At Rugby St. Andrews RFC, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and protection of all children who participate in rugby at our club. The welfare of every child is our top priority, and we acknowledge our responsibility to safeguard them from any harm.

Our Safeguarding Measures:

Enhanced DBS Checks: All Coaches and Staff working with children at our club have undergone Enhanced DBS Checks to ensure their suitability to work with young individuals.
'Play It Safe' Training: Our Coaches and Staff have attended the RFU's 'Play It Safe' safeguarding training, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to create a safe environment for our young players.
Adherence to RFU Safeguarding Policy: We confirm that Rugby St. Andrews RFC adheres to the Rugby Football Union's Safeguarding Policy, including its procedures, practices, and guidelines. We endorse and adopt the Policy Statement contained in the document and any successor policy.

Defining a Child: A child is defined as anyone under the age of 18 engaged in any rugby union activity. Even if a 17-year-old male player is participating in the adult game, we take every reasonable precaution to protect his safety and well-being, obtaining appropriate consent where necessary.

Key Principles of Our Safeguarding Policy:

Child's Welfare: The welfare of the child is paramount to any other considerations.
Protection for All: Regardless of age, gender, ability, disability, race, faith, culture, size, shape, language, or sexual identity, all participants have the right to protection from abuse or harm.
Swift Response: All allegations or suspicions of abuse, neglect, harm, and poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly, fairly, and appropriately.
Partnership: Working in partnership with other organizations, statutory agencies, parents, carers, children, and young people is crucial for the welfare of children.
Safe Environment: Children have the right to expect support and personal and social development in a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment.

Compliance with the RFU Code of Rugby and Core Values: As a family-focused club, Rugby St. Andrews RFC upholds the Core Values of Rugby Union: Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, and Sportsmanship. We expect all players, coaches, parents, spectators, and volunteers to uphold these values and create a welcoming and nurturing atmosphere.

Safeguarding Officer: Our club's Safeguarding Officer is Kirsty Telford. If you have any questions or concerns regarding Safeguarding, you can confidently contact Kirsty at safeguarding-officer@standrewsrfc.co.uk, or for more urgent concerns, please use 07748 387 383.

Reporting Concerns: Any concerns regarding abuse or safeguarding issues should be reported to the club's Safeguarding Officer. In her absence, the Club Safeguarding Manager or RFU Safeguarding Team should be informed at the earliest opportunity. Reports must be made in writing using the RFU Initial Issue/Concern Reporting Form found at englandrugby.com/safeguarding, along with the contact details for all members of the Safeguarding Team.

At Rugby St. Andrews RFC, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for every child under our care. Together, let us nurture the next generation of rugby players with passion, integrity, and respect.

Safeguarding Policy Last Updated: 21-July-2023