At Henley Rugby Club we believe that taking part in sport should be a positive and enjoyable part of children's lives
We want to make sure that children are protected and kept safe from physical, sexual and emotional harm while they are with the Club's coaches, helpers and other volunteers.
To do this we have these aims:
1. All coaches will go on a Foundation Coaching Rugby Union Course before they begin working with children.
2. All coaches and other volunteers will have a job description.
3. All coaches will be qualified to Level 1 before they are allowed to be Head Coach of an age group.
4. The Club will encourage and help coaches stay up-to-date with rugby, coaching and child protection issues. Each lead Coach will attend and NCF Coach Protection Workshop.
5. All coaches will be given a copy of the Club's Code of Conduct for Coaches and be expected to keep to it at all times.
6. We will keep written records of attendance, parental consent and accidents.
7. We will provide written Health and Safety policy covering fire procedures, telephone access and first aid and emergency procedures.
8. We will provide coaches and parents with a written procedure for dealing with accusations or suspicions of child abuse.
9. As a club, we will promote 'fair play' and always play within the spirit of the laws and the letter of the continuum.
10. We will identify a person whose role it is to deal with any concerns about physical, sexual or emotional abuse within the club.
The principle of child welfare in Henley Rugby club is based on a clear understanding of Child Protection Guidelines laid down in both statue and the RFU. It is our aim to interpret these with openness, sensitivity and responsibility; however acting upon these with the practical nature of Child rugby.
Our principles are as follows:-
1. Anyone under the age of 18 is considered to be a child of young person of the purpose of this document.
2. The welfare of children and young people is paramount and is seen as the foundation of the success of the club
3. All children and young people, regardless of age, gender, ability, race, religion, ethnic origin, nationality, social status or sexual orientation should be able to enjoy the game in an environment safe from abuse of any kind.
4. It is the responsibility of all coaches and club representatives to monitor whether abuse has taken place but it is everyone's responsibility within Henley Rugby Club to report concerns to the Year Group head, Chairman or the Child Protection Officer
5. All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately as per RFU/RFUW Policy and Procedures
6. Working in partnership with parents/carers is essential for the protection of young people.
7. Henley Rugby Club recognises the roles and responsibilities of statutory agencies in relation to safeguarding children/young people and promoting their welfare, and is fully committed to complying with the procedures of the Local Safeguarding Children's Boards.
8. The RFU/RFUW Policy and Procedures for the Welfare of Young People is mandatory. These are based on the RFU "The Welfare of Young People in Rugby Union Guidance" manual 2006.
9. Henley Rugby Club will maintain the appointment of a Welfare Officer to ensure that the appropriate procedures are followed. Click to download a PDF version