be made with the Social Services.
• If a formal referral is made, make it clear to Social Services or the police
that this is a child protection referral
• All police forces have dedicated Child Protection Teams (C.P.T’s) which
deal with allegations of abuse within the family setting and by people in a position of trust. In a real emergency dial 999.
• Parents carers should only be contacted following advice from Social Services.
Non-action is not an option. The welfare of the young person is paramount. Delay in acting can increase the risk to the child.
In all cases, please always remember the following:
• It is often more difficult for some young people to disclose abuse than
others. Young people from ethnic minorities may have regularly
experienced racism, which may lead them to believe that certain groups,
including those in positions of authority, do not really care about their
well-being. They may well feel they have good reason to question whether
the response may be different
• Disabled young people may have to overcome additional barriers before
feeling that they can disclose abuse. They may rely on the abuser for their
daily care and not know of alternative sources of care. The abuse may be
the only attention / affection that they have experienced. There may be
communication differences and they will almost certainly have to
overcome prejudices which block our willingness to believe they may be
abused or to use their medical condition to explain away indicators which
in a non-disabled young person would concern us.
These groups of people need us to be extra vigilant and to give thought as to how we will respond.
SECTION 7
RECRUITMENT, SELECTION AND SCREENING OF STAFF, COACHES AND VOLUNTEERS
The Club recognises that anyone may have the potential to abuse young people in some way and it is important that all reasonable steps are taken to ensure that unsuitable people are prevented from working with children.
It is essential that the same procedure is used consistently throughout the game.
Under the Protection of Children Act 1999, all individuals working on behalf of the R.F.U. / R.F.U.W. are treated as employees whether paid or volunteers.
The Club will carry out the following recruitment checks:
1. Advertising
If any form of advertising is used to recruit staff, it will reflect:
• The responsibilities of the role
• The level of experience or qualification required (e.g. working with
children an advantage.)
• The R.F.U. stance on child protection
2. Applications
All adults who are in contact with young people, whether paid or voluntary should complete a prescribed application form.
3. Checks and References
3.1 All adults who have “regular supervisory contact with young people†will
undertake a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure. These adults will include:
• Professional staff
• All Managers, coaches and assistant coaches.
• Heads of the mini/midi and youth rugby sections.
• All referees who manage mini/midi and youth games.
• The C.W.O.
• Physiotherapists and First Aiders
3.2 A minimum of two written references should be taken up and at least one
should be associated with former work with young people. If an applicant has no experience of working with children, training is strongly advised.
4. Interview and Induction
• Where appropriate, all professional appointments for full or part time
positions should undergo a formal interview.
• All staff, whether paid or voluntary, must undergo a formal or informal
induction in which:
ØCoaching qualifications, if applicable, are verified.
ØTraining needs are identified.
ØThe Club’s Child Welfare Policy and Codes of Conduct and Codes of Practice are explained to the applicant and he or she agrees to abide by and enforce the terms thereof.
ØThe roles, responsibilities and expectations of the job are clarified.
ØThe Club’s Child Protection procedures are explained and training needs established.
5. Training
Appropriate training will enable individuals to recognise their responsibilities with regard to their own good practice and the reporting of poor practice or concerns of possible abuse.
The Club will ensure that:
• All adults who have regular contact with young people complete the “R.F.U.
Guide to Best Practice in Child Protection†course.
• All adults who have a coaching responsibility for young people attend an
appropriate R.F.U. coaching course
It is vital that all staff working with young people in rugby union are conversant with player-centred coaching techniques and are able to display an ability to work with young people safely and effectively.
6. Monitoring and Approval
All staff and volunteers will, at regular intervals, be given the opportunity to receive formal or informal feedback. This will enable the Club to:
• Identify training needs
• Set new goals
• Highlight concerns about inappropriate behaviour
SECTION 8
THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS AND CARERS OF YOUNG PEOPLE
The Club recognises that the involvement of the parents of its young players is vital in order to establish an adequate policy for the welfare and protection of its young players.
If, therefore, any parent has a complaint or concern about any aspect of the Club’s policies, codes of conduct and Child Welfare Policy, they are encouraged to contact the C.W.O. or other appropriate Officer of the Club such as the Chairs of the Youth or Mini’s sections or the young players team manager.
Should the parents concerns relate to allegations of poor practice or possible abuse, the procedures set out in Section 6 above should be adopted.
Parents will agree to familiarise themselves with and comply with the provisions of the “Good Parents Code†in Appendix 5 and the “Good Spectators Code†in Appendix 6.
The Club requires parents to authorise the Club to act in loco parentis when the parents are not able to be present and the parents will sign any requisite consents and authorities authorising Club officers to act in such manner as they deem reasonably necessary for the health and safety of their children.
From a behavioural aspect, parents must not use extreme behaviour either on the side of the pitch or in the Clubhouse whilst young people are about. Such behaviour may cause distress to the young people and is harmful to the image of the Club.
Should a parent use such behaviour the Club will sanction the temporary or permanent removal of the parent from Club premises and, if applicable, terminate the parent’s membership of the Club without refund of the membership fee paid.
Supervision of Young People
No young player in the Under 6, Under 7 and Under 8 sections may be left unattended at the Club (if in the future C.DR.F.C. runs these age groups).
The parent or an alternative appointed adult should remain with the young person at the Club at all times. If a parent has to leave the Club for any reason during a training session or match, a suitable adult should be appointed to supervise the young person.
The situation should be reported to the manager of the young player’s team and the adult assuming responsibility for the child should be identified to the manager.
Medical Conditions
The Club needs to be aware of any ailments or injuries that a young person might suffer from as this may affect what activities they may undertake.
Parents must, therefore, complete the medical questions on the registration form and must, also, advise the young person’s team manager should the young person suffer from any illness or injury during the course of the season.
If you feel for any reason that your child is not fit to partake in training or play a game, you must not send them to the Club. If the young person does have a minor injury which is not sufficiently serious to prevent them from training or playing, the relevant injury must be properly and appropriately dressed and treated.
First Aid Cover and Medical Care
The Club will ensure that there are qualified First Aiders on hand to deal with minor injuries.
For serious injuries sustained by a young player whilst training / playing at Holly’s Corner, the Accident and Emergency unit of the Royal United Hospital, Combe Park, Bath, will be used wherever possible.
Where practicable, you will be asked to go with your child in the ambulance. However, if you are not available, the Club will assume that it may act in loco parentis and take whatever steps it considers reasonably necessary for the care and welfare of your child.
An acknowledgement to this effect will be signed by the parents when completing the young person’s registration form.
If a young person becomes unwell or is injured whilst under the supervision of the Club and it is the opinion of a First Aider and the young person’s team Manager that it would be to the young person’s detriment to remain on site, the following procedure will be adopted:
• The young person will be removed from activities that are likely to cause a
deterioration in the young persons health or physical condition and, if
deemed necessary (by the young persons parents in the first instance or a
proper officer of the Club if the parents are not immediately available),
taken to hospital accompanied by at least two officers of the Club.
• If applicable, the Club will contact the young persons parents and inform
them of the situation
• The incident will be recorded by the young persons team manager and / or
coach and/or the First Aider in the Club’s Accident Report Book and on
the Incident Record Form (Appendix 9).
• If the parents of the young person cannot be contacted, the Club will
ensure that an appropriate person remains with the young person at all times until a parent is able to take over supervision.
