Roundhegians

Foreword

Roundhegians RFC is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in rugby, ensuring they are safe and have a positive experience. This policy aligns with the RFU’s Safeguarding Children Policy and applies to all staff, volunteers, parents, and participants.

Key Principles

• The welfare of the child is paramount.
• All children, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, have the right to protection from abuse.
• All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
• Everyone involved in the club has a duty to safeguard children and promote their welfare.
• The RFU Core Values — Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, and Sportsmanship — underpin this policy.

Roles and Responsibilities

Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO)

• First point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Ensures all safeguarding policies are implemented and followed.
• Liaises with the RFU Safeguarding Team, statutory agencies, and local safeguarding partners.

Coaches and Volunteers

• Must be familiar with this policy.
• Complete RFU-approved safeguarding training and DBS checks.
• Promote good safeguarding practices.

Parents and Carers

• Work in partnership with the club to ensure children’s safety.
• Raise concerns promptly with the CSO or club officials.

Club Management

• Ensure safeguarding is a standing agenda item at club meetings.
• Oversee recruitment processes to include safeguarding checks and training.

Recognizing and Responding to Abuse

Forms of abuse:

• Physical abuse – non-accidental physical injury.
• Emotional abuse – persistent emotional ill-treatment.
• Sexual abuse – forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities.
• Neglect – persistent failure to meet a child’s basic physical and/or psychological needs.

Response Guidance:

• Stay calm and listen.
• Reassure the child and avoid questioning.
• Record the concern using the RFU Incident Reporting Form.
• Refer immediately to the CSO.

Incident Reporting

• All concerns must be reported to the CSO.
• The CSO will assess and escalate to statutory agencies or the RFU Safeguarding Team if necessary.
• The RFU’s safeguarding team and the NSPCC (0808 800 5000) are available for support.

Safe Recruitment and Training

• All volunteers and coaches must undergo appropriate vetting (including DBS checks).
• Induction to include safeguarding responsibilities.
• Mandatory RFU safeguarding training and refresher every 3 years.
• Signed Code of Conduct for all roles working with children.

Promoting Good Practice

• Avoid lone working with children. Always have another adult present.
• Keep sessions open and observable.
• Gain written parental consent for all activities.
• Communicate openly with parents about club practices.

Online Safety and Social Media

• No direct one-to-one contact between coaches and children via personal social media or messaging.
• Use official club channels for communication.
• Share photos/videos only with written parental consent and for appropriate purposes.
  
  

Anti-Bullying Policy

• Bullying of any kind is not tolerated.
• Procedures are in place to:
• Encourage reporting.
• Investigate concerns promptly.
• Provide support for both the victim and the perpetrator.
• Promote an inclusive and respectful club environment.

Photography and Video Policy

• Prior consent must be obtained from parents/guardians.
• Images will only be used for legitimate club purposes.
• Storage and usage must be in line with data protection guidance.
• No identifying information (e.g., names) to accompany images.

Monitoring and Review

• This policy is reviewed annually or upon updates to RFU safeguarding requirements.
• Member and parent feedback is encouraged and will be considered in revisions.

Approved By:

Name: Mark Moran

Role: Club Chairperson

Date: 13/01/2025