Encourage but do not force young people to play. Focus on their efforts and be realistic about their abilities; do not push them beyond the level they can achieve.

Respect match officials and encourage young players to do so.

Provide positive support at training and during games; show appreciation of good play by players from every team.

Stay positive: negative messages adversely affect the performance and attitude of players, officials and coaches.

Support the Clubs efforts to rid the game of unacceptable, abusive and violent behaviour.

AS A PARENT, GUARDIAN or CARER YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO:

Be familiar with the coaching and training programme so that you can ensure that your child is fully involved and that coaches are aware of your childs availability.

Understand the teaching and coaching methods used by observing the sessions in which your child participates.

Be aware that the Club has a duty of care and therefore, where appropriate, assist with the supervision of sessions, particularly where numbers are large or where players need transport to away games.

Be involved with Club activities and share your time and expertise.

Share concerns, if you have them, with Club officials.

Be familiar with the Good Coaches Code and support coaches in instilling the virtues it advocates.

AS A SPECTATOR YOU SHOULD:

Remember children play rugby for their enjoyment not yours.

Acknowledge good individual and team performance from young players of all teams.

Respect match officials decisions. Remember these volunteers provide the opportunity for youngsters to play rugby.

Acknowledge effort and performance rather than the win at all costs ethic; never ridicule any player on any team and verbally encourage all players, irrespective of ability, in a positive way when supporting your team.

Never verbally abuse young players, match officials, other spectators or coaches. Such behaviour creates a negative environment for young players and presents an unacceptable example for them.

AS A SPECTATOR YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO:

Act as a positive role model to all young players, showing respect for your Club and for the game in your behaviour as a spectator.

Be familiar with, and abide by, the RFU Child Protection and Safety of Young Players guidance in relation to abuse of all kinds.

CHILD PROTECTION & SAFEGUARDING VULNERABLE PEOPLE

ALL ADULTS WORKING WITH CHILDREN AND YOUNG PLAYERS IN A RUGBY ENVIRONMENT MUST:

Respect the rights, dignity and worth of every young person with whom they work and treat them equally in the rugby context.

Place their physical and emotional well-being above all other considerations, including the development of performance.

Ensure the relationship that a rugby coach develops with them is based on mutual trust and respect.

Ensure that all activities are appropriate to the age, maturity, experience and ability of young players.

Encourage them to accept responsibility for their own behaviour and performance.

Clarify with the young players (and their parents/guardians) what is expected of them both on and off the rugby field and also what they are entitled to expect from the coach.

Work in partnership with others within the game (officials, doctors, physiotherapists, sports scientists) to ensure the well-being, safety and enjoyment of all young players.

Promote positive aspects of the sport such as fair play. Violations of the Laws of the Game, behaviour contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or relevant regulations and the use of prohibited techniques or substances must never be condoned.