Concussion
This is a very serious condition and has quite specific symptoms. Any young person who suffers concussion will automatically be rested from training and matches for a minimum of three weeks. The young person will only be permitted to return to rugby after this time if they have a written certificate from their Doctor that it is safe for them so to do.
Returning players will not immediately take part, if applicable, in contact rugby. They will be “eased†back into the game whilst their team manager assesses their condition and ensures that it is safe for them to resume the game proper.
If your child suffers a head injury away from the Club, you must report this to your child’s team manager. If you do not inform the Club of such an injury, the Club will assume that it is safe for your child to train or play.
If a head injury is suffered whilst training or playing, such injury will, for the avoidance of doubt, be considered as possible concussion unless there is a compelling reason to conclude that the injury has not resulted in concussion.
A player sustaining such an injury will immediately be suspended from further training or play and will be released to his or her parent with a request that medical advice is immediately sought. This is irrespective of the wishes of the parent or manager of the child: the welfare of the child is paramount.
Children Taking Medication
Young people who take medication of any kind will be responsible for administering it themselves: under no circumstances will any manager, coach or other officer of the Club accept responsibility for securing or administering a young persons medication.
If medication is brought to the Club, it must be clearly labelled with the young persons name and must clearly identify the contents.
Notwithstanding the above, the Club will encourage managers, coaches and First Aiders to exercise a “common sense†approach to the administration and handling of medication on a case-by-case basis.
SECTION 9
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The Club will have close regard to its health and safety responsibilities and will carry out formal risk assessments at least once in each season to ensure the safe and competent coaching of rugby.
APPENDIX 1
POLICY ON BULLYING
C.D.R.F.C. Rugby Football Club (“the Clubâ€Â) takes seriously the problems caused by bullying and is committed to providing an environment in which bullying or any other form of harassment are not tolerated in any form.
The Club will ensure that all of its members (which includes its employees, coaches, players, officials, volunteer helpers and parents) subscribe to, and agree to be bound by, the Club’s policy on bullying and will ensure that its members acknowledge that they have a duty to ensure that the policy is observed by others.
It is appreciated that “bullying†is not always easy to define and may not necessarily consist of an isolated incident of an adult abusing a young person.
Bullying usually takes place over a period of time and the bully may be an adult as well as a young person.
Three main types of bullying exist:-
1.Physical (Examples include):
• Hitting
• Kicking
• Unwanted physical contact
• Theft
• Any other form of violence
2. Verbal (Examples include):
• Racist or homophobic remarks
• Name-calling
• Sarcasm
• Spreading rumours
• Tormenting
• Ridiculing
• Taunting
• Abusive or offensive comments of a sexual nature
3.Emotional (Examples include):
• Threats
• Persistent negative feedback
Bullying behaviour will also include:
• Deliberate hostility and aggression towards the victim and
• A victim who is physically or emotionally weaker than the bully and
• An outcome which is always painful and distressing for the victim
Examples of bullying include but are not limited to:
• A parent who pushes their child too hard
• A coach who adopts a “win at all costs†philosophy
• A player who intimidates others
• An official who is over-officious
It is the duty of each member of the Club to report any incident or suspicion of bullying to the C.W.O. and to complete the Incident Report Form (Appendix 9)or such other Form as shall be required. Upon receipt of such report, the C.W.O. will:
• Take and treat each such report seriously and
• Investigate the incident and
• Talk, separately and in confidence, to the victim and the bully and
• Take whatever further action is considered to be necessary and
• Provide support for the victim
• Liaise with the Chairman of the Club and the Chairman of the Section (Youth or Mini) to which the victim and the bully belong
If the victim and the bully are both young persons and the C.W.O. considers that the incident so warrants it, the C.W.O. may deal the matter in one or more of the following ways namely:
• By ensuring that the bully apologise to the victim
• Informing the parents of the bully
•Insisting upon the return of any items “borrowed†or stolen
• By dealing with the matter in any other appropriate manner and proportionately to the seriousness of the incident
If either the victim or the bully is an adult (although the incident is not considered by the C.W.O. to constitute “Poor Practice†or “Abuse†for which separate procedures are prescribed) or if both the victim and bully are young persons and the incident is considered by the C.W.O. to be serious the C.W.O. must refer the matter, as soon as is reasonably practicable, to a disciplinary panel which will convene within five working days to consider the matter.
The Disciplinary panel should be made up of three Club members with regard to the following criteria:
• No person who has been involved in bringing the case to the disciplinary
hearing should sit on the panel
• The Executive Committee of the Club must be represented
The Disciplinary Panel will consider the matter having regard to any representations that it may seek from any relevant parties.
The parent of any young person involved will be informed of the progress and outcome and invited to make representations to the Disciplinary Panel.
Sanctions that may be imposed by the Disciplinary Panel include but are not limited to the following:
• Permanent or temporary exclusion from the Club or pitchside
• Conditions imposed upon attendance (e.g. must be accompanied by
parent)
• Person may only coach whilst supervised
In conclusion, it is accepted that rugby union is a physical game and one during which emotions can “run high†both in training and in match situations. As a result there will inevitably be isolated incidents caused by a lack or breakdown of discipline.
It is, however, possible, by using common sense, to distinguish such incidents from pre-meditated or orchestrated incidents of bullying. It is the latter incidents that have to be eradicated from all aspects of the game if we are to continue to attract young people to the game and to ensure that they are allowed to develop to the best of their ability within it.
APPENDIX 2
EQUITY POLICY STATEMENT
The Club is committed to ensuring that equity is incorporated across all aspects of its development. In so doing, it acknowledges and adopts the following Sports England definition of “Sports Equity:â€Â
Sports equity is about fairness in sport, equality of access, recognising inequalities and taking steps to address them. It is about changing the culture and structure of sport to ensure it becomes equally accessible to everyone in society.
The Club respects the rights, dignity and worth of every person and will treat everyone equally within the context of their sport, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religious belief, sexuality or social/economic status.
The Club is committed to everyone having the right to enjoy their sport in an environment free from threat of intimidation, harassment and abuse. All Club members have a responsibility to oppose discriminatory behaviour and promote equality of opportunity.
The Club will deal with any incidence of discriminatory behaviour seriously according to Club disciplinary procedures.
APPENDIX 3
CODE OF CONDUCT, ETHICS AND PRACTICE FOR COACHES OF YOUNG PERSONS
1. Introduction
All adults who work with young people are in a position of trust that has been invested in them by the parents, the sport and the young person. This relationship can be described as one in which the adult is in a position of power and influence by virtue of their role. Coaches, as well as others, must recognise that this relationship is reliant upon mutual trust and respect and is governed by certain “boundaries†which must not be crossed.
The following Code has been drafted, insofar as possible, to define those boundaries.
The Code informs coaches of their responsibilities and the minimum standard of behaviour that is expected of them in order to comply with the requirements of the Clubs Child Welfare Policy and to ensure that best practice is adopted in their dealings with young persons.
Each coach will be called upon to warrant that they have read, understood and will abide by the terms of the Code and the Clubs Child Welfare Policy.
This Code will be reviewed before the commencement of each season or at any other time that is deemed necessary. Amendments to the Code will be published and coaches will be made aware of them.
Advice and guidance on the Code may be obtained from the C.W.O. or other appropriate officer. Coaches are encouraged to discuss the provisions of the Code and to put forward suggestions as to how the Code may be modified or adapted in order to improve the standard of care provided by the Club.
