Safeguarding

Protection of the young and vunerable in the rugby community

Through the implementation of a policy for Safeguarding of Young People in Rugby and the support of its coaches and volunteers, the RFU/RFUW will maintain the professionalism and safeguards of good practice that are associated with the game.

The policy outlines the following key areas:

see http://clubs.rfu.com/Clubs/portals/RUSafe

• It recognises the responsibility of all those involved in rugby union (professional and volunteers) to safeguard and promote the interests and well being of the children and young players with whom they are working. It provides a framework on the recruitment, selection, suitability and deployment of individuals working with young people

• It emphasises the value of working closely in partnership with other coaches, parents, professionals and volunteers to protect children and young players from harm and discrimination.

• It acknowledges that abuse does take place in sport and that by raising awareness and understanding of the main forms of abuse, and establishing communication and reporting procedures if abuse is suspected, will further safeguard the young players, coaches and all others working within the game.

All clubs with Junior players (U18), should have the following minimum procedures in place.

• A named Safeguarding Officer who is easily contactable;
• CRB checks must be carried out on all adults who have regular contact with Junior players;
• A Safeguarding Policy and related procedures adopted and displayed in the club.

The role of the CB Safeguarding Manager includes the following:

• To offer assistance to Club Safeguarding Officers.
• Support clubs to produce a Safeguarding Policy.
• Monitor implementation of Safeguarding Policies and procedures within the CB.
• To ensure the CRB and VBS disclosure processes are implemented within the CB.
• Establish contact details for local Social Services, Police and Area Child Protection Committees.
• Have a formal role on relevant committees within the CB.
• To ensure all reported cases are reported to the RFU and to advise clubs on the management of reported cases after consultation with the RFU.

The North Midlands Safeguarding Manager is: -
Judith Phelps.
118 Haygate Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire. TF1 2BU.
Tel: 01952 247953   Mobile: 07773 326439
e-mail: phelpsfam2@btinternet.com

Judith is prepared to listen if you have any safeguarding issues you are concerned about. However if she cannot be contacted and you have an immediate concern relating to the welfare of a young person please phone Ann Hutchins on 020 8831 7479 or the RFU Safeguarding Helpline on 0208 831 6655.  Alternatively you can email: annhutchins@rfu.com or rmg@therfu.com

Please remember that we have to consider that the ‘welfare of the child is paramount’. However, this also brings the added benefit of protecting the interests of all others within the game of rugby.

Judith Phelps