Child Protection - Child Protection 1
RUGBY LEAGUE
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
AND IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES
CONTENTS
Introduction 1
1 Policy Statement 2
2 Recruitment, employment and deployment of staff and volunteers 43 Promoting good practice with young people 7
4 Recognition of poor practice, abuse and bullying 9
5 Club Child Protection Officer13
6 Responding to disclosure, suspicions and allegations14
Appendix A - Essential contacts22
Appendix B - The Protection of Children Act 1999 23
Appendix C - Child Protection Regulation 24
Appendix D - Rugby League Code of Ethics & Conduct26
Appendix E - Dealing with disclosure application forms 32
Appendix F - Photographs/images and online usage 34
Appendix G - Photographic/filming equipment at events35
Appendix H - Transport 36
Appendix I - Travel checklists37
Appendix J – References41
PLEASE NOTE;
The templates referenced in this text are available in pdf format on the RFL website, www.rfl.uk.com within the ‘In League Together’ Child Protection section (signposted on the home page). They can also be found in ‘hard copy’ versions of the Policy and Procedures, along with additional pdf formats having been made available on the ‘Rugby League ; From Cubs to Lions’ DVD in the document folders.
INTRODUCTION
Sport can and does have a very powerful and positive influence on people - especially young people. Not only can it provide opportunities for enjoyment and achievement; it can also develop valuable qualities such as self-esteem, leadership and teamwork. These positive effects can only take place if sport is in the right hands - in the hands of those who place the welfare of all young people first and adopt practices that support, protect and empower them.
The reality is that abuse does take place in sport and in some cases coaches and other trusted adults in sport have been convicted. Every adult has a legal and moral responsibility to protect young people in sport from abuse.
Rugby League is committed to working in partnership with all agencies to ensure that information and training opportunities are available to ensure best practice when working with young people. Adopting best practice will help to safeguard these participants from potential abuse as well as protecting coaches and other adults in positions of responsibility from potential false allegations of abuse. The Rugby League Child Protection Policy and
Implementation Procedures will allow young people to excel in a safe environment and transmit a reassuring signal to parents that will positively impact on recruitment.
This document is binding for the game as a whole and provides guidelines to everyone in Rugby League, whether working in a professional or voluntary capacity.
It is recognised that child abuse is a very emotive and difficult subject; however everyone in Rugby League has a duty of care towards young and vulnerable performers and can help to protect them from abuse.
Rugby League’s approach to child protection is based on the principles recognised within UK and International legislation and Government guidance. The following has been taken into consideration:
•The Children Act 1989
•The Protection of Children Act 1999
•Working Together to Safeguard Children and Young People 1999
•The Human Rights Act 1998
Acknowledgement
This document draws heavily on the work of sports coach UK and where this document reproduces that work it is reproduced by kind permission of sports coach UK. All rights reserved. Sports coach UK subscription and membership services provide a range of benefits to coaches including insurance and information services. For further details, please ring 0113 274 4802 or visit http://www.sportscoachuk.org.
Rugby League would also like to thank the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit and Sport England for their support and guidance. Special thanks also to the Amateur Swimming
Association (ASA), The Football Association and the Joint Angling Governing Bodies whose work in this field has been a valuable source of information and inspiration.
We would also like to thank Mike Hartill and Phil Prescott of Edge Hill College of Higher Education for their evaluation of the Rugby League Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures Pilot Study which has assisted tremendously in shaping the project.
BARLA should also be credited as the major driving force behind the compilation of this document. Thanks also go to Malcolm Fairhurst, the Chair of the Child Protection Disciplinary Committee, and his team for their invaluable contribution.
1 POLICY STATEMENT
1.1Responsibilities
All Rugby League agencies will:
•accept the moral and legal responsibility to implement procedures to provide a duty of care for young people, safeguard their well-being and protect them from abuse;
•respect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of young people;
•recruit, train and supervise its employees and volunteers so as to adopt best practice
to safeguard and protect young people from abuse, and themselves against false allegations;
•require staff and volunteers to adopt and abide by the Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures which incorporate the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct;
•respond to any allegations appropriately.
1.2Principles
The guidance given in the procedures is based on the following principles:
•this policy recognises and builds on the legal and statutory definitions of a child;
•the distinction between ages of consent, civil and criminal liability are recognised but in the pursuit of good practice in the delivery and management of Rugby League, a young person is recognised as being under the age of 18 years (Children’s Act 1989 definition);
•an adult has a moral and statutory duty for the care, custody and control of any child under the age of 18 under their supervision;
•the child’s welfare is paramount;
•all young people, whatever their age, culture, any disability they may have, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief and sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse;
•all incidents of poor practice or suspicions of poor practice and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately;
•all young people have a right to play the game of Rugby League in an enjoyable and safe climate;
•young players have a right to expect appropriate management, support, personal and social development with regard to their involvement in the game of Rugby League, whether they are playing in the amateur or professional game;
•it is the responsibility of the child protection experts and agencies to determine whether or not abuse has taken place but it is everyone’s responsibility to report any concerns;
•confidentiality should be upheld in line with the Data Protection Act 1984 and the Human Rights Act 2000.
Working in partnership with young people, their parents and other agencies is essential for the protection of young people. Although Rugby League agencies recognise the statutory responsibility of the Social Services department to ensure the welfare of young people and work with the local Area Child Protection Committee (ACPC) to comply with its procedures, child protection has a broader remit within the game of Rugby League. All those involved in the management of young players in Rugby League have a duty to ensure that young players are:
•allowed access to the game in a way that is appropriate for their age and ability;
•coached and trained by appropriately qualified staff;
•not required to play in so many games, or to attend training sessions, as to become a threat to their well being;
•not subjected to verbal or racial abuse from any source, especially from the touch lines, including references to height, weight etc.;
•not subjected to bullying or undue pressure from any source;
•encouraged to achieve their full potential at all levels;
•instructed on how to behave, both on and off the pitch;
•afforded respect, confidentiality and privacy in a playing and training situation and any other Rugby League environment.
1.3Incorporation
The Rugby League Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures shall be adopted in accordance with Appendix C by the following;
•The Rugby Football League and its Members.
•All other bodies involved in the sport of Rugby League in the United Kingdom which provide the opportunity to work with children and young people up to the age of eighteen.
1.4Assent
All individuals involved in Rugby League in the United Kingdom at every level, including players, match officials, coaches, administrators, club officials, spectators, and scouts agree to abide by the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct (â€ÂCodeâ€Â) (Appendix D) and all such individuals by participating or being involved in Rugby League are deemed to have assented to and as such recognise and adhere to the principles and responsibilities embodied in the Code.
1.5Child Protection Regulation
The Child Protection Regulation (Appendix C) shall become a new bye law and/or become
incorporated in the constitution of each of The Rugby Football League, its Members and all
other bodies in the United Kingdom referred to in paragraph 1.3 above and shall provide a
new disciplinary process under each bodies’ respective Disciplinary Rules.
Important
Please note that the term “parents†is used throughout this document as a generic term to
represent parents, carers and guardians.
Please note that the term “young person†also refers to players with disabilities and vulnerable adults.
The term “club†is used throughout this document as a generic term to represent any Rugby League agency in charge of players under the age of 18 years.
“Members†shall mean each of those clubs who are member clubs of the Rugby Football League as listed (and amended from time to time) in Part II of the Schedule to the Rugby Football League Constitution, BARLA, the English Schools Rugby League, the Combined Services Rugby League and the Student Rugby League.
2 RECRUITMENT, EMPLOYMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
Introduction
Anyone may have the potential to abuse young people, therefore all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with them. It is essential that the same procedures are used consistently for all posts whether staff are paid or voluntary, full-time or part-time. Under the Protection of Children Act 1999, all individuals working on behalf of, or otherwise representing, an organisation are treated as employees whether working in a paid or voluntary capacity.
2.1 Pre-Recruitment checks
The following pre-recruitment checks should always be carried out:
2.2 Advertising
If any form of advertising is used to recruit staff, whether paid or voluntary, it should reflect the:
•aims of the club and where appropriate, the particular programme involved;
•key responsibilities of the role;
•level of experience or qualifications required (e.g. experience of working with young people is an advantage);
•the club’s open and positive stance on child protection and equal opportunities.
2.2.2 Pre-Application Information
Pre-application information sent to interested or potential applicants should contain:
•a job description, including roles and responsibilities;
•a person specification (e.g. stating qualifications or experience required);
•an application form (Template Two).
2.2.3 Applications for all posts
All applicants, whether for paid or voluntary, full-time or part-time positions, should complete an application form. An application form which has been designed to elicit the necessary information is on Template One.
If an applicant has no experience of working with young people, training is strongly recommended.
A minimum of two written references should be taken up and at least one should be associated with former work with young people only when the position has been offered to an applicant (Template Three).
2.2.4 Short listing
Independent short listing by the designated committee will be made for each post in accordance with the application form and the relevant person specification.
2.3 Interview, disclosure and induction
A formal interview is always required for positions involving working with young people. The interview should be carried out according to acceptable protocol and recommendations1.
1 Good advice on general recruitment, interview techniques and good practice is contained in the Running Sport publication Employment Matters and the sports coach UK publication Investing in Coaches - A Guide to Local Coaching Development (both available from Coachwise Ltd. on 0113 231 1310).
All those with significant access to young people will be required to complete a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosure (Appendix E). All those with occasional access to young people, i.e. all club volunteers and employees who have not been required to complete a CRB Disclosure will be required to complete a self disclosure form (Template One). The CRB Disclosure and the self-disclosure form must be completed once every three years.
The successful applicant will only be allowed to take up his/her duties once their CRB check has been cleared by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer and the appointing Rugby League Agency has received two (2) satisfactory references.
All staff, paid or voluntary, will undergo a formal induction in which:
•their qualifications as a coach/official are substantiated;
•they complete a profile to identify training needs/aspirations;
•they are reminded that they have agreed to abide by the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct (Appendix D), and they may face disciplinary action if there is an allegation that the Code has been broken;
•the expectations, roles and responsibilities of the job are clarified (e.g. through a formal or informal work programme or goal-setting exercise);
•child protection policy and implementation procedures are explained and training needs established;
•if practicable, the new recruit should be mentored by an experienced person.