It is understood that any breaches of this Code may lead to a disciplinary or other enquiry at Club, regional or higher level.
The Code as follows is not to be considered as definitive and is not intended to be a substitute for common sense which should be exercised at all times.
2.Code
Coaches of young people should:
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person with whom
they work and treat them equally within the context of the game of rugby
union.
• Remember that young people play for fun and enjoyment and that winning
is only a part of this. Most learning is achieved through the use of
techniques that combine fun and enjoyment.
• Appreciate the needs of the young people before the needs of the sport.
• Place the physical and emotional well-being of all young people above all
other considerations, including the development of performance.
• Recognise the relationship that a rugby coach develops with the players
with whom they work must be based on mutual trust and respect.
• Clarify with the young players (and their parents) what is expected of
them both on and off the rugby field and also what they are entitled to
expect of the coach.
• Make all young players feel valued whatever their ability: recognise and
praise good play by all players.
• Coach only to the limitations of their knowledge and qualifications.
• Understand that most learning is achieved through doing.
• Encourage young players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour
and performance.
• Never ignore poor practice, behaviour or bad coaching technique in others.
Refer the matter to the C.W.O. or other proper officer of the Club.
• Coach to the rules laid down in the Rugby Continuum and keep
themselves updated on changes to the Continuum and the I.R.B. Laws of
the Game.
• Ensure that they are conversant with current coaching practice by ensuring
that they hold a current R.F.U. Coaching Award. The Club requires that all
coaches attain the Level 1 Certificate before or as soon as reasonably
practicable after they have commenced coaching.
• Motivate young people through positive verbal feedback in a constructive
and encouraging manner to all players during coaching sessions and
matches.
• Provide rugby experiences that are matched by the young player’s ages
and abilities as well as their physical and behavioural development.
• Treat games against other clubs as lessons and opportunities to learn and
not as “tests.â€Â
• Avoid the overplaying of players (particularly talented players) by using a
squad system. All players need and deserve an equal opportunity to play.
• Be a positive role model and consistently display the highest standards of
personal behaviour and appearance.
• Find out the facts relating to child development and the physical,
intellectual and emotional capabilities of the age group with which you
work.
• Start and finish coaching sessions on time.
• Plan coaching sessions and the season.
• Not drink alcohol before or during coaching sessions
• Not smoke during coaching sessions.
• Never use inappropriate language or allow young players to use
inappropriate language unchallenged.
• Keep winning and losing in perspective: encourage young players to
behave with dignity in all circumstances.
• Educate their players to treat their opponents with dignity and respect and
to avoid behaviour that may be construed as unsporting such as the over-
celebration of a try or victory.
• Respect all referees and the decisions that they make, even if they appear
to make a mistake, and ensure that their young players recognise that they
must do the same.
• Reinforce to the parents of their players that they must comply with the
provisions of the “Good Parents Code†(Appendix 5) and “Good
Spectators Code†(Appendix 6.)
• Always promote the positive aspects of the sport e.g. fair play. Violations
of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of
the Game or relevant regulations or the use of prohibited techniques or
substances must never be coached nor condoned.
• Work in partnership with others within the game (officials, doctors,
physiotherapists, sports scientists) to ensure the well being, safety and
enjoyment of all young players.
• Develop an awareness of nutrition as part of an overall education in
lifestyle management.
• Ensure that the activities which they coach, direct or advocate are
appropriate to the age, maturity and ability of the players.
• Ensure that their knowledge and coaching strategies are up to date and in line with R.F.U. philosophy. This is especially so with regard to the coaching of contact skills which must be coached in accordance with the Rugby Continuum and with regard to the physical development of the young players.
• Ensure all young players are coached in a safe environment with First Aid readily to hand.
• Ensure the safety of the young players that you are coaching by making sure that they use safety equipment and facilities that are appropriate to the age and abilities of the young players. Appropriate clothing for the conditions must be worn and the playing / training area must be safe and free from hazardous material. To fail to do this could constitute “neglect.â€Â
• Ensure that a register is kept of all players attending each training session or match and that the register specifically records the number of games played by each player.
• Ensure good supervision of young players both on and, where appropriate, off the field.
• Be aware of, and abide by, the policies and procedures outlined in the “Policy and Procedures for the Welfare of Young People in Rugby Union.â€Â
• Be aware of, and abide by, the R.F.U. recommended procedures for taking young people on residential tours at home and abroad.
• Ensure that, where mixed sex teams compete away from home, they are accompanied by at least one male and one female adult.
• Never allow themselves to be placed in a position where they may be open to allegations of “Abuse†e.g. never share a room or changing room or spend time with a young person away from others. Avoid taking young people alone on car journeys, however short and other situations where you and a young person are completely unobserved. If such situations are unavoidable, they should only take place with the full knowledge and consent of an officer of the Club and / or the parent of the young person.
• Report to the C.W.O. and / or other officer of the Club as soon as is reasonably practicable any incident whereby the coach accidentally hurts a player, or causes distress in any manner, or the young person appears to respond in a sexual manner to the coaches actions or misunderstands or misinterprets something that the coach has done. Such report must be supported by a written report of the incident as soon as possible. The parent or guardian of any young person involved must be informed of the occurrence and the manner in which it will be investigated and dealt with.
• Ensure that no young person takes part each season in more than the
maximum number of permitted games as provided for in the Continuum.
• Never ridicule, belittle or overtly criticise young players or use language
or actions which may cause players to lose self-esteem and confidence or
which will undermine the young player. To do so may be construed as
â€Åâââ€
FOOTBALL CLUB
www.combedownrfc.com
POLICY AND PROCEDURES FOR THE WELFARE AND
PROTECTION OF YOUNG PERSONS
April 2008
Editors Notes
It is beyond any doubt that Child Protection issues are an extremely important consideration in the running of any sporting club or society which has young people among its members.
Whether or not it is considered likely that the young members of C.D.R.F.C. are at risk, the stark fact remains, whether we like it or not, that the opportunity exists for a child's safety and welfare to be put at risk. This applies equally to any sporting (or other) club in which young people interact with adults who are considered to be in a position of trust.
As a club, and as individuals, C.D.R.F.C. and its members, coaches, officers and staff owe each and every young player an obligation to ensure their safety and welfare.
To reflect the Club's commitment to the care of its young members, a Child Welfare Policy has been drafted.
The policy, as it states in Section 2, will be dynamic. That is to say that it will be constantly reviewed. To successfully review the policy and in order to ensure that it remains workable and relevant in all respects, the input of the managers, coaches, parents and everyone who is involved with the Club will be welcomed.
I have extracted the main elements from existing published guidance notes and set them out in this Policy. This has the advantage of keeping all of the Club's Codes, Guidance and Policies in the one document.
It is important that, for the reasons stated above, this Policy is read and understood by all coaches and those having contact with young people at the Club : they will be asked to sign an acknowledgement to the effect that hey have done this and will abide by the terms of the Policy.
Finally, please bear in mind that the Policy is not a substitute for plain common sense. Most of what is set out in the Policy will be obvious to most, if not all, of us but cannot possibly, deal with every scenario that may present itself. Here, common sense should be used and, if in doubt, ask.
Paul Ashman
Chairman C.D.R.F.C.
