Grimsby RUFC

Grimsby RUFC is determined to ensure that rugby union is a sport which is safe, acceptable and gives confidence to those involved to raise concerns and issues about anything they view as unacceptable.

What prevents whistle blowing?

• Getting it wrong.
• Thinking you have misunderstood.
• Worried about repercussions.
• Not being believed.
• Worried about starting a chain of events.
• Loyal to others.
• Believing it doesn't matter or nobody will get harmed.
• Believing it not to be their responsibility.

Why whistle blow?

• Everybody has a responsibility to raise concerns about what they believe to be unacceptable.
• The welfare of children and young people is paramount.
• Young people have a right to expect that you will do something about your concerns.
• The most vulnerable young players are easily targeted.
• Young players need somebody to ensure they are safe.
• Swift action prevents further harm.
• It can protect others from harm.
• It can prevent you from being implicated yourself or facing a charge for failing to report misconduct.

What should you do?

• Do not deal with any allegation or suspicion yourself.
• if an emergency contact the relevant emergency service.
• You should inform your Club Safeguarding Officer (Kim MacDermid 01472 822008).
• If you are not able to contact the above call the RFU safeguarding team (0208 831 7479)
• What you should not do:
Inform the person you have a concern about.
• Inform other club officials.
• Start your own investigation.
• Delay reporting your concern.

What happens next?

• What you report will be treated in confidence.
• During the investigation your identity will be kept as confidential as possible but sometimes someone in authority such as the police or social services may need to know.
• Where possible the GRUFC will keep those who report concerns informed about progress and any conclusion.
• No action will be taken if a concern proves to be unfounded but was raised in good faith.
• GRUFC will consider disciplinary action against anyone who victimises a whistleblower.
• GRUFC may consider disciplinary action against a malicious allegation.

If you are concerned about the above and feel unable, for any reason to report a concern within GRUFC or the RFU, remember that all people who report a concern "in good faith' to an external statutory agency will be supported by GRUFC. It is always better to act in response to a concern about a child's welfare than to fail to take responsibility. In these circumstances please contact the local police (0845 6060222), Children's Social Services (01472 325555) or the NSPCC Helpline (0808 800 5000)