2.4 Training
Checks are only part of the process to protect young people from possible abuse. Appropriate training will enable individuals to recognise their responsibilities with regard to their own good practice and the reporting of suspected poor practice/concerns of possible abuse.
There will be a full range of Child Protection training opportunities within Rugby League, details of which will be communicated throughout the game and updated periodically.
2.5 Monitoring and appraisal
At regular intervals (or following a particular programme), all employees or volunteers should be given the opportunity to receive formal (e.g. through an appraisal) or informal feedback, to identify training needs and set new goals. Club Management should be sensitive to any concerns about poor practice or abuse and act on them at an early stage following the guidelines in this document. The club management should also offer appropriate support, through liaison with the Rugby League Child Protection Officer, to those who report concerns/complaints.
2.6 Complaints and disciplinary procedures
Clubs should ensure that parents and young people are aware of the complaints and disciplinary procedures detailed in this document.
2.7 Applications from within the club
If an individual within the club wishes to move to a post with substantial access to young people, that individual must go through the application process described in 2.2.3.
A. Recruitment and Selection of Staff and Volunteers
2PROMOTING GOOD PRACTICE WITH YOUNG PEOPLE
Introduction
Child abuse, particularly sexual abuse, can generate strong emotions in those facing such a situation. It is important to understand these feelings and not allow them to interfere with your judgement about any action to take. Abuse can occur within many situations including the home, school and the sporting environment. Some individuals will actively seek employment or voluntary work with young people in order to harm them.
A coach, teacher, official or volunteer may have regular contact with young people and be an important link in identifying cases where a young person needs protection. All suspicious cases of poor practice should be reported following the guidelines in this document. When a young person enters the club having been subjected to child abuse outside the sporting environment, sport can play a crucial role in improving the young person’s self esteem. In such instances the club must work with the appropriate agencies to ensure the young person receives the required support.
3.1 Good practice guidelines
All personnel should be encouraged to demonstrate exemplary behaviour in order to protect themselves from false allegations. The following are common sense examples of how to create a positive culture and climate within Rugby League:
3.1.1 Good practice means:
•always working in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging an open environment (e.g. no secrets);
•treating all young people equally, and with respect and dignity;
•always putting the welfare of each young person first, before winning or achieving goals;
•maintaining a safe and appropriate distance with players (e.g. it is not appropriate to have an intimate relationship with a young person or to share a room with them);
•building balanced relationships based on mutual trust which empowers young people to share in the decision-making process;
•making sport fun, enjoyable and promoting fair play;
•ensuring that if any form of manual/physical support is required, it should be provided openly and according to guidelines provided by the Rugby League Coach Education Programme. Care is needed, as it is difficult to maintain hand contact positions when the young person is constantly moving. Young people should always be consulted and their agreement gained. Some parents are becoming increasingly sensitive about manual support and their views should always be carefully considered;
•keeping up to date with the technical skills, qualifications and insurance in sport;
•if groups have to be supervised in the changing rooms, always ensure parents/teachers coaches/officials work in pairs;
•ensuring that if mixed teams are taken away, they should always be accompanied by a male and female member of staff. (N.B. However, same gender abuse can also occur);
•ensuring that at tournaments or residential events, adults should not enter children’s rooms or invite children into their rooms. If an adult is working in a supervisory capacity, they should only enter childrens rooms when accompanied by another adult;
•being an excellent role model - this includes not smoking or drinking alcohol in the company of young people and promoting a healthy diet;
•giving enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism;
•recognising the developmental needs and capacity of young people - avoiding excessive training or competition and not pushing them against their will;
•securing parental consent in writing to act in loco parentis (Template Five), if the need arises to give permission for the administration of emergency first aid and/or other medical treatment;
•keeping a written record of any injury that occurs, along with the details of any treatment given (Template Six). Where staff witness an injury this must be reported to the parents at the first opportunity;
•requesting written parental consent if club officials are required to transport young people in their cars (Appendix H).
Coaching Ratios
In accordance with the Rugby League Coach Education Programme’s current guidelines, the suggested coaching ratios are as follows:
‘When working with groups of children the ideal coaching ratio is one coach for every 8-12 players. One coach to 16 players is acceptable, but larger ratios mean you are in danger of losing control.’ Equally, if there is an accident or an incident to a young person or member of staff, you should ensure that there are enough members of staff remaining to supervise the group.
Changing rooms
Players should be supervised at all times in the changing rooms by two (2) members of staff. Adult staff should not change or shower at the same time using the same facility as players. If you are involved in a mixed gender team, separate facilities should be made available. If a young person is uncomfortable changing or showering in public no pressure should be placed on them to do so. Encourage them to do this at home. If your club has players with disabilities involve them and their carers in deciding how they should be assisted and ensure they are able to consent to the assistance that is offered.
Any staff, medical or otherwise, for example, a female physio working with a male team, must not be present in the changing rooms whilst players are getting showered or changed.
No photographic equipment should be allowed in the changing room environment. This includes cameras, video cameras, mobile phones with photographic capabilities etc.
Treatment of young people
•It is recommended that no young person should be treated in any way in a situation where the young person is on his/her own in a treatment room with the door closed;
•It is strongly recommended that all treatment procedures should be ‘open’ i.e. the door remains open, parents are invited to observe treatment procedures. Where strict medical confidentiality is to be observed then the parents of the young person should be invited to attend;
•It is recommended that if treating an area of the body which is potentially embarrassing to a young person (i.e. the groin) a suitable consenting adult acting as a chaperone should be present;
•It is important to maintain medical confidentiality and patient dignity at all times;
•Prior to medical treatment being carried out on a young person, parental consent in the written form must be sought where appropriate (Appendix H);
•It is recommended that all treatment procedures are explained fully to the young person and verbal consent is given before they are carried out.
3.1.2 Practice to be avoided
The following should be avoided except in emergencies. If cases arise where these situations are unavoidable they should only occur with the full knowledge and consent of someone in charge at the club or the young person’s parents. For example, a young person sustains an injury and needs to go to hospital, or a parent fails to arrive to pick a young person up at the end of a session (Appendix H):
•avoid spending excessive amounts of time alone with young people away from others;
•never take young people to your home where they will be alone with you.
3.1.3 Practice never to be sanctioned
The following should never be sanctioned. You should never:
•engage in rough, physical or sexually provocative games, including horseplay;
•share a room with a young person;
•allow or engage in any form of inappropriate touching;
•allow young people to use inappropriate language unchallenged;
•make sexually suggestive comments to a young person, even in fun;
•reduce a young person to tears as a form of control;
•allow allegations made by a young person to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon;
•do things of a personal nature for young people or disabled adults, that they can do
for themselves;
•invite or allow young people to stay with you at your home unsupervised.
N.B. It may sometimes be necessary for staff or volunteers to do things of a personal nature for young people, particularly if they are young or are disabled. These tasks should only be carried out with the full understanding and consent of parents and the players involved. There is a need to be responsive to a person’s reactions. If a person is fully dependent on you, talk with him/her about what you are doing and give choices where possible. This is particularly so if you are involved in any dressing or undressing of outer clothing, or where there is physical contact, lifting or assisting a young person to carry out particular activities. Avoid taking on the responsibility for tasks for which you are not appropriately trained.
If any of the following incidents should occur, you should report them immediately to another colleague and make a written note of the event. Parents should also be informed of the incident:
•if you accidentally hurt a player;
•if he/she seems distressed in any manner;
•if a player appears to be sexually aroused by your actions;
•if a player misunderstands or misinterprets something you have done.
3.3 Relationships of trust
“The inequality at the heart of a relationship of trust should be ended before any sexual relationship begins.†Caring for Young People and the Vulnerable? Guidance for preventing abuse of trust (Home Office 1999)
This statement recognises that genuine relationships do occur between the different levels of volunteers and participants in a group but that no intimate relationship should begin whilst the member of staff or volunteer is in a ‘position of trust’ over them. The power and influence that an older member of staff has over someone attending a group or activity cannot be under-estimated. If there is an additional competitive aspect to the activity and the older person is responsible for the young person’s success or failure to some extent, then the dependency of the younger member upon the older will be increased. It is therefore vital for volunteers to recognise the responsibility they must exercise in ensuring that they do not abuse their positions of trust. Young people aged 16-18 can legally consent to some types of sexual activity; however, in some provisions of legislation they are classified as children.
If you engage in an intimate or inappropriate relationship with a young person it is a breach of the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct and as such will result in disciplinary action.
In certain circumstances the ‘abuse of trust’ is a criminal offence (Sexual Offences Amendment Act 2000 - UK wide).
3.4 Guidelines for use of photographic filming equipment at sporting events
There is evidence that some people have used sporting events as an opportunity to take inappropriate photographs or film footage of young and disabled sports people in vulnerable positions.
It is advisable that all clubs adhere to the appropriate guidelines detailed in Appendix F.
4 RECOGNITION OF POOR PRACTICE, ABUSE AND BULLYING
Introduction
Child abuse can and does occur outside the family setting. Even for those experienced in working with child abuse, it is not always easy to recognise a situation where abuse may occur or has already taken place. The staff and volunteers in Rugby League, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity, are not experts at such recognition. However, they do have a responsibility to act if they have any concerns about the behaviour of someone (an adult or another young person) towards a young person and to follow the procedures in this document.
4.1 Poor practice
Allegations may relate to poor practice where an adult’s or another young person’s behaviour is inappropriate and may be causing concern to a young person. In the application of this Policy, poor practice includes any behaviour of a child protection nature which contravenes the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct (Appendix D), infringes
an individuals’ rights and/or is a failure to fulfil the highest standards of care. Poor practice is unacceptable in Rugby League and will be treated seriously and appropriate actions taken.
4.2 Abuse
Abuse can happen wherever there are young people of any age. The effects of abuse can be so damaging and if untreated, they may follow a person into adulthood. For example, a person who has been abused as a young person may find it difficult or impossible to maintain stable, trusting relationships, become involved with drugs or prostitution, attempt suicide or even abuse a young person in the future.
4.2.1 Disabled People
There have been a number of studies, which suggest young people (or adults) with disabilities, are at increased risk of abuse. Various factors contribute to this, such as stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, isolation and a powerlessness to protect themselves, or adequately communicate that abuse has occurred1.