SECTION 1
POLICY STATEMENT
C.D.R.F.C. Rugby Football Club (the ClubÂ) recognises that the welfare of all young people is paramount and that it has a legal and moral obligation to protect all young persons whatever their age, culture, gender, disability, language, racial origin, religious belief or sexual identity from physical, emotional or sexual harm and from neglect or bullying of any kind and to ensure that a secure and safe environment is provided for the coaching and playing of rugby union by all young people.
The Club will adopt best practice and the highest standard of care in order to ensure the safety and welfare of the young people to whom it owes a duty of care and it will work in partnership with the parents of young people wherever appropriate for the implementation of this policy.
SECTION 2
INTRODUCTION
The Club recognises that abuse does take place in sport and is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all young persons to who it may owe a duty of care in order that they may enjoy rugby union in a secure and safe environment.
The Club WILL NOT TOLERATE any form of abuse towards the young people to who it considers that it owes a duty of care.
This Policy will be facilitated by:
1.Raising awareness and understanding of the main forms of abuse and poor practice and taking all reasonable steps to ensure that incidences of suspected poor practice and abuse are reported in accordance with the terms of this policy.
2.Having in place Codes of Conduct, Policies and procedures to reinforce good practice and prevent incidents of abuse.
The Club has the following Codes and Policies:
¢ A Policy on Bullying (Appendix 1)
¢ An Equity Policy (Appendix 2)
¢ A Code of Conduct, Ethics and Practice for Coaches (Appendix 3).
¢ A Good Match Officials Code (Appendix 4)
¢ A Good Parents Code (Appendix 5)
¢ A Good Spectators Code (Appendix 6)
¢ A Good Players Code (Appendix 7)
¢ A Policy Statement Relating to the Photographing or Videoing of Young
People (Appendix 8)
¢ A Health and Safety Policy (Section 9)
·RFU Incident Report Form (Appendix 9)
·Acknowledgement of Policy and Procedures (Appendix 10)
3.Ensuring that procedures are in place to protect the young person first and foremost when suspected abuse or actual abuse is reported and that everyone over who the Club has jurisdiction is aware of and understands these procedures.
4.Ensuring that all suspicions and allegations of abuse are taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
5.Establishing reporting and disciplinary procedures should abuse be alleged and subsequently established.
6.Appointing a Child Welfare Officer (C.W.O.Â) who will act as the first point of contact for concerns about the welfare of young people.
7.Having in place practice and procedures for the recruitment and screening of staff, coaches and volunteers.
8.Having in place and reviewing as often as is appropriate a Health and Safety Policy.
9.Ensuring that all persons involved with young people and over which the Club has jurisdiction:
¢ Undertake a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure.
¢ Are made aware of their responsibilities and of the terms of this
Policy and will comply with its provisions.
¢ Undertake relevant training as and when, in the absolute discretion
of the Child Welfare Officer, it is deemed necessary.
¢ Are regularly assessed by the C.W.O. or other suitably qualified
Officer of the Club with regard to the practices and procedures
adopted by them in their dealings with young people.
10. Recognising that it is essential to work in partnership with the parents of young people in the review and enforcement of this policy.
This Policy will be applicable to dealings with any young person who is:
¢ A member of the Club whether on Club premises or any other place whilst under the control and supervision of Club personnel and
¢ Any other young person whilst on Club premises.
The Club accepts that matters of interpretation may arise regarding this Policy and it encourages that such matters be referred to the C.W.O. or other appropriate officer for determination and guidance.
It is recognised that in order to successfully achieve its purpose from time to time the Policy has to be dynamic and must evolve and be reviewed as regularly as is appropriate but in any event not less than once in each year. All input from those involved with young people at the Club or with relevant experience is to be welcomed.
In this Policy a young person is anyone who is aged 17 years or less at midnight on the 31st August immediately prior to the start of any rugby season.
The words and phrases young player/sÂ, young people and child / children are, also, used in this Policy instead of young person where the context dictates.
The word parent in this Policy shall include reference to the guardian, carer or any other person with parental responsibility for a young person. This Policy should be read in conjunction with comparable publications produced by or on behalf of the sport's National Governing Body.
SECTION 3
RECOGNISING ABUSE AND POOR PRACTICE
Abuse is an emotive word and in the context of this Policy is used to describe the ways in which young people are harmed, usually, by individuals in a position of authority and that they know and trust.
Coaches and others working with young people hold this trust and may be at risk of misusing their power of the young players.
In order to provide young people with the best possible experiences and opportunities in rugby union, it is important that everyone involved operates within an accepted ethical framework and complies with the terms of this Policy and all applicable Codes of Conduct.
This will ensure that, firstly, the welfare of the young players is safeguarded and, secondly, that all relevant personnel are protected from false allegations of abuse or poor practice.
Poor Practice and abuse may not be easy to differentiate and is recognised that those involved with young people are not necessarily experts in distinguishing between the two. However, all persons involved with young people have a responsibility to act if they suspect poor practice and possible abuse by reporting their concerns in accordance with the procedures contained in this Policy.
“Poor Practice†may be considered to be any behaviour or practice which includes (but is not limited to) the following:
¢ failure to fulfil the highest standard of care which is expected of a coach or
other relevant person dealing with the young players or
¢ contravention of the Coaches Code of Conduct, Ethics and Practice
(Appendix 3) or
¢ contravention of the Club's Equity Policy (Appendix 2) or
¢ Infringement on the rights of the young players.
Abuse consists of four main types:
1. Emotional Abuse
This is the persistent ill treatment of a young person such as to cause severe and persistent adverse affects on their emotional development. It may involve conveying to young people that they are worthless or inadequate. It may, also involve children feeling
frightened or that they are in danger by constantly being shouted at, threatened or taunted which may make the child nervous or withdrawn
Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill-treatment of young people.
In a rugby context, emotional abuse may occur when young people:
¢ Receive repeated negative feedback, criticism or are subject to name-
calling, bullying or sarcasm.
¢ Are repeatedly ignored in their efforts to progress.
¢ Have consistently demanded of them performance levels beyond those of
which the young person is capable.
¢ Are over-indoctrinated with the winning ethic.
2. Neglect
This is where those responsible for young people fail, or refuse, to meet the young person's basic physical and / or psychological needs such as are likely to result in a serious impairment of the young person's health or development.
In a rugby context neglect could include young people being:
¢ Left alone without adequate supervision.
¢ Unnecessarily exposed to extremes of temperature without fluids or
protection.
¢ Exposed to unacceptable risk of injury.
¢ Failing to ensure that adequate medical care is available.
3. Physical Abuse
This is occurs when individuals, including other young people, deliberately inflict injuries on another young person or, knowingly, do not take such steps as are reasonable, to prevent such injuries or such other injury as is reasonably foreseeable.
In a rugby context physical abuse may consist of a young person being:
¢ Exposed to training programmes or exercises which disregards the
capacity of a young player's immature and growing body.
¢ Over-played or over-trained to the point of unacceptable levels of fatigue.
¢ Exposed to, or encouraged to consume, alcohol or performance enhancing drugs.
¢ Treated contrary to the Clubs Policy on Bullying
4. Sexual Abuse
This consists of the use of young people to meet the sexual needs of those in a position of trust (whether male or female) or by such persons suggesting that sexual favours may help (or refusal hinder) the young persons sporting career.
Apart from forcing a young person to take part in a physical sexual activity, sexual abuse may also consist of the exposure of a young person to pornographic material. In rugby, coaching techniques that involve physical contact with young people could, potentially, create situations where sexual abuse may go unnoticed.
