Code of Conduct

Mon 13 Jan 2025 21:19

CODE OF CONDUCT

Roundhegians RFC

Updated January 2025

CONTENTS

  1. Introduction
  2. The Code
  3. Rights of Individuals
  4. Conduct
  5. Behaviour We Encourage at the Club
  6. Unacceptable Behaviour at the Club
  7. Who the Code Applies To
  8. Reporting and Disciplinary Action
  9. Relevant Policies

1. Introduction

At Roundhegians RFC, we operate in line with the core values: Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, and Sportsmanship. We are committed to fostering a culture that embodies these values, ensuring a safe environment free from abuse, discrimination, and harm, where everyone feels safe and supported.

We aim to create an inclusive environment where all participants feel empowered to raise concerns about unacceptable practices or behaviour. This Code of Conduct, along with our policies and procedures, provides a framework for creating respectful, safe, and enjoyable experiences for all.

Everyone involved in rugby at Roundhegians RFC—whether as a player, coach, parent, spectator, or volunteer—is expected to uphold these values at all times.

2. The Code

This Code has been adopted by Roundhegians RFC (referred to as "the Club") to ensure fair and appropriate conduct in the best interests of everyone, especially children and young people. It sets out behavioural standards expected of members and participants and forms part of our approach to addressing complaints of poor conduct.

This Code is integral to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment and is used to guide both formal and informal disciplinary processes.

3. Rights of Individuals

Everyone participating in activities at Roundhegians RFC has the right:

  1. To participate safely, free from abuse or harm.
  2. To be treated with respect and dignity at all times.
  3. To engage in activities voluntarily, without pressure.
  4. To experience fair treatment in line with the Core Values.
  5. To be free from discrimination based on age, disability, sex, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy.
  6. To challenge poor conduct and discrimination.
  7. To raise concerns or complaints and have them addressed seriously.

4. Conduct

Respectful conduct is essential to fostering a safe, inclusive culture where children and adults can thrive in rugby. Everyone at Roundhegians RFC is expected to demonstrate the Core Values on and off the pitch, including during online interactions and social media activity.

Good conduct is expected on match days, in training, and during any Club activity.

5. Behaviour We Encourage at the Club

Members and participants are expected to:

Treatment of Others:

  • Treat everyone—officials, spectators, coaches, and players—with respect and dignity.
  • Avoid discrimination or preferential treatment.
  • Be gracious in both victory and defeat.
  • Create a welcoming atmosphere for all, regardless of age or background.
  • Provide positive, constructive feedback and avoid negative criticism.
  • Accept responsibility for their actions and behaviour.

Challenging and Reporting:

  • Challenge and report abusive, threatening, or intimidating behaviour.
  • Support a positive, welcoming environment and act as role models.
  • Discourage cheating, unsportsmanlike behaviour, or manipulation of competition.
  • Foster an environment that prioritizes skill development, enjoyment, and teamwork.

Working with Children and Adults at Risk:

  • Be friendly, professional, and positive role models.
  • Ensure Club participants understand safeguarding responsibilities.
  • Promote enjoyment and skill development over competition.
  • Familiarize themselves with Club rules and policies.

6. Unacceptable Behaviour at the Club

Participants must never:

Treatment of Others:

  • Engage in abusive, threatening, or bullying behaviour.
  • Use inappropriate language or actions to intimidate or harm others.
  • Challenge match officials' decisions or enter the field without authorization.
  • Use physical force or punishment.
  • Act in ways that could bring the Club or RFU into disrepute.

Challenging and Reporting:

  • Silence or intimidate those wishing to raise safeguarding concerns.

Working with Children and Adults at Risk:

  • Ignore safeguarding concerns or inappropriate behaviour among children.
  • Leave children unsupervised during Club activities.
  • Use their position to form inappropriate relationships with children or adults at risk.

7. Who the Code Applies To

This Code applies to everyone involved in the Club, including:

  • Paid or unpaid role holders.
  • Parents or guardians supervising children.
  • Members, spectators, and visitors.
  • Participants in Club activities, whether on Club premises or elsewhere.

8. Reporting and Disciplinary Action

  • Report concerns to the Club Safeguarding Officer (safeguarding@roundhegians.com), Disciplinary Officer, or Committee.
  • Breaches may result in disciplinary action following Club and RFU regulations.
  • Serious misconduct may be escalated to the RFU or Constituent Body.

For RFU concerns, email speakup@rfu.com or visit the RFU Speak Up page.

9. Relevant Policies

This Code should be read alongside:

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