1 Kerr, A (1999) Protecting Disabled Children and Adults in Sport and Recreation. Contact Disability Sport England (Tel: 020 7490 4919).
4.2.2 Race and Racism
Young people from ethnic minority groups (and their parents) are likely to have experienced harassment, racial discrimination and institutional racism. Although racism causes significant harm it is not, in itself, a category of abuse. All organisations working with young people, including those operating where ethnic minority communities are numerically small, should address institutional racism, defined in the Macpherson Inquiry Report on the death of Stephen Lawrence as ‘the collective failure by an organisation to provide appropriate and professional service to people on account of their race, culture and/or religion’. Details of the ‘Tackle Racism in Rugby League’ campaign are available from BARLA and the RFL.
4.2.3 Abuse and Neglect
Somebody may abuse or neglect a young person by inflicting harm, or by failing to act to prevent harm. Young people may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by a stranger.
Neglect - where adults fail to meet a young person’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the young person’s health or development (e.g. failure to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, failing to protect a young person from physical harm or danger, or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.) It may also include refusal to give young people love, affection and attention. Neglect in sport could include a teacher or coach not ensuring young people were safe, exposing them to undue cold, heat or to unnecessary risk of injury.
Physical abuse - where adults physically hurt or injure young people by hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, biting, or scalding, suffocating, drowning or otherwise causing physical harm to a young person. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent feigns the symptoms of, or deliberately causes ill health to a young person whom they are looking after e.g. factitious illness by proxy or Munchausen’s syndrome by proxy. Examples of physical abuse in Rugby League may be when the nature and intensity of training and competition exceeds the capacity of the young person’s immature and growing body; where drugs are used to enhance performance or delay puberty.
Sexual abuse - where girls and boys are abused by adults (both male and female) who use young people to meet their own sexual needs. This could include full sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, anal intercourse and fondling. Showing young people pornographic material (books, videos, pictures) or talking to young people in a sexually explicit manner is also a form of sexual abuse. In sport, coaching techniques, which involve physical contact with young people, could potentially create situations where sexual abuse may go unnoticed. The power of the coach over young performers, if misused, may also lead to abusive situations developing.
Emotional abuse - is the persistent emotional ill treatment of a young person such
as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the young person’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to young people that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on young people. It may involve causing young people to feel frightened or in danger by being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted which may make the young person very nervous and withdrawn. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill treatment of a young person. Emotional abuse in Rugby League may occur if young people are subjected to constant criticism, name-calling, and sarcasm, bullying or unrealistic pressure to perform to high expectations consistently.
The above definitions are adapted from Department of Health (1999) Working Together to Safeguard Children - A guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
4.2.4 Indicators of Abuse
Indications that a young person may be being abused include the following:
•unexplained or suspicious injuries such as bruising, cuts or burns, particularly if situated on a part of the body not normally prone to such injuries;
•an injury for which the explanation seems inconsistent;
•the young person describes what appears to be an abusive act involving him/her;
•someone else (a young person or adult) expresses concern about the welfare of another young person;
•unexplained changes in behaviour (e.g. becoming very quiet, withdrawn or displaying sudden outbursts of temper);
•inappropriate sexual awareness;
•engaging in sexually explicit behaviour;
•distrust of adults, particularly those with whom a close relationship would normally be expected;
•has difficulty in making friends;
•is prevented from socialising with other young people;
•displays variations in eating patterns including overeating or loss of appetite;
•loses weight for no apparent reason;
•becomes increasingly dirty or unkempt.
It should be recognised that this list is not exhaustive and the presence of one or more of the indicators is not proof that abuse is actually taking place. A good working relationship with parents will help to identify any concerns that a young person may be experiencing, e.g. family bereavement.
It is not the responsibility of those working in Rugby League to decide that child abuse is occurring but it is their responsibility to act on any concerns. (See Section 6)
4.3 Bullying
It is important to recognise that in some cases of abuse, it may not always be an adult abusing a young person. It can occur that the abuser may be a young person, for example in the case of bullying. Bullying may be seen as deliberately hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those bullied to defend themselves.
Nancy Duin defined bullying as ‘repeated (systematic) aggressive verbal, psychological or physical conduct by an individual or group against another person or persons’ (Bullying, a Survival Guide, produced by BBC Education).
4.3.1
Although anyone can be the target of bullying, victims are typically shy, sensitive and perhaps anxious or insecure. Sometimes they are singled out for physical reasons - being overweight, physically small, having a disability or belonging to a different race, faith or culture.
4.3.2
Girls and boys can be bullies although it seems to be more conspicuous in boys. Although bullying often takes place in schools1 research shows it can and does occur anywhere where there is inadequate supervision - on the way to and from school, at a sporting event, in the playground and changing rooms.
4.3.3
Bullies come from all walks of life; they bully for a variety of different reasons and may even have been abused. Typically, bullies can have low self-esteem, be excitable, aggressive and jealous. Crucially, they have learned how to gain power over others and there is increasing evidence to suggest that this abuse of power can lead to crime2.
1 Research by the University of Sheffield, reported in the BBC Education publication (1994) by Goldsmiths College, London, showed that 10% of primary school children and 4% of secondary school children are bullied once a week.
2 The BBC Education publication (1994) also indicates that bullies are four times more likely to become criminals.
4.3.4
The competitive nature of sport makes it an ideal environment for the bully. The bully in Rugby League can be:
•a parent who pushes too hard;
•a coach who adopts a ‘win-at-all costs’ philosophy;
•a player who intimidates inappropriately;
•a club official who places unfair pressure on a person
•a spectator who shouts abuse.
4.3.5
Bullying can include:
•Physical: e.g. hitting, kicking and theft;
•Verbal: e.g. name-calling, constant teasing, and sarcasm, racist or homophobic taunts, threats, graffiti and gestures;
•Emotional: e.g. tormenting, ridiculing, humiliating and ignoring;
•Sexual: e.g. unwanted physical contact or abusive comments.
4.3.6
The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated. It can cause considerable distress to young people, to the extent that it affects their health and development or, at the extreme, causes them significant harm (including self-harm). There are a number of signs that may indicate that a young person or disabled adult is being bullied:
•behavioural changes such as reduced concentration and/or becoming withdrawn,
clingy, depressed, tearful, emotionally up and down, reluctance to go to school,
training or sports club;
•a drop off in performance at school or standard of play;
•physical signs such as stomach-aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, bed-wetting, scratching and bruising, damaged clothes, and binging for example on food, cigarettes or alcohol;
•a shortage of money or frequent loss of possessions.
5 CLUB CHILD PROTECTION OFFICER
Introduction
All clubs must identify a designated person to be titled the Club Child Protection Officer to handle child protection issues. Prior to appointment, this person will be required to undertake a Criminal Records Check. This person must have a formal role on the club’s management committee.
Once clearance has been received from the Rugby League Child Protection Officer, an identity card will be issued to validate the appointment. The Club Child Protection Officer will require support from the club, and designated training will be provided. The club may appoint more than one Child Protection Officer if they so wish to cater for particular age groups and genders.
The role of the Club Child Protection Officer is crucial in ensuring that the Rugby League Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures work in practice.
The Club Child Protection Officer acts as the first point of contact for anyone in the club (staff, volunteer, parents or children) who has a concern about a child and about poor practice/possible abuse by adults working with children.
The Club Child Protection Officer therefore needs to be perceived as being approachable and as having a child-focussed approach.
The Club Child Protection Officer does not need to be a child protection ‘expert’. That is the role of the statutory agencies (Police and Social Services). Ideally, they should have a background in working with children such as teachers, childminders, social workers, Police child protection team officers, child health workers.
The Club Child Protection Officer needs to be supported by their club management committee and should have a formal role on the committee. The committee should adopt a child protection policy and procedures as per Appendix C. The club should also produce a plan about how this will be put into practice and how they will review how it is working. Support and resources will be provided by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer.
5.1 Club Child Protection Officer Job Description
The following sections outline the core knowledge, skills and tasks for this role. Core knowledge is provided in the Club Child Protection Officer training module.
The Club Child Protection Officer should attend the sports coach UK ‘Good Practice and Child Protection’ course or an equivalent designated by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer prior to specific Club Child Protection Officer training.
Knowledge
•Basic knowledge of core legislation, government guidance and national framework for child protection
•Basic knowledge of roles and responsibilities of statutory agencies (Social Services, Police and Area Child Protection Committees).
•Local arrangements for managing child protection and reporting procedures.
•Poor practice and abuse – behaviour that is harmful to children.
•Rugby League’s role and responsibilities to safeguard the welfare of children and young people – boundaries of the Club Child Protection Officer role.
•Rugby League’s policy and procedures related to safeguarding children and young people.
•Core values and principles underpinning practice.
•Awareness of equity issues and child protection.
RECOMMENDED
•Basic knowledge of how abusers ‘target’ and ‘groom’ organisations to abuse children. Best practice in prevention.
Skills
•Basic administration – maintain records
•Basic advice and support provision
•Child focused approach
•Communication
•Ability to promote Rugby League’s policy, procedures and resources
•Ability to provide information about local resources
Tasks
•Assist Rugby League to fulfil its responsibilities to safeguard children and young people at club level.
•Assist Rugby League to implement its child protection plan at club level.
•The first point of contact for staff, volunteers, parents and children/young people where concerns about children’s welfare, poor practice or child abuse are identified.
•Be the first point of contact with the Rugby League Child Protection Officer.
•Implement Rugby League’s reporting and recording procedures.
•Maintain contact details for local Social Services, the Police and know how to obtain Area Child Protection Committee guidelines.
•Promote Rugby League’s best practice guidance/code of conduct and ethics within the club.
•Sit on the club’s management committee
•Promote and ensure adherence to Rugby League’s child protection training plan.
•Promote and ensure confidentiality is maintained.
•Promote anti-discriminatory practice
•Facilitate Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure forms within the club.