SECTION 4
CHILD WELFARE OFFICER
The post of Child Welfare Officer will be appointed by the Executive Committee of the Club and not elected. The appointed person will be suitable and demonstrate an understanding of child protection issues.
The Club will ensure that all relevant support is given to the C.W.O.
The terms of reference of the C.W.O are to be as follows:
¢ To ensure that the Club has Child Welfare Policy and implementation plan and that these are reviewed whenever appropriate but not less than once each year.
¢ To ensure that all Codes of Conduct and Policies relevant to Child Welfare are well publicised and adhered to.
¢ In consultation with the County Welfare Officer (or other appropriate officer of the constituent body) to ensure that all reported incidents are managed at the appropriate level and in line with R.F.U. procedures.
¢ To ensure that all relevant Club members are aware of training opportunities.
¢ To ensure that all parents are aware of the Club's Child Welfare Policy and the appropriate protocols for voicing their concerns.
¢ The C.W.O. will be aware of local Social Services and Area Child Protection Committee contacts.
¢ The C.W.O will sit on the relevant Club Committees.
SECTION 5
RESPONDING TO DISCLOSURE, SUSPICIONS AND ALLEGATIONS
5.1. Principles
The following principles must be adopted whenever incidences of poor practice / abuse are reported by a young person.
Listen and Reassure
DO
¢ Stay Calm. Do not rush into inappropriate action. React calmly in order to not alarm the young person
¢ Reassure the young person that they are not to blame and confirm that you know how difficult it must be to confide
¢ Listen sympathetically to what the young person says and show that you take them seriously
¢ Keep questions to a minimum. The law is very strict and child abuse cases have been dismissed where the child has been led or words and ideas have been suggested. Only ask questions to clarify.
¢ Ensure that you understand what the young person has said in order that the information may be passed as accurately as possible to the appropriate agencies.
¢ Consult with the Club / the C.W.O. ensuring that you communicate all relevant information accurately
¢ Maintain confidentiality. Complete the appropriate Incident Report Form obtainable from the C.W.O. All incidents must be treated with an open mind and be handled in a fair and equitable manner. Confidentiality must be maintained until a case is proven
¢ Ensure the safety of the young person. If urgent medical attention is required, then call an ambulance, inform the paramedics of the concerns and ensure they are aware that this is a child protection issue.
DO NOT
¢ Panic or allow your feelings to be evident
¢ Make promises that you cannot keep explain that you will need to
tell other people
¢ Make the young person repeat the story unnecessarily
¢ Delay
¢ Speculate or make assumptions
¢ Approach the alleged abuser
¢ Take sole responsibility
In all cases, if you are not sure what to do, you can obtain help from the NSPCC 24 hour free phone helpline (0808 800 5000) or the R.F.U. Child Protection Line (0208 831 6655).
5.2. Record
It is important that the information that is passed to external agencies is as accurate and as helpful as possible.
Accordingly, an Incident Report Form should be submitted containing the following detail:
¢ The young person’s name, address, date of birth, ethnic origin and
any disability that they may have.
¢ The nature of the allegation.
¢ A description of any injuries / bruising.
¢ Any observations about the behaviour and emotional state of the
young person.
¢ Times, locations and dates.
¢ The young person's account in their own words of what has happened.
¢ Actions that have been taken as a result of your concerns.
¢ Whether the person writing the report is expressing their own
concerns or those of a third party.
¢ Sign and date.
¢ Keep a copy.
¢ Keep a record of the name and designation of a Social Services member of
staff or police officer to whom concerns were passed.
DO NOT INVESTIGATE ANY REPORTED INCIDENT YOURSELF
SECTION 6
TAKING APPROPRIATE ACTION
Allegations will often relate to “poor practice†(as defined above) where an adult's behaviour is inappropriate and may be causing concern to a young person, the adult's colleagues or the young person's parents.
Poor practice is unacceptable in rugby union and will be treated seriously. Appropriate action in line with current R.F.U. regulations will always be taken.
(A) Action To Be Taken If a Young Person Informs You That He / She Is Concerned About Someones Behaviour towards Them In the Rugby Setting.
1. Follow the procedures set out in Sections 5.1 and 5.2 above.
2. Follow the R.F.U. procedures as follows:
¢ Make a full record of what has been said and heard as soon as possible.
¢ Inform the C.W.O. immediately.
¢ The C.W.O. should report the matter to the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity
Manager with a copy to the C.B. Welfare Manager.
Following guidance that the issue is one of poor practice, the C.W.O. should implement the following disciplinary procedures for a first report of poor practice:
¢ Once the incident has been identified as poor practice and, in consultation with senior Club Officials (Including the Club Chairman, Youth Chairman and / or Minis Chairman), a decision will be made whether or not to suspend, temporarily, the person accused. Each case will be considered on its own merits.
¢ A disciplinary hearing may be called. The panel should be made up of
three club members with regard to the following criteria:
·no person who has been involved in bringing the case to the disciplinary hearing should sit on the panel.
·Senior management of the Club must be represented.
·if the case relates to poor coaching practice, experience in this field must be represented
¢ The accused will be advised of the report and provided with copies.
¢ The accused will be invited to attend the hearing which must be held at a convenient time for him/ her.
¢ The accused must be given sufficient advanced notice.
¢ The accused must be given the opportunity to offer his / her side of the
story and to call witnesses.
¢ Once the disciplinary panel reaches a decision it should be communicated
to the accused and confirmed in writing.
¢ A copy of the finding should be sent to the C.B. Welfare Officer and the
R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager.
¢ The disciplinary panel shall have the following powers and sanctions:
·Temporary suspension.
·Rule that the person may coach only whilst supervised.
·Direct that the person must undertake R.F.U. Best Practice and Child
Protection Course or other such appropriate course.
·Direct that the person must attend appropriate R.F.U. coaching course
·Any other sanction that it considers appropriate and proportionate.
If an individual is identified by the Club as being guilty of poor practice on subsequent occasions, then the C.B. Welfare manager, in consultation with the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager may conclude that the issue constitutes abuse and should be referred to the R.F.U. Disciplinary Officer.
Following guidance that the issue constitutes abuse, (or if the incident or issue is of such a serious nature that there is no alternative), the C.W.O. or, if the C.W.O. is unavailable, the person reporting the incident should:
¢ If the young person requires immediate medical attention:
ØAn ambulance must be called.
ØThe paramedics should be informed that the concern relates to child protection.
• Refer the allegation to the police or Social Services. They will give advice relating to the contacting of parents.
• Inform the C.B. Welfare Officer and the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager and forward a written report utilising the Incident Report Form available from the C.W.O. or containing the information in Section 5.2 above.
Non-action is not an option. The welfare of the young person is paramount
• The R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager, in consultation with the
R.F.U. Disciplinary Officer will:
ØDecide whether any individual accused of abuse should temporarily be suspended pending further Social Services or police enquiries.
ØAssess all individual cases under the appropriate misconduct and disciplinary procedures irrespective of the findings of the Social Services and police. There may be three types of investigation namely a Criminal investigation, a Child Protection investigation and a disciplinary or misconduct investigation.
(The results of Social Services and police investigations will inform the R.F.U. disciplinary investigation).
ØSeek advice from the R.F.U. Communications department as to developing a media strategy.
ØSupport the respective Club and C.B.Welfare Officers in all aspects, particularly the need to obtain appropriate support for affected young people, parents and members of staff.
• Where allegations are unfounded, the R.F.U. will work in a professional manner to ensure that the person concerned is given appropriate support to continue his or her work in rugby.
(B) Action To Be Taken if You Become aware Through Your Own Observations or Through A Third Party of Possible Abuse Occurring At A Young Persons Home or In Some Other Setting (Outside of Rugby).
The following are indicators of abuse although the presence of one or more of them is not proof that the young person is being abused:
Physical Abuse
• Current unexplained injuries.
• Inappropriate excuses to explain injury.
• Untreated injuries.
• Fear of returning home.
• Aggression towards others
Neglect
• Constant hunger and tiredness.
• Poor personal hygiene.
• Poor state or inappropriate clothing.
• Frequent lateness or absence from coaching sessions.
• Low self-esteem.
• Poor peer relationships.
Emotional Abuse
• Low self-esteem.
• Decline in concentration levels.
• Continual self-deprecation.
• Emotional immaturity.
• Extremes of behaviour.
Sexual Abuse
• Unexplained changes in behaviour.
• Inappropriate sexual awareness.
• Engaging in sexually explicit behaviour.
• Distrust of adults.
• Inappropriate language.
Sometimes changes in behaviour may relate to other significant events in a young persons life such as bereavement, internal family difficulties or bullying.
Working in partnership with parents and ensuring positive communication will help to ensure that reasons for changes in behaviour can be identified and action taken to support the young person.
If abuse is suspected, you should ensure the safety of the young person. If he or she requires immediate treatment, call an ambulance and inform the paramedics of your concerns and ensure they are aware that this is a child protection issue.
R.F.U. procedures should then be followed.
• Refer to Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of this policy.
• Report your concerns to the C.W.O.
• The C.W.O. may seek advice from the R.F.U. Ethics and Equity Manager,
the C.B. Welfare Manager, the R.F.U. Child Protection Helpline or the N.S.P.C.C. If there is any delay in receiving advice, contact must be made with the Social Services.
• If a formal referral is made, make it clear to Social Services or the police
that this is a child protection referral
• All police forces have dedicated Child Protection Teams (C.P.T’s) which
deal with allegations of abuse within the family setting and by people in a position of trust. In a real emergency dial 999.
• Parents carers should only be contacted following advice from Social Services.
Non-action is not an option. The welfare of the young person is paramount. Delay in acting can increase the risk to the child.
In all cases, please always remember the following:
• It is often more difficult for some young people to disclose abuse than
others. Young people from ethnic minorities may have regularly
experienced racism, which may lead them to believe that certain groups,
including those in positions of authority, do not really care about their
well-being. They may well feel they have good reason to question whether
the response may be different
• Disabled young people may have to overcome additional barriers before
feeling that they can disclose abuse. They may rely on the abuser for their
daily care and not know of alternative sources of care. The abuse may be
the only attention / affection that they have experienced. There may be
communication differences and they will almost certainly have to
overcome prejudices which block our willingness to believe they may be
abused or to use their medical condition to explain away indicators which
in a non-disabled young person would concern us.
These groups of people need us to be extra vigilant and to give thought as to how we will respond.
SECTION 7
RECRUITMENT, SELECTION AND SCREENING OF STAFF, COACHES AND VOLUNTEERS
The Club recognises that anyone may have the potential to abuse young people in some way and it is important that all reasonable steps are taken to ensure that unsuitable people are prevented from working with children.
It is essential that the same procedure is used consistently throughout the game.
Under the Protection of Children Act 1999, all individuals working on behalf of the R.F.U. / R.F.U.W. are treated as employees whether paid or volunteers.
The Club will carry out the following recruitment checks:
1. Advertising
If any form of advertising is used to recruit staff, it will reflect:
• The responsibilities of the role
• The level of experience or qualification required (e.g. working with
children an advantage.)
• The R.F.U. stance on child protection
2. Applications
All adults who are in contact with young people, whether paid or voluntary should complete a prescribed application form.
3. Checks and References
3.1 All adults who have “regular supervisory contact with young people†will
undertake a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure. These adults will include:
• Professional staff
• All Managers, coaches and assistant coaches.
• Heads of the mini/midi and youth rugby sections.
• All referees who manage mini/midi and youth games.
• The C.W.O.
• Physiotherapists and First Aiders
3.2 A minimum of two written references should be taken up and at least one
should be associated with former work with young people. If an applicant has no experience of working with children, training is strongly advised.
4. Interview and Induction
• Where appropriate, all professional appointments for full or part time
positions should undergo a formal interview.
• All staff, whether paid or voluntary, must undergo a formal or informal
induction in which:
ØCoaching qualifications, if applicable, are verified.
ØTraining needs are identified.
ØThe Club’s Child Welfare Policy and Codes of Conduct and Codes of Practice are explained to the applicant and he or she agrees to abide by and enforce the terms thereof.
ØThe roles, responsibilities and expectations of the job are clarified.
ØThe Club’s Child Protection procedures are explained and training needs established.
5. Training
Appropriate training will enable individuals to recognise their responsibilities with regard to their own good practice and the reporting of poor practice or concerns of possible abuse.
The Club will ensure that:
• All adults who have regular contact with young people complete the “R.F.U.
Guide to Best Practice in Child Protection†course.
• All adults who have a coaching responsibility for young people attend an
appropriate R.F.U. coaching course
It is vital that all staff working with young people in rugby union are conversant with player-centred coaching techniques and are able to display an ability to work with young people safely and effectively.
6. Monitoring and Approval
All staff and volunteers will, at regular intervals, be given the opportunity to receive formal or informal feedback. This will enable the Club to:
• Identify training needs
• Set new goals
• Highlight concerns about inappropriate behaviour
SECTION 8
THE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS AND CARERS OF YOUNG PEOPLE
The Club recognises that the involvement of the parents of its young players is vital in order to establish an adequate policy for the welfare and protection of its young players.
If, therefore, any parent has a complaint or concern about any aspect of the Club’s policies, codes of conduct and Child Welfare Policy, they are encouraged to contact the C.W.O. or other appropriate Officer of the Club such as the Chairs of the Youth or Mini’s sections or the young players team manager.
Should the parents concerns relate to allegations of poor practice or possible abuse, the procedures set out in Section 6 above should be adopted.
Parents will agree to familiarise themselves with and comply with the provisions of the “Good Parents Code†in Appendix 5 and the “Good Spectators Code†in Appendix 6.
The Club requires parents to authorise the Club to act in loco parentis when the parents are not able to be present and the parents will sign any requisite consents and authorities authorising Club officers to act in such manner as they deem reasonably necessary for the health and safety of their children.
From a behavioural aspect, parents must not use extreme behaviour either on the side of the pitch or in the Clubhouse whilst young people are about. Such behaviour may cause distress to the young people and is harmful to the image of the Club.
Should a parent use such behaviour the Club will sanction the temporary or permanent removal of the parent from Club premises and, if applicable, terminate the parent’s membership of the Club without refund of the membership fee paid.
Supervision of Young People
No young player in the Under 6, Under 7 and Under 8 sections may be left unattended at the Club (if in the future C.DR.F.C. runs these age groups).
The parent or an alternative appointed adult should remain with the young person at the Club at all times. If a parent has to leave the Club for any reason during a training session or match, a suitable adult should be appointed to supervise the young person.
The situation should be reported to the manager of the young player’s team and the adult assuming responsibility for the child should be identified to the manager.