6 RESPONDING TO DISCLOSURE, SUSPICIONS AND ALLEGATIONS
6.1 How to Respond to a disclosure from A Young Person
If a young person informs you directly that he/she, or another young person, is concerned about someone’s behaviour towards them (this is termed a ‘disclosure’), the person receiving information should:
•react calmly so as not to frighten or deter the young person;
•tell the young person he/she is not to blame and that he/she was right to tell;
•take what the person says seriously, recognising the difficulties inherent in interpreting what is said by a young person who has a speech disability and/or differences in language;
•keep any questions to the absolute minimum to ensure a clear and accurate understanding of what has been said;
•reassure the young person but do not make promises of confidentiality which might not be feasible in the light of subsequent developments;
•l seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Expert advice can also be provided by the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111.
6.1.2 Actions to avoid
The person receiving the disclosure should not:
•panic;
•allow their shock or distaste to show;
•do not ask questions other than to clarify that you have enough information to act;
•speculate or make assumptions;
•make negative comments about the alleged abuser;
•approach the alleged abuser;
•make promises or agree to keep secrets.
N.B. It may not be that all young players are able to express themselves verbally. Communication difficulties may mean that it is hard for them to complain or be understood. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish the signs of abuse from the symptoms of some disabilities or conditions, in relation to the nature of an individual’s impairment. However, where there are concerns about the safety of a young player, record what has been observed in detail and follow the procedures to report these concerns, as detailed in 6.2 and 6.3.
6.2 Action to take regarding allegations within Rugby League
If a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused within the Rugby League environment OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse or poor practice within the Rugby League environment, you must REACT IMMEDIATELY.
6.2.1 Poor Practice
•contact the Club Child Protection Officer. If, following consideration, the allegation is about poor practice (see definition at 4.1) then the Club Child Protection Officer will report it to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer. If the Club Child Protection Officer is unavailable or is the subject of the allegation, then the matter should be reported directly to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer;
•the Rugby League Child Protection Officer and/or one or more members of the Rugby
League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel, will make the decision on how the allegation is to be dealt with, e.g. Internally by the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel, externally as a matter for Social Services and/or the Police or referral back to the club Child Protection Officer. A decision will also be made with regard to suspending the individual concerned, pending the outcome of the internal or external enquiry;
•a Child Protection Disciplinary Hearing will be held which will include the Chair and two other members, with a designated Secretary in attendance.
There is no time limit to the submission of allegations or incidents of a Child Protection nature.
Possible Outcomes of the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel Hearing
•No case to answer
•Warrants advice/warning as to future conduct/sanctions.
•Further training and support needed.
Appeals
The appeals procedure is available to anyone under investigation as part of natural justice. The Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Appeal Panel will exclude anyone sitting on the initial panel, excluding the Secretary. The Panel should comprise of a Chair and two other members with the Secretary in attendance. Every organisation and player wishing to appeal against decisions by the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel must do so in writing, to be received by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer within seven (7) days of the decision being made.
Monitoring and Evaluation
To be conducted at the close of the case to see if changes need to be made to policies /procedures or lessons can be learnt.
6.2.2 Possible Abuse Situation
If a young person says or indicates that he/she is being abused, or information is obtained or observations are made which gives concern that a young person is being abused, you must REACT IMMEDIATELY.
•ensure the safety of the young person - if the young person needs immediate medical treatment, take the young person to hospital or call an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure they are aware it is a child protection issue;
•if available contact the Club Child Protection Officer immediately who will follow the reporting procedures detailed below. If the Club Child Protection officer cannot be contacted or is the subject of the allegation, then the person that has the concerns about the young person’s welfare should follow the reporting procedures.
Reporting Procedures
•seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Expert advice can also be provided by the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111;
•l make a full and factual record of events utilising the Incident Referral Form (Template Four) and forward a copy of the recorded information, as directed by the Social Services and/or Police, and also to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer who will take appropriate action. Contact the Club Child Protection Officer as soon as possible, who should also receive a copy of the recorded information.
Possible Outcomes
Where there is a complaint of abuse against a member of staff or volunteer, investigations may include:
•Police enquiry;
•Criminal proceedings;
•Civil proceedings;
•Referral back to Child Protection Disciplinary Panel.
The results of the Police and/or Social Services investigation may help to inform the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel investigation, but not necessarily.
Dealing with concerns, disclosure or allegations about staff or volunteers within Rugby League.
Immediate action to take if a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused within the Rugby League environment OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse or poor practice within the Rugby League environment.
6.3 Action to take regarding allegations outside Rugby League
If a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused outside the Rugby League environment (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League) OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse outside the Rugby League environment (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League), you must REACT IMMEDIATELY. (See Section 4.2.4 for Indicators of Abuse).
•ensure the safety of the young person - if the young person needs immediate medical treatment, take the young person to hospital or call an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure they are aware it is a child protection issue;
•if available, contact the Club Child Protection Officer immediately who will follow the reporting procedures detailed below. If the Club Child Protection Officer is unavailable or cannot be contacted, the person that has concerns about a young person’s welfare should follow the reporting procedures.
Reporting Procedures
•seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Expert advice can also be provided by the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111.
•make a full and factual record of events utilising the Incident Referral Form (Template Four) and forward a copy of the recorded information, as directed by the Social Services and/or Police, and also to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer. Contact the Club Child Protection Officer as soon as possible, who should also receive a copy of the recorded information;
•if the individual being accused is from within the Rugby League environment, The Rugby League Child Protection Officer will consider suspension of the individual concerned following contact with Social Services or the Police. The case will be referred to the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel following completion of the Police/Social Services investigation.
It is never easy to respond to a young person who tells you that they are being abused and you may feel upset and worried yourself. Make sure that you are offered adequate support by discussing the matter with the Rugby League Child Protection Officer.
6.4 Reinstatement and Aftermath
6.4.1 Reinstatement
•Irrespective of the findings of the Social Services or Police Enquiries, the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel will assess all individual cases to decide whether a member of staff or volunteer can be reinstated and how this can be sensitively handled. This may be a difficult decision; particularly where there is insufficient evidence to uphold any action by the Police. In such cases, the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel
must reach a decision based upon the available information which could suggest that on a balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true. The welfare of young people should always remain paramount.
6.4.2 Support to Deal with the Aftermath
•Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate to young people, parents and members of staff. Use of Helplines, support groups and open meetings will maintain an open culture and help the healing process. The British Association of Counselling Directory1 may be a useful resource.
1 The British Association of Counselling Directory is available from The British Association of Counselling, 1 Regent Place, Rugby, CV21 2PJ, Tel: 01788 550899, Fax: 01788 562189, Email: bac@bac.co.uk. Internet: http://www.bac.co.uk
Dealing with concerns, disclosure or allegations outside the Rugby League setting
Immediate action to take if a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused outside the Rugby League setting (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League) OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse outside the Rugby League setting (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League)
•Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate to the alleged perpetrator of the abuse.
6.5 Records and Information
Information passed to the Social Services or the Police must be as helpful as possible, hence the necessity for making a detailed record at the time of the disclosure/concern. Ideally this information should be compiled utilising the Incident Referral Form at Template Four.
Information required at the referral stage:
Child
•Age / gender / name / disabilities / address / parental responsibility / culture / agencies already working with the family / relationship between young person and accused.
Accused
•Name / address / position in sport - employee / volunteer / paid / level of coach;
•Any other allegations;
•Marital status;
•Age;
•Previous incidents.
Primary evidence
Core information about the alleged incident.
•Facts from the person making the allegation including dates/times/venue/witness details;
•Records with dates;
•Has anyone else been informed or is anyone else already involved in the investigation.
Reporting the matter to the Police or Social Services department should not be delayed by attempts to obtain more information. Wherever possible, referrals telephoned to the Social Services department should be confirmed in writing within 24 hours. A record should also be made of the name and designation of the Social Services member of staff or Police officer to whom the concerns were passed, together with the time and date of the call, in case any follow up is needed. A copy of this information should also be sent direct to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer and a copy should be retained by the Club Child Protection Officer and stored in a secure place.
6.6 The Role of Social Services
Social Services have a statutory duty under The Children Act 1989, to ensure the welfare of children and work with the local Area Child Protection Committee (ACPC) to comply with its procedures. When a child protection referral is made, the Social Services staff has a legal responsibility to make enquiries where a child who lives or is found in their area is considered to be at risk of, or actually suffering from, significant harm. This may involve talking to the young person and family, and gathering information from other people who know the young person. Enquiries may be carried out jointly with the Police where a crime has been alleged. If action needs to be taken urgently and out of office hours, then the Police will deal with the enquiry sensitively and effectively. Local authorities will need to link in closely with their respective ACPC and cross-reference the guidance produced by the ACPC.
6.7 Confidentiality
Every effort should be made to ensure that confidentiality is maintained for all concerned.
Information should be handled and disseminated on a ‘need to know basis’ only. This includes the following people:
•the Club Child Protection Officer;
•the parents of the person who is alleged to have been abused (only following advice from Social Services);
•the person making the allegation;
•Social Services/Police;
•the Rugby League Child Protection Officer, the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel and members;
•the alleged abuser (and parents if the alleged abuser is a young person) only following advice from Social Services.
Information should be stored in a secure place with limited access to designated people, in line with data protection laws (e.g. that information is accurate, regularly updated, relevant and secure).
6.8 Allegations of previous abuse
Allegations of abuse may be made some time after the event (e.g. by an adult who was abused as a young person or by a member of staff who is still currently working with children). Where such an allegation is made, the club should follow the procedures as detailed in 6.2.2 and 6.3. This is because other children, either within or outside sport, may be at risk from this person. Anyone who has a previous criminal conviction for offences related to abuse is automatically excluded from working with children. This is reinforced by the detail
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY
AND IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES
CONTENTS
Introduction 1
1 Policy Statement 2
2 Recruitment, employment and deployment of staff and volunteers 43 Promoting good practice with young people 7
4 Recognition of poor practice, abuse and bullying 9
5 Club Child Protection Officer13
6 Responding to disclosure, suspicions and allegations14
Appendix A - Essential contacts22
Appendix B - The Protection of Children Act 1999 23
Appendix C - Child Protection Regulation 24
Appendix D - Rugby League Code of Ethics & Conduct26
Appendix E - Dealing with disclosure application forms 32
Appendix F - Photographs/images and online usage 34
Appendix G - Photographic/filming equipment at events35
Appendix H - Transport 36
Appendix I - Travel checklists37
Appendix J – References41
PLEASE NOTE;
The templates referenced in this text are available in pdf format on the RFL website, www.rfl.uk.com within the ‘In League Together’ Child Protection section (signposted on the home page). They can also be found in ‘hard copy’ versions of the Policy and Procedures, along with additional pdf formats having been made available on the ‘Rugby League ; From Cubs to Lions’ DVD in the document folders.
INTRODUCTION
Sport can and does have a very powerful and positive influence on people - especially young people. Not only can it provide opportunities for enjoyment and achievement; it can also develop valuable qualities such as self-esteem, leadership and teamwork. These positive effects can only take place if sport is in the right hands - in the hands of those who place the welfare of all young people first and adopt practices that support, protect and empower them.
The reality is that abuse does take place in sport and in some cases coaches and other trusted adults in sport have been convicted. Every adult has a legal and moral responsibility to protect young people in sport from abuse.
Rugby League is committed to working in partnership with all agencies to ensure that information and training opportunities are available to ensure best practice when working with young people. Adopting best practice will help to safeguard these participants from potential abuse as well as protecting coaches and other adults in positions of responsibility from potential false allegations of abuse. The Rugby League Child Protection Policy and
Implementation Procedures will allow young people to excel in a safe environment and transmit a reassuring signal to parents that will positively impact on recruitment.
This document is binding for the game as a whole and provides guidelines to everyone in Rugby League, whether working in a professional or voluntary capacity.
It is recognised that child abuse is a very emotive and difficult subject; however everyone in Rugby League has a duty of care towards young and vulnerable performers and can help to protect them from abuse.
Rugby League’s approach to child protection is based on the principles recognised within UK and International legislation and Government guidance. The following has been taken into consideration:
•The Children Act 1989
•The Protection of Children Act 1999
•Working Together to Safeguard Children and Young People 1999
•The Human Rights Act 1998
Acknowledgement
This document draws heavily on the work of sports coach UK and where this document reproduces that work it is reproduced by kind permission of sports coach UK. All rights reserved. Sports coach UK subscription and membership services provide a range of benefits to coaches including insurance and information services. For further details, please ring 0113 274 4802 or visit http://www.sportscoachuk.org.
Rugby League would also like to thank the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit and Sport England for their support and guidance. Special thanks also to the Amateur Swimming
Association (ASA), The Football Association and the Joint Angling Governing Bodies whose work in this field has been a valuable source of information and inspiration.
We would also like to thank Mike Hartill and Phil Prescott of Edge Hill College of Higher Education for their evaluation of the Rugby League Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures Pilot Study which has assisted tremendously in shaping the project.
BARLA should also be credited as the major driving force behind the compilation of this document. Thanks also go to Malcolm Fairhurst, the Chair of the Child Protection Disciplinary Committee, and his team for their invaluable contribution.
1 POLICY STATEMENT
1.1Responsibilities
All Rugby League agencies will:
•accept the moral and legal responsibility to implement procedures to provide a duty of care for young people, safeguard their well-being and protect them from abuse;
•respect and promote the rights, wishes and feelings of young people;
•recruit, train and supervise its employees and volunteers so as to adopt best practice
to safeguard and protect young people from abuse, and themselves against false allegations;
•require staff and volunteers to adopt and abide by the Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures which incorporate the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct;
•respond to any allegations appropriately.
1.2Principles
The guidance given in the procedures is based on the following principles:
•this policy recognises and builds on the legal and statutory definitions of a child;
•the distinction between ages of consent, civil and criminal liability are recognised but in the pursuit of good practice in the delivery and management of Rugby League, a young person is recognised as being under the age of 18 years (Children’s Act 1989 definition);
•an adult has a moral and statutory duty for the care, custody and control of any child under the age of 18 under their supervision;
•the child’s welfare is paramount;
•all young people, whatever their age, culture, any disability they may have, gender, language, racial origin, religious belief and sexual identity have the right to protection from abuse;
•all incidents of poor practice or suspicions of poor practice and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately;
•all young people have a right to play the game of Rugby League in an enjoyable and safe climate;
•young players have a right to expect appropriate management, support, personal and social development with regard to their involvement in the game of Rugby League, whether they are playing in the amateur or professional game;
•it is the responsibility of the child protection experts and agencies to determine whether or not abuse has taken place but it is everyone’s responsibility to report any concerns;
•confidentiality should be upheld in line with the Data Protection Act 1984 and the Human Rights Act 2000.
Working in partnership with young people, their parents and other agencies is essential for the protection of young people. Although Rugby League agencies recognise the statutory responsibility of the Social Services department to ensure the welfare of young people and work with the local Area Child Protection Committee (ACPC) to comply with its procedures, child protection has a broader remit within the game of Rugby League. All those involved in the management of young players in Rugby League have a duty to ensure that young players are:
•allowed access to the game in a way that is appropriate for their age and ability;
•coached and trained by appropriately qualified staff;
•not required to play in so many games, or to attend training sessions, as to become a threat to their well being;
•not subjected to verbal or racial abuse from any source, especially from the touch lines, including references to height, weight etc.;
•not subjected to bullying or undue pressure from any source;
•encouraged to achieve their full potential at all levels;
•instructed on how to behave, both on and off the pitch;
•afforded respect, confidentiality and privacy in a playing and training situation and any other Rugby League environment.
1.3Incorporation
The Rugby League Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures shall be adopted in accordance with Appendix C by the following;
•The Rugby Football League and its Members.
•All other bodies involved in the sport of Rugby League in the United Kingdom which provide the opportunity to work with children and young people up to the age of eighteen.
1.4Assent
All individuals involved in Rugby League in the United Kingdom at every level, including players, match officials, coaches, administrators, club officials, spectators, and scouts agree to abide by the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct (â€ÂCodeâ€Â) (Appendix D) and all such individuals by participating or being involved in Rugby League are deemed to have assented to and as such recognise and adhere to the principles and responsibilities embodied in the Code.
1.5Child Protection Regulation
The Child Protection Regulation (Appendix C) shall become a new bye law and/or become
incorporated in the constitution of each of The Rugby Football League, its Members and all
other bodies in the United Kingdom referred to in paragraph 1.3 above and shall provide a
new disciplinary process under each bodies’ respective Disciplinary Rules.
Important
Please note that the term “parents†is used throughout this document as a generic term to
represent parents, carers and guardians.
Please note that the term “young person†also refers to players with disabilities and vulnerable adults.
The term “club†is used throughout this document as a generic term to represent any Rugby League agency in charge of players under the age of 18 years.
“Members†shall mean each of those clubs who are member clubs of the Rugby Football League as listed (and amended from time to time) in Part II of the Schedule to the Rugby Football League Constitution, BARLA, the English Schools Rugby League, the Combined Services Rugby League and the Student Rugby League.
2 RECRUITMENT, EMPLOYMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
Introduction
Anyone may have the potential to abuse young people, therefore all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with them. It is essential that the same procedures are used consistently for all posts whether staff are paid or voluntary, full-time or part-time. Under the Protection of Children Act 1999, all individuals working on behalf of, or otherwise representing, an organisation are treated as employees whether working in a paid or voluntary capacity.
2.1 Pre-Recruitment checks
The following pre-recruitment checks should always be carried out:
2.2 Advertising
If any form of advertising is used to recruit staff, whether paid or voluntary, it should reflect the:
•aims of the club and where appropriate, the particular programme involved;
•key responsibilities of the role;
•level of experience or qualifications required (e.g. experience of working with young people is an advantage);
•the club’s open and positive stance on child protection and equal opportunities.
2.2.2 Pre-Application Information
Pre-application information sent to interested or potential applicants should contain:
•a job description, including roles and responsibilities;
•a person specification (e.g. stating qualifications or experience required);
•an application form (Template Two).
2.2.3 Applications for all posts
All applicants, whether for paid or voluntary, full-time or part-time positions, should complete an application form. An application form which has been designed to elicit the necessary information is on Template One.
If an applicant has no experience of working with young people, training is strongly recommended.
A minimum of two written references should be taken up and at least one should be associated with former work with young people only when the position has been offered to an applicant (Template Three).
2.2.4 Short listing
Independent short listing by the designated committee will be made for each post in accordance with the application form and the relevant person specification.
2.3 Interview, disclosure and induction
A formal interview is always required for positions involving working with young people. The interview should be carried out according to acceptable protocol and recommendations1.
1 Good advice on general recruitment, interview techniques and good practice is contained in the Running Sport publication Employment Matters and the sports coach UK publication Investing in Coaches - A Guide to Local Coaching Development (both available from Coachwise Ltd. on 0113 231 1310).
All those with significant access to young people will be required to complete a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Disclosure (Appendix E). All those with occasional access to young people, i.e. all club volunteers and employees who have not been required to complete a CRB Disclosure will be required to complete a self disclosure form (Template One). The CRB Disclosure and the self-disclosure form must be completed once every three years.
The successful applicant will only be allowed to take up his/her duties once their CRB check has been cleared by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer and the appointing Rugby League Agency has received two (2) satisfactory references.
All staff, paid or voluntary, will undergo a formal induction in which:
•their qualifications as a coach/official are substantiated;
•they complete a profile to identify training needs/aspirations;
•they are reminded that they have agreed to abide by the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct (Appendix D), and they may face disciplinary action if there is an allegation that the Code has been broken;
•the expectations, roles and responsibilities of the job are clarified (e.g. through a formal or informal work programme or goal-setting exercise);
•child protection policy and implementation procedures are explained and training needs established;
•if practicable, the new recruit should be mentored by an experienced person.
2.4 Training
Checks are only part of the process to protect young people from possible abuse. Appropriate training will enable individuals to recognise their responsibilities with regard to their own good practice and the reporting of suspected poor practice/concerns of possible abuse.
There will be a full range of Child Protection training opportunities within Rugby League, details of which will be communicated throughout the game and updated periodically.
2.5 Monitoring and appraisal
At regular intervals (or following a particular programme), all employees or volunteers should be given the opportunity to receive formal (e.g. through an appraisal) or informal feedback, to identify training needs and set new goals. Club Management should be sensitive to any concerns about poor practice or abuse and act on them at an early stage following the guidelines in this document. The club management should also offer appropriate support, through liaison with the Rugby League Child Protection Officer, to those who report concerns/complaints.