Medical Conditions
The Club needs to be aware of any ailments or injuries that a young person might suffer from as this may affect what activities they may undertake.
Parents must, therefore, complete the medical questions on the registration form and must, also, advise the young person’s team manager should the young person suffer from any illness or injury during the course of the season.
If you feel for any reason that your child is not fit to partake in training or play a game, you must not send them to the Club. If the young person does have a minor injury which is not sufficiently serious to prevent them from training or playing, the relevant injury must be properly and appropriately dressed and treated.
First Aid Cover and Medical Care
The Club will ensure that there are qualified First Aiders on hand to deal with minor injuries.
For serious injuries sustained by a young player whilst training / playing at Holly’s Corner, the Accident and Emergency unit of the Royal United Hospital, Combe Park, Bath, will be used wherever possible.
Where practicable, you will be asked to go with your child in the ambulance. However, if you are not available, the Club will assume that it may act in loco parentis and take whatever steps it considers reasonably necessary for the care and welfare of your child.
An acknowledgement to this effect will be signed by the parents when completing the young person’s registration form.
If a young person becomes unwell or is injured whilst under the supervision of the Club and it is the opinion of a First Aider and the young person’s team Manager that it would be to the young person’s detriment to remain on site, the following procedure will be adopted:
• The young person will be removed from activities that are likely to cause a
deterioration in the young persons health or physical condition and, if
deemed necessary (by the young persons parents in the first instance or a
proper officer of the Club if the parents are not immediately available),
taken to hospital accompanied by at least two officers of the Club.
• If applicable, the Club will contact the young persons parents and inform
them of the situation
• The incident will be recorded by the young persons team manager and / or
coach and/or the First Aider in the Club’s Accident Report Book and on
the Incident Record Form (Appendix 9).
• If the parents of the young person cannot be contacted, the Club will
ensure that an appropriate person remains with the young person at all times until a parent is able to take over supervision.
Concussion
This is a very serious condition and has quite specific symptoms. Any young person who suffers concussion will automatically be rested from training and matches for a minimum of three weeks. The young person will only be permitted to return to rugby after this time if they have a written certificate from their Doctor that it is safe for them so to do.
Returning players will not immediately take part, if applicable, in contact rugby. They will be “eased†back into the game whilst their team manager assesses their condition and ensures that it is safe for them to resume the game proper.
If your child suffers a head injury away from the Club, you must report this to your child’s team manager. If you do not inform the Club of such an injury, the Club will assume that it is safe for your child to train or play.
If a head injury is suffered whilst training or playing, such injury will, for the avoidance of doubt, be considered as possible concussion unless there is a compelling reason to conclude that the injury has not resulted in concussion.
A player sustaining such an injury will immediately be suspended from further training or play and will be released to his or her parent with a request that medical advice is immediately sought. This is irrespective of the wishes of the parent or manager of the child: the welfare of the child is paramount.
Children Taking Medication
Young people who take medication of any kind will be responsible for administering it themselves: under no circumstances will any manager, coach or other officer of the Club accept responsibility for securing or administering a young persons medication.
If medication is brought to the Club, it must be clearly labelled with the young persons name and must clearly identify the contents.
Notwithstanding the above, the Club will encourage managers, coaches and First Aiders to exercise a “common sense†approach to the administration and handling of medication on a case-by-case basis.
SECTION 9
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The Club will have close regard to its health and safety responsibilities and will carry out formal risk assessments at least once in each season to ensure the safe and competent coaching of rugby.
APPENDIX 1
POLICY ON BULLYING
C.D.R.F.C. Rugby Football Club (“the Clubâ€Â) takes seriously the problems caused by bullying and is committed to providing an environment in which bullying or any other form of harassment are not tolerated in any form.
The Club will ensure that all of its members (which includes its employees, coaches, players, officials, volunteer helpers and parents) subscribe to, and agree to be bound by, the Club’s policy on bullying and will ensure that its members acknowledge that they have a duty to ensure that the policy is observed by others.
It is appreciated that “bullying†is not always easy to define and may not necessarily consist of an isolated incident of an adult abusing a young person.
Bullying usually takes place over a period of time and the bully may be an adult as well as a young person.
Three main types of bullying exist:-
1.Physical (Examples include):
• Hitting
• Kicking
• Unwanted physical contact
• Theft
• Any other form of violence
2. Verbal (Examples include):
• Racist or homophobic remarks
• Name-calling
• Sarcasm
• Spreading rumours
• Tormenting
• Ridiculing
• Taunting
• Abusive or offensive comments of a sexual nature
3.Emotional (Examples include):
• Threats
• Persistent negative feedback
Bullying behaviour will also include:
• Deliberate hostility and aggression towards the victim and
• A victim who is physically or emotionally weaker than the bully and
• An outcome which is always painful and distressing for the victim
Examples of bullying include but are not limited to:
• A parent who pushes their child too hard
• A coach who adopts a “win at all costs†philosophy
• A player who intimidates others
• An official who is over-officious
It is the duty of each member of the Club to report any incident or suspicion of bullying to the C.W.O. and to complete the Incident Report Form (Appendix 9)or such other Form as shall be required. Upon receipt of such report, the C.W.O. will:
• Take and treat each such report seriously and
• Investigate the incident and
• Talk, separately and in confidence, to the victim and the bully and
• Take whatever further action is considered to be necessary and
• Provide support for the victim
• Liaise with the Chairman of the Club and the Chairman of the Section (Youth or Mini) to which the victim and the bully belong
If the victim and the bully are both young persons and the C.W.O. considers that the incident so warrants it, the C.W.O. may deal the matter in one or more of the following ways namely:
• By ensuring that the bully apologise to the victim
• Informing the parents of the bully
•Insisting upon the return of any items “borrowed†or stolen
• By dealing with the matter in any other appropriate manner and proportionately to the seriousness of the incident
If either the victim or the bully is an adult (although the incident is not considered by the C.W.O. to constitute “Poor Practice†or “Abuse†for which separate procedures are prescribed) or if both the victim and bully are young persons and the incident is considered by the C.W.O. to be serious the C.W.O. must refer the matter, as soon as is reasonably practicable, to a disciplinary panel which will convene within five working days to consider the matter.
The Disciplinary panel should be made up of three Club members with regard to the following criteria:
• No person who has been involved in bringing the case to the disciplinary
hearing should sit on the panel
• The Executive Committee of the Club must be represented
The Disciplinary Panel will consider the matter having regard to any representations that it may seek from any relevant parties.
The parent of any young person involved will be informed of the progress and outcome and invited to make representations to the Disciplinary Panel.
Sanctions that may be imposed by the Disciplinary Panel include but are not limited to the following:
• Permanent or temporary exclusion from the Club or pitchside
• Conditions imposed upon attendance (e.g. must be accompanied by
parent)
• Person may only coach whilst supervised
In conclusion, it is accepted that rugby union is a physical game and one during which emotions can “run high†both in training and in match situations. As a result there will inevitably be isolated incidents caused by a lack or breakdown of discipline.
It is, however, possible, by using common sense, to distinguish such incidents from pre-meditated or orchestrated incidents of bullying. It is the latter incidents that have to be eradicated from all aspects of the game if we are to continue to attract young people to the game and to ensure that they are allowed to develop to the best of their ability within it.