2.6 Complaints and disciplinary procedures
Clubs should ensure that parents and young people are aware of the complaints and disciplinary procedures detailed in this document.
2.7 Applications from within the club
If an individual within the club wishes to move to a post with substantial access to young people, that individual must go through the application process described in 2.2.3.
A. Recruitment and Selection of Staff and Volunteers
2PROMOTING GOOD PRACTICE WITH YOUNG PEOPLE
Introduction
Child abuse, particularly sexual abuse, can generate strong emotions in those facing such a situation. It is important to understand these feelings and not allow them to interfere with your judgement about any action to take. Abuse can occur within many situations including the home, school and the sporting environment. Some individuals will actively seek employment or voluntary work with young people in order to harm them.
A coach, teacher, official or volunteer may have regular contact with young people and be an important link in identifying cases where a young person needs protection. All suspicious cases of poor practice should be reported following the guidelines in this document. When a young person enters the club having been subjected to child abuse outside the sporting environment, sport can play a crucial role in improving the young person’s self esteem. In such instances the club must work with the appropriate agencies to ensure the young person receives the required support.
3.1 Good practice guidelines
All personnel should be encouraged to demonstrate exemplary behaviour in order to protect themselves from false allegations. The following are common sense examples of how to create a positive culture and climate within Rugby League:
3.1.1 Good practice means:
•always working in an open environment (e.g. avoiding private or unobserved situations and encouraging an open environment (e.g. no secrets);
•treating all young people equally, and with respect and dignity;
•always putting the welfare of each young person first, before winning or achieving goals;
•maintaining a safe and appropriate distance with players (e.g. it is not appropriate to have an intimate relationship with a young person or to share a room with them);
•building balanced relationships based on mutual trust which empowers young people to share in the decision-making process;
•making sport fun, enjoyable and promoting fair play;
•ensuring that if any form of manual/physical support is required, it should be provided openly and according to guidelines provided by the Rugby League Coach Education Programme. Care is needed, as it is difficult to maintain hand contact positions when the young person is constantly moving. Young people should always be consulted and their agreement gained. Some parents are becoming increasingly sensitive about manual support and their views should always be carefully considered;
•keeping up to date with the technical skills, qualifications and insurance in sport;
•if groups have to be supervised in the changing rooms, always ensure parents/teachers coaches/officials work in pairs;
•ensuring that if mixed teams are taken away, they should always be accompanied by a male and female member of staff. (N.B. However, same gender abuse can also occur);
•ensuring that at tournaments or residential events, adults should not enter children’s rooms or invite children into their rooms. If an adult is working in a supervisory capacity, they should only enter childrens rooms when accompanied by another adult;
•being an excellent role model - this includes not smoking or drinking alcohol in the company of young people and promoting a healthy diet;
•giving enthusiastic and constructive feedback rather than negative criticism;
•recognising the developmental needs and capacity of young people - avoiding excessive training or competition and not pushing them against their will;
•securing parental consent in writing to act in loco parentis (Template Five), if the need arises to give permission for the administration of emergency first aid and/or other medical treatment;
•keeping a written record of any injury that occurs, along with the details of any treatment given (Template Six). Where staff witness an injury this must be reported to the parents at the first opportunity;
•requesting written parental consent if club officials are required to transport young people in their cars (Appendix H).
Coaching Ratios
In accordance with the Rugby League Coach Education Programme’s current guidelines, the suggested coaching ratios are as follows:
‘When working with groups of children the ideal coaching ratio is one coach for every 8-12 players. One coach to 16 players is acceptable, but larger ratios mean you are in danger of losing control.’ Equally, if there is an accident or an incident to a young person or member of staff, you should ensure that there are enough members of staff remaining to supervise the group.
Changing rooms
Players should be supervised at all times in the changing rooms by two (2) members of staff. Adult staff should not change or shower at the same time using the same facility as players. If you are involved in a mixed gender team, separate facilities should be made available. If a young person is uncomfortable changing or showering in public no pressure should be placed on them to do so. Encourage them to do this at home. If your club has players with disabilities involve them and their carers in deciding how they should be assisted and ensure they are able to consent to the assistance that is offered.
Any staff, medical or otherwise, for example, a female physio working with a male team, must not be present in the changing rooms whilst players are getting showered or changed.
No photographic equipment should be allowed in the changing room environment. This includes cameras, video cameras, mobile phones with photographic capabilities etc.
Treatment of young people
•It is recommended that no young person should be treated in any way in a situation where the young person is on his/her own in a treatment room with the door closed;
•It is strongly recommended that all treatment procedures should be ‘open’ i.e. the door remains open, parents are invited to observe treatment procedures. Where strict medical confidentiality is to be observed then the parents of the young person should be invited to attend;
•It is recommended that if treating an area of the body which is potentially embarrassing to a young person (i.e. the groin) a suitable consenting adult acting as a chaperone should be present;
•It is important to maintain medical confidentiality and patient dignity at all times;
•Prior to medical treatment being carried out on a young person, parental consent in the written form must be sought where appropriate (Appendix H);
•It is recommended that all treatment procedures are explained fully to the young person and verbal consent is given before they are carried out.
3.1.2 Practice to be avoided
The following should be avoided except in emergencies. If cases arise where these situations are unavoidable they should only occur with the full knowledge and consent of someone in charge at the club or the young person’s parents. For example, a young person sustains an injury and needs to go to hospital, or a parent fails to arrive to pick a young person up at the end of a session (Appendix H):
•avoid spending excessive amounts of time alone with young people away from others;
•never take young people to your home where they will be alone with you.
3.1.3 Practice never to be sanctioned
The following should never be sanctioned. You should never:
•engage in rough, physical or sexually provocative games, including horseplay;
•share a room with a young person;
•allow or engage in any form of inappropriate touching;
•allow young people to use inappropriate language unchallenged;
•make sexually suggestive comments to a young person, even in fun;
•reduce a young person to tears as a form of control;
•allow allegations made by a young person to go unchallenged, unrecorded or not acted upon;
•do things of a personal nature for young people or disabled adults, that they can do
for themselves;
•invite or allow young people to stay with you at your home unsupervised.
N.B. It may sometimes be necessary for staff or volunteers to do things of a personal nature for young people, particularly if they are young or are disabled. These tasks should only be carried out with the full understanding and consent of parents and the players involved. There is a need to be responsive to a person’s reactions. If a person is fully dependent on you, talk with him/her about what you are doing and give choices where possible. This is particularly so if you are involved in any dressing or undressing of outer clothing, or where there is physical contact, lifting or assisting a young person to carry out particular activities. Avoid taking on the responsibility for tasks for which you are not appropriately trained.
If any of the following incidents should occur, you should report them immediately to another colleague and make a written note of the event. Parents should also be informed of the incident:
•if you accidentally hurt a player;
•if he/she seems distressed in any manner;
•if a player appears to be sexually aroused by your actions;
•if a player misunderstands or misinterprets something you have done.
3.3 Relationships of trust
“The inequality at the heart of a relationship of trust should be ended before any sexual relationship begins.†Caring for Young People and the Vulnerable? Guidance for preventing abuse of trust (Home Office 1999)
This statement recognises that genuine relationships do occur between the different levels of volunteers and participants in a group but that no intimate relationship should begin whilst the member of staff or volunteer is in a ‘position of trust’ over them. The power and influence that an older member of staff has over someone attending a group or activity cannot be under-estimated. If there is an additional competitive aspect to the activity and the older person is responsible for the young person’s success or failure to some extent, then the dependency of the younger member upon the older will be increased. It is therefore vital for volunteers to recognise the responsibility they must exercise in ensuring that they do not abuse their positions of trust. Young people aged 16-18 can legally consent to some types of sexual activity; however, in some provisions of legislation they are classified as children.
If you engage in an intimate or inappropriate relationship with a young person it is a breach of the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct and as such will result in disciplinary action.
In certain circumstances the ‘abuse of trust’ is a criminal offence (Sexual Offences Amendment Act 2000 - UK wide).
3.4 Guidelines for use of photographic filming equipment at sporting events
There is evidence that some people have used sporting events as an opportunity to take inappropriate photographs or film footage of young and disabled sports people in vulnerable positions.
It is advisable that all clubs adhere to the appropriate guidelines detailed in Appendix F.
4 RECOGNITION OF POOR PRACTICE, ABUSE AND BULLYING
Introduction
Child abuse can and does occur outside the family setting. Even for those experienced in working with child abuse, it is not always easy to recognise a situation where abuse may occur or has already taken place. The staff and volunteers in Rugby League, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity, are not experts at such recognition. However, they do have a responsibility to act if they have any concerns about the behaviour of someone (an adult or another young person) towards a young person and to follow the procedures in this document.
4.1 Poor practice
Allegations may relate to poor practice where an adult’s or another young person’s behaviour is inappropriate and may be causing concern to a young person. In the application of this Policy, poor practice includes any behaviour of a child protection nature which contravenes the Rugby League Code of Ethics and Conduct (Appendix D), infringes
an individuals’ rights and/or is a failure to fulfil the highest standards of care. Poor practice is unacceptable in Rugby League and will be treated seriously and appropriate actions taken.
4.2 Abuse
Abuse can happen wherever there are young people of any age. The effects of abuse can be so damaging and if untreated, they may follow a person into adulthood. For example, a person who has been abused as a young person may find it difficult or impossible to maintain stable, trusting relationships, become involved with drugs or prostitution, attempt suicide or even abuse a young person in the future.
4.2.1 Disabled People
There have been a number of studies, which suggest young people (or adults) with disabilities, are at increased risk of abuse. Various factors contribute to this, such as stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination, isolation and a powerlessness to protect themselves, or adequately communicate that abuse has occurred1.
1 Kerr, A (1999) Protecting Disabled Children and Adults in Sport and Recreation. Contact Disability Sport England (Tel: 020 7490 4919).