APPENDIX 2
EQUITY POLICY STATEMENT
The Club is committed to ensuring that equity is incorporated across all aspects of its development. In so doing, it acknowledges and adopts the following Sports England definition of “Sports Equity:â€Â
Sports equity is about fairness in sport, equality of access, recognising inequalities and taking steps to address them. It is about changing the culture and structure of sport to ensure it becomes equally accessible to everyone in society.
The Club respects the rights, dignity and worth of every person and will treat everyone equally within the context of their sport, regardless of age, ability, gender, race, ethnicity, religious belief, sexuality or social/economic status.
The Club is committed to everyone having the right to enjoy their sport in an environment free from threat of intimidation, harassment and abuse. All Club members have a responsibility to oppose discriminatory behaviour and promote equality of opportunity.
The Club will deal with any incidence of discriminatory behaviour seriously according to Club disciplinary procedures.
APPENDIX 3
CODE OF CONDUCT, ETHICS AND PRACTICE FOR COACHES OF YOUNG PERSONS
1. Introduction
All adults who work with young people are in a position of trust that has been invested in them by the parents, the sport and the young person. This relationship can be described as one in which the adult is in a position of power and influence by virtue of their role. Coaches, as well as others, must recognise that this relationship is reliant upon mutual trust and respect and is governed by certain “boundaries†which must not be crossed.
The following Code has been drafted, insofar as possible, to define those boundaries.
The Code informs coaches of their responsibilities and the minimum standard of behaviour that is expected of them in order to comply with the requirements of the Clubs Child Welfare Policy and to ensure that best practice is adopted in their dealings with young persons.
Each coach will be called upon to warrant that they have read, understood and will abide by the terms of the Code and the Clubs Child Welfare Policy.
This Code will be reviewed before the commencement of each season or at any other time that is deemed necessary. Amendments to the Code will be published and coaches will be made aware of them.
Advice and guidance on the Code may be obtained from the C.W.O. or other appropriate officer. Coaches are encouraged to discuss the provisions of the Code and to put forward suggestions as to how the Code may be modified or adapted in order to improve the standard of care provided by the Club.
It is understood that any breaches of this Code may lead to a disciplinary or other enquiry at Club, regional or higher level.
The Code as follows is not to be considered as definitive and is not intended to be a substitute for common sense which should be exercised at all times.
2.Code
Coaches of young people should:
• Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person with whom
they work and treat them equally within the context of the game of rugby
union.
• Remember that young people play for fun and enjoyment and that winning
is only a part of this. Most learning is achieved through the use of
techniques that combine fun and enjoyment.
• Appreciate the needs of the young people before the needs of the sport.
• Place the physical and emotional well-being of all young people above all
other considerations, including the development of performance.
• Recognise the relationship that a rugby coach develops with the players
with whom they work must be based on mutual trust and respect.
• Clarify with the young players (and their parents) what is expected of
them both on and off the rugby field and also what they are entitled to
expect of the coach.
• Make all young players feel valued whatever their ability: recognise and
praise good play by all players.
• Coach only to the limitations of their knowledge and qualifications.
• Understand that most learning is achieved through doing.
• Encourage young players to accept responsibility for their own behaviour
and performance.
• Never ignore poor practice, behaviour or bad coaching technique in others.
Refer the matter to the C.W.O. or other proper officer of the Club.
• Coach to the rules laid down in the Rugby Continuum and keep
themselves updated on changes to the Continuum and the I.R.B. Laws of
the Game.
• Ensure that they are conversant with current coaching practice by ensuring
that they hold a current R.F.U. Coaching Award. The Club requires that all
coaches attain the Level 1 Certificate before or as soon as reasonably
practicable after they have commenced coaching.
• Motivate young people through positive verbal feedback in a constructive
and encouraging manner to all players during coaching sessions and
matches.
• Provide rugby experiences that are matched by the young player’s ages
and abilities as well as their physical and behavioural development.
• Treat games against other clubs as lessons and opportunities to learn and
not as “tests.â€Â
• Avoid the overplaying of players (particularly talented players) by using a
squad system. All players need and deserve an equal opportunity to play.
• Be a positive role model and consistently display the highest standards of
personal behaviour and appearance.
• Find out the facts relating to child development and the physical,
intellectual and emotional capabilities of the age group with which you
work.
• Start and finish coaching sessions on time.
• Plan coaching sessions and the season.
• Not drink alcohol before or during coaching sessions
• Not smoke during coaching sessions.
• Never use inappropriate language or allow young players to use
inappropriate language unchallenged.
• Keep winning and losing in perspective: encourage young players to
behave with dignity in all circumstances.
• Educate their players to treat their opponents with dignity and respect and
to avoid behaviour that may be construed as unsporting such as the over-
celebration of a try or victory.
• Respect all referees and the decisions that they make, even if they appear
to make a mistake, and ensure that their young players recognise that they
must do the same.
• Reinforce to the parents of their players that they must comply with the
provisions of the “Good Parents Code†(Appendix 5) and “Good
Spectators Code†(Appendix 6.)
• Always promote the positive aspects of the sport e.g. fair play. Violations
of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of
the Game or relevant regulations or the use of prohibited techniques or
substances must never be coached nor condoned.
• Work in partnership with others within the game (officials, doctors,
physiotherapists, sports scientists) to ensure the well being, safety and
enjoyment of all young players.
• Develop an awareness of nutrition as part of an overall education in
lifestyle management.
• Ensure that the activities which they coach, direct or advocate are
appropriate to the age, maturity and ability of the players.
• Ensure that their knowledge and coaching strategies are up to date and in line with R.F.U. philosophy. This is especially so with regard to the coaching of contact skills which must be coached in accordance with the Rugby Continuum and with regard to the physical development of the young players.
• Ensure all young players are coached in a safe environment with First Aid readily to hand.
• Ensure the safety of the young players that you are coaching by making sure that they use safety equipment and facilities that are appropriate to the age and abilities of the young players. Appropriate clothing for the conditions must be worn and the playing / training area must be safe and free from hazardous material. To fail to do this could constitute “neglect.â€Â
• Ensure that a register is kept of all players attending each training session or match and that the register specifically records the number of games played by each player.
• Ensure good supervision of young players both on and, where appropriate, off the field.
• Be aware of, and abide by, the policies and procedures outlined in the “Policy and Procedures for the Welfare of Young People in Rugby Union.â€Â
• Be aware of, and abide by, the R.F.U. recommended procedures for taking young people on residential tours at home and abroad.
• Ensure that, where mixed sex teams compete away from home, they are accompanied by at least one male and one female adult.
• Never allow themselves to be placed in a position where they may be open to allegations of “Abuse†e.g. never share a room or changing room or spend time with a young person away from others. Avoid taking young people alone on car journeys, however short and other situations where you and a young person are completely unobserved. If such situations are unavoidable, they should only take place with the full knowledge and consent of an officer of the Club and / or the parent of the young person.
• Report to the C.W.O. and / or other officer of the Club as soon as is reasonably practicable any incident whereby the coach accidentally hurts a player, or causes distress in any manner, or the young person appears to respond in a sexual manner to the coaches actions or misunderstands or misinterprets something that the coach has done. Such report must be supported by a written report of the incident as soon as possible. The parent or guardian of any young person involved must be informed of the occurrence and the manner in which it will be investigated and dealt with.
• Ensure that no young person takes part each season in more than the
maximum number of permitted games as provided for in the Continuum.
• Never ridicule, belittle or overtly criticise young players or use language
or actions which may cause players to lose self-esteem and confidence or
which will undermine the young player. To do so may be construed as
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