4.2.2 Race and Racism
Young people from ethnic minority groups (and their parents) are likely to have experienced harassment, racial discrimination and institutional racism. Although racism causes significant harm it is not, in itself, a category of abuse. All organisations working with young people, including those operating where ethnic minority communities are numerically small, should address institutional racism, defined in the Macpherson Inquiry Report on the death of Stephen Lawrence as ‘the collective failure by an organisation to provide appropriate and professional service to people on account of their race, culture and/or religion’. Details of the ‘Tackle Racism in Rugby League’ campaign are available from BARLA and the RFL.
4.2.3 Abuse and Neglect
Somebody may abuse or neglect a young person by inflicting harm, or by failing to act to prevent harm. Young people may be abused in a family or in an institutional or community setting by those known to them or, more rarely, by a stranger.
Neglect - where adults fail to meet a young person’s basic physical and/or psychological needs, likely to result in the serious impairment of the young person’s health or development (e.g. failure to provide adequate food, shelter and clothing, failing to protect a young person from physical harm or danger, or the failure to ensure access to appropriate medical care or treatment.) It may also include refusal to give young people love, affection and attention. Neglect in sport could include a teacher or coach not ensuring young people were safe, exposing them to undue cold, heat or to unnecessary risk of injury.
Physical abuse - where adults physically hurt or injure young people by hitting, shaking, throwing, poisoning, burning, biting, or scalding, suffocating, drowning or otherwise causing physical harm to a young person. Physical harm may also be caused when a parent feigns the symptoms of, or deliberately causes ill health to a young person whom they are looking after e.g. factitious illness by proxy or Munchausen’s syndrome by proxy. Examples of physical abuse in Rugby League may be when the nature and intensity of training and competition exceeds the capacity of the young person’s immature and growing body; where drugs are used to enhance performance or delay puberty.
Sexual abuse - where girls and boys are abused by adults (both male and female) who use young people to meet their own sexual needs. This could include full sexual intercourse, masturbation, oral sex, anal intercourse and fondling. Showing young people pornographic material (books, videos, pictures) or talking to young people in a sexually explicit manner is also a form of sexual abuse. In sport, coaching techniques, which involve physical contact with young people, could potentially create situations where sexual abuse may go unnoticed. The power of the coach over young performers, if misused, may also lead to abusive situations developing.
Emotional abuse - is the persistent emotional ill treatment of a young person such
as to cause severe and persistent adverse effects on the young person’s emotional development. It may involve conveying to young people that they are worthless or unloved, inadequate, or valued only insofar as they meet the needs of another person. It may feature age or developmentally inappropriate expectations being imposed on young people. It may involve causing young people to feel frightened or in danger by being constantly shouted at, threatened or taunted which may make the young person very nervous and withdrawn. Some level of emotional abuse is involved in all types of ill treatment of a young person. Emotional abuse in Rugby League may occur if young people are subjected to constant criticism, name-calling, and sarcasm, bullying or unrealistic pressure to perform to high expectations consistently.
The above definitions are adapted from Department of Health (1999) Working Together to Safeguard Children - A guide to inter-agency working to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
4.2.4 Indicators of Abuse
Indications that a young person may be being abused include the following:
•unexplained or suspicious injuries such as bruising, cuts or burns, particularly if situated on a part of the body not normally prone to such injuries;
•an injury for which the explanation seems inconsistent;
•the young person describes what appears to be an abusive act involving him/her;
•someone else (a young person or adult) expresses concern about the welfare of another young person;
•unexplained changes in behaviour (e.g. becoming very quiet, withdrawn or displaying sudden outbursts of temper);
•inappropriate sexual awareness;
•engaging in sexually explicit behaviour;
•distrust of adults, particularly those with whom a close relationship would normally be expected;
•has difficulty in making friends;
•is prevented from socialising with other young people;
•displays variations in eating patterns including overeating or loss of appetite;
•loses weight for no apparent reason;
•becomes increasingly dirty or unkempt.
It should be recognised that this list is not exhaustive and the presence of one or more of the indicators is not proof that abuse is actually taking place. A good working relationship with parents will help to identify any concerns that a young person may be experiencing, e.g. family bereavement.
It is not the responsibility of those working in Rugby League to decide that child abuse is occurring but it is their responsibility to act on any concerns. (See Section 6)
4.3 Bullying
It is important to recognise that in some cases of abuse, it may not always be an adult abusing a young person. It can occur that the abuser may be a young person, for example in the case of bullying. Bullying may be seen as deliberately hurtful behaviour, usually repeated over a period of time, where it is difficult for those bullied to defend themselves.
Nancy Duin defined bullying as ‘repeated (systematic) aggressive verbal, psychological or physical conduct by an individual or group against another person or persons’ (Bullying, a Survival Guide, produced by BBC Education).
4.3.1
Although anyone can be the target of bullying, victims are typically shy, sensitive and perhaps anxious or insecure. Sometimes they are singled out for physical reasons - being overweight, physically small, having a disability or belonging to a different race, faith or culture.
4.3.2
Girls and boys can be bullies although it seems to be more conspicuous in boys. Although bullying often takes place in schools1 research shows it can and does occur anywhere where there is inadequate supervision - on the way to and from school, at a sporting event, in the playground and changing rooms.
4.3.3
Bullies come from all walks of life; they bully for a variety of different reasons and may even have been abused. Typically, bullies can have low self-esteem, be excitable, aggressive and jealous. Crucially, they have learned how to gain power over others and there is increasing evidence to suggest that this abuse of power can lead to crime2.
1 Research by the University of Sheffield, reported in the BBC Education publication (1994) by Goldsmiths College, London, showed that 10% of primary school children and 4% of secondary school children are bullied once a week.
2 The BBC Education publication (1994) also indicates that bullies are four times more likely to become criminals.
4.3.4
The competitive nature of sport makes it an ideal environment for the bully. The bully in Rugby League can be:
•a parent who pushes too hard;
•a coach who adopts a ‘win-at-all costs’ philosophy;
•a player who intimidates inappropriately;
•a club official who places unfair pressure on a person
•a spectator who shouts abuse.
4.3.5
Bullying can include:
•Physical: e.g. hitting, kicking and theft;
•Verbal: e.g. name-calling, constant teasing, and sarcasm, racist or homophobic taunts, threats, graffiti and gestures;
•Emotional: e.g. tormenting, ridiculing, humiliating and ignoring;
•Sexual: e.g. unwanted physical contact or abusive comments.
4.3.6
The damage inflicted by bullying can frequently be underestimated. It can cause considerable distress to young people, to the extent that it affects their health and development or, at the extreme, causes them significant harm (including self-harm). There are a number of signs that may indicate that a young person or disabled adult is being bullied:
•behavioural changes such as reduced concentration and/or becoming withdrawn,
clingy, depressed, tearful, emotionally up and down, reluctance to go to school,
training or sports club;
•a drop off in performance at school or standard of play;
•physical signs such as stomach-aches, headaches, difficulty in sleeping, bed-wetting, scratching and bruising, damaged clothes, and binging for example on food, cigarettes or alcohol;
•a shortage of money or frequent loss of possessions.
5 CLUB CHILD PROTECTION OFFICER
Introduction
All clubs must identify a designated person to be titled the Club Child Protection Officer to handle child protection issues. Prior to appointment, this person will be required to undertake a Criminal Records Check. This person must have a formal role on the club’s management committee.
Once clearance has been received from the Rugby League Child Protection Officer, an identity card will be issued to validate the appointment. The Club Child Protection Officer will require support from the club, and designated training will be provided. The club may appoint more than one Child Protection Officer if they so wish to cater for particular age groups and genders.
The role of the Club Child Protection Officer is crucial in ensuring that the Rugby League Child Protection Policy and Implementation Procedures work in practice.
The Club Child Protection Officer acts as the first point of contact for anyone in the club (staff, volunteer, parents or children) who has a concern about a child and about poor practice/possible abuse by adults working with children.
The Club Child Protection Officer therefore needs to be perceived as being approachable and as having a child-focussed approach.
The Club Child Protection Officer does not need to be a child protection ‘expert’. That is the role of the statutory agencies (Police and Social Services). Ideally, they should have a background in working with children such as teachers, childminders, social workers, Police child protection team officers, child health workers.
The Club Child Protection Officer needs to be supported by their club management committee and should have a formal role on the committee. The committee should adopt a child protection policy and procedures as per Appendix C. The club should also produce a plan about how this will be put into practice and how they will review how it is working. Support and resources will be provided by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer.
5.1 Club Child Protection Officer Job Description
The following sections outline the core knowledge, skills and tasks for this role. Core knowledge is provided in the Club Child Protection Officer training module.
The Club Child Protection Officer should attend the sports coach UK ‘Good Practice and Child Protection’ course or an equivalent designated by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer prior to specific Club Child Protection Officer training.
Knowledge
•Basic knowledge of core legislation, government guidance and national framework for child protection
•Basic knowledge of roles and responsibilities of statutory agencies (Social Services, Police and Area Child Protection Committees).
•Local arrangements for managing child protection and reporting procedures.
•Poor practice and abuse – behaviour that is harmful to children.
•Rugby League’s role and responsibilities to safeguard the welfare of children and young people – boundaries of the Club Child Protection Officer role.
•Rugby League’s policy and procedures related to safeguarding children and young people.
•Core values and principles underpinning practice.
•Awareness of equity issues and child protection.
RECOMMENDED
•Basic knowledge of how abusers ‘target’ and ‘groom’ organisations to abuse children. Best practice in prevention.
Skills
•Basic administration – maintain records
•Basic advice and support provision
•Child focused approach
•Communication
•Ability to promote Rugby League’s policy, procedures and resources
•Ability to provide information about local resources
Tasks
•Assist Rugby League to fulfil its responsibilities to safeguard children and young people at club level.
•Assist Rugby League to implement its child protection plan at club level.
•The first point of contact for staff, volunteers, parents and children/young people where concerns about children’s welfare, poor practice or child abuse are identified.
•Be the first point of contact with the Rugby League Child Protection Officer.
•Implement Rugby League’s reporting and recording procedures.
•Maintain contact details for local Social Services, the Police and know how to obtain Area Child Protection Committee guidelines.
•Promote Rugby League’s best practice guidance/code of conduct and ethics within the club.
•Sit on the club’s management committee
•Promote and ensure adherence to Rugby League’s child protection training plan.
•Promote and ensure confidentiality is maintained.
•Promote anti-discriminatory practice
•Facilitate Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure forms within the club.
6 RESPONDING TO DISCLOSURE, SUSPICIONS AND ALLEGATIONS
6.1 How to Respond to a disclosure from A Young Person
If a young person informs you directly that he/she, or another young person, is concerned about someone’s behaviour towards them (this is termed a ‘disclosure’), the person receiving information should:
•react calmly so as not to frighten or deter the young person;
•tell the young person he/she is not to blame and that he/she was right to tell;
•take what the person says seriously, recognising the difficulties inherent in interpreting what is said by a young person who has a speech disability and/or differences in language;
•keep any questions to the absolute minimum to ensure a clear and accurate understanding of what has been said;
•reassure the young person but do not make promises of confidentiality which might not be feasible in the light of subsequent developments;
•l seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Expert advice can also be provided by the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111.
6.1.2 Actions to avoid
The person receiving the disclosure should not:
•panic;
•allow their shock or distaste to show;
•do not ask questions other than to clarify that you have enough information to act;
•speculate or make assumptions;
•make negative comments about the alleged abuser;
•approach the alleged abuser;
•make promises or agree to keep secrets.
N.B. It may not be that all young players are able to express themselves verbally. Communication difficulties may mean that it is hard for them to complain or be understood. Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish the signs of abuse from the symptoms of some disabilities or conditions, in relation to the nature of an individual’s impairment. However, where there are concerns about the safety of a young player, record what has been observed in detail and follow the procedures to report these concerns, as detailed in 6.2 and 6.3.
6.2 Action to take regarding allegations within Rugby League
If a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused within the Rugby League environment OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse or poor practice within the Rugby League environment, you must REACT IMMEDIATELY.
6.2.1 Poor Practice
•contact the Club Child Protection Officer. If, following consideration, the allegation is about poor practice (see definition at 4.1) then the Club Child Protection Officer will report it to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer. If the Club Child Protection Officer is unavailable or is the subject of the allegation, then the matter should be reported directly to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer;
•the Rugby League Child Protection Officer and/or one or more members of the Rugby
League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel, will make the decision on how the allegation is to be dealt with, e.g. Internally by the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel, externally as a matter for Social Services and/or the Police or referral back to the club Child Protection Officer. A decision will also be made with regard to suspending the individual concerned, pending the outcome of the internal or external enquiry;
•a Child Protection Disciplinary Hearing will be held which will include the Chair and two other members, with a designated Secretary in attendance.
There is no time limit to the submission of allegations or incidents of a Child Protection nature.
Possible Outcomes of the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel Hearing
•No case to answer
•Warrants advice/warning as to future conduct/sanctions.
•Further training and support needed.
Appeals
The appeals procedure is available to anyone under investigation as part of natural justice. The Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Appeal Panel will exclude anyone sitting on the initial panel, excluding the Secretary. The Panel should comprise of a Chair and two other members with the Secretary in attendance. Every organisation and player wishing to appeal against decisions by the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel must do so in writing, to be received by the Rugby League Child Protection Officer within seven (7) days of the decision being made.
Monitoring and Evaluation
To be conducted at the close of the case to see if changes need to be made to policies /procedures or lessons can be learnt.
6.2.2 Possible Abuse Situation
If a young person says or indicates that he/she is being abused, or information is obtained or observations are made which gives concern that a young person is being abused, you must REACT IMMEDIATELY.
•ensure the safety of the young person - if the young person needs immediate medical treatment, take the young person to hospital or call an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure they are aware it is a child protection issue;
•if available contact the Club Child Protection Officer immediately who will follow the reporting procedures detailed below. If the Club Child Protection officer cannot be contacted or is the subject of the allegation, then the person that has the concerns about the young person’s welfare should follow the reporting procedures.
Reporting Procedures
•seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Expert advice can also be provided by the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111;
•l make a full and factual record of events utilising the Incident Referral Form (Template Four) and forward a copy of the recorded information, as directed by the Social Services and/or Police, and also to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer who will take appropriate action. Contact the Club Child Protection Officer as soon as possible, who should also receive a copy of the recorded information.
Possible Outcomes
Where there is a complaint of abuse against a member of staff or volunteer, investigations may include:
•Police enquiry;
•Criminal proceedings;
•Civil proceedings;
•Referral back to Child Protection Disciplinary Panel.
The results of the Police and/or Social Services investigation may help to inform the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel investigation, but not necessarily.
Dealing with concerns, disclosure or allegations about staff or volunteers within Rugby League.
Immediate action to take if a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused within the Rugby League environment OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse or poor practice within the Rugby League environment.
6.3 Action to take regarding allegations outside Rugby League
If a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused outside the Rugby League environment (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League) OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse outside the Rugby League environment (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League), you must REACT IMMEDIATELY. (See Section 4.2.4 for Indicators of Abuse).
•ensure the safety of the young person - if the young person needs immediate medical treatment, take the young person to hospital or call an ambulance, inform doctors of concerns and ensure they are aware it is a child protection issue;
•if available, contact the Club Child Protection Officer immediately who will follow the reporting procedures detailed below. If the Club Child Protection Officer is unavailable or cannot be contacted, the person that has concerns about a young person’s welfare should follow the reporting procedures.
Reporting Procedures
•seek advice immediately from the local Social Services or Police who will advise on the action to be taken, including advice on contacting parents. Expert advice can also be provided by the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or Childline on 0800 1111.
•make a full and factual record of events utilising the Incident Referral Form (Template Four) and forward a copy of the recorded information, as directed by the Social Services and/or Police, and also to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer. Contact the Club Child Protection Officer as soon as possible, who should also receive a copy of the recorded information;
•if the individual being accused is from within the Rugby League environment, The Rugby League Child Protection Officer will consider suspension of the individual concerned following contact with Social Services or the Police. The case will be referred to the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel following completion of the Police/Social Services investigation.
It is never easy to respond to a young person who tells you that they are being abused and you may feel upset and worried yourself. Make sure that you are offered adequate support by discussing the matter with the Rugby League Child Protection Officer.
6.4 Reinstatement and Aftermath
6.4.1 Reinstatement
•Irrespective of the findings of the Social Services or Police Enquiries, the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel will assess all individual cases to decide whether a member of staff or volunteer can be reinstated and how this can be sensitively handled. This may be a difficult decision; particularly where there is insufficient evidence to uphold any action by the Police. In such cases, the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel
must reach a decision based upon the available information which could suggest that on a balance of probability, it is more likely than not that the allegation is true. The welfare of young people should always remain paramount.
6.4.2 Support to Deal with the Aftermath
•Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate to young people, parents and members of staff. Use of Helplines, support groups and open meetings will maintain an open culture and help the healing process. The British Association of Counselling Directory1 may be a useful resource.
1 The British Association of Counselling Directory is available from The British Association of Counselling, 1 Regent Place, Rugby, CV21 2PJ, Tel: 01788 550899, Fax: 01788 562189, Email: bac@bac.co.uk. Internet: http://www.bac.co.uk
Dealing with concerns, disclosure or allegations outside the Rugby League setting
Immediate action to take if a young person informs you directly that he/she is being abused outside the Rugby League setting (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League) OR through your own observations or through a third party you become aware of possible abuse outside the Rugby League setting (i.e. at home or some other setting outside of Rugby League)
•Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate to the alleged perpetrator of the abuse.
6.5 Records and Information
Information passed to the Social Services or the Police must be as helpful as possible, hence the necessity for making a detailed record at the time of the disclosure/concern. Ideally this information should be compiled utilising the Incident Referral Form at Template Four.
Information required at the referral stage:
Child
•Age / gender / name / disabilities / address / parental responsibility / culture / agencies already working with the family / relationship between young person and accused.
Accused
•Name / address / position in sport - employee / volunteer / paid / level of coach;
•Any other allegations;
•Marital status;
•Age;
•Previous incidents.
Primary evidence
Core information about the alleged incident.
•Facts from the person making the allegation including dates/times/venue/witness details;
•Records with dates;
•Has anyone else been informed or is anyone else already involved in the investigation.
Reporting the matter to the Police or Social Services department should not be delayed by attempts to obtain more information. Wherever possible, referrals telephoned to the Social Services department should be confirmed in writing within 24 hours. A record should also be made of the name and designation of the Social Services member of staff or Police officer to whom the concerns were passed, together with the time and date of the call, in case any follow up is needed. A copy of this information should also be sent direct to the Rugby League Child Protection Officer and a copy should be retained by the Club Child Protection Officer and stored in a secure place.
6.6 The Role of Social Services
Social Services have a statutory duty under The Children Act 1989, to ensure the welfare of children and work with the local Area Child Protection Committee (ACPC) to comply with its procedures. When a child protection referral is made, the Social Services staff has a legal responsibility to make enquiries where a child who lives or is found in their area is considered to be at risk of, or actually suffering from, significant harm. This may involve talking to the young person and family, and gathering information from other people who know the young person. Enquiries may be carried out jointly with the Police where a crime has been alleged. If action needs to be taken urgently and out of office hours, then the Police will deal with the enquiry sensitively and effectively. Local authorities will need to link in closely with their respective ACPC and cross-reference the guidance produced by the ACPC.
6.7 Confidentiality
Every effort should be made to ensure that confidentiality is maintained for all concerned.
Information should be handled and disseminated on a ‘need to know basis’ only. This includes the following people:
•the Club Child Protection Officer;
•the parents of the person who is alleged to have been abused (only following advice from Social Services);
•the person making the allegation;
•Social Services/Police;
•the Rugby League Child Protection Officer, the Rugby League Child Protection Disciplinary Panel and members;
•the alleged abuser (and parents if the alleged abuser is a young person) only following advice from Social Services.
Information should be stored in a secure place with limited access to designated people, in line with data protection laws (e.g. that information is accurate, regularly updated, relevant and secure).
6.8 Allegations of previous abuse
Allegations of abuse may be made some time after the event (e.g. by an adult who was abused as a young person or by a member of staff who is still currently working with children). Where such an allegation is made, the club should follow the procedures as detailed in 6.2.2 and 6.3. This is because other children, either within or outside sport, may be at risk from this person. Anyone who has a previous criminal conviction for offences related to abuse is automatically excluded from working with children. This is reinforced by the detail
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