Safeguarding at OERFC

To this end our coaches and managers will strive to create and maintain an atmosphere in which young players can flourish as well as developing their skills and understanding of the game. We follow guidelines as set down by the RFU, the main points of which are described below.

Our Safeguarding Policy sets out guidelines which the Club will follow to ensure that young players develop their rugby skills in a safe and secure environment.

Abuse of children & young people can occur within many situations including sport. We will make every reasonable effort to safeguard the welfare of the players when they are in our charge. All people working with young people within the Club will be required to undertake a DBS check, and we will support any training needs to fulfil these aims.

• The Player's welfare is paramount
• All Players whatever their age, disability, gender, race or religious belief have the right to protection from abuse (both direct & indirect)
• All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately, where necessary liaising with the local Area Child Protection Services.

A Child Protection Officer, reporting to the Chair of The Minis, has been nominated in the Emanuel Lions Mini Rugby Club as the person in charge of implementing the Child Protection Policy. If any player, parent, guardian, coach or volunteer has any concerns about the behaviour of any individual associated with the Club they should contact the Head Coach / Manager for a particular age group or the Child Protection Officer. The complaint will be investigated as appropriate.

Team Managers, Chairman and Child Protection Officer have forms which they will record allegations of suspicious behaviour. There may be circumstances where allegations about poor practice rather than abuse in which case the "main" Club's existing disciplinary procedure may be used. Where there is any doubt advice will be sought from the Child Protection Officer, Social Services or the NSPCC (it should be noted that the Section and the RFU has many guidelines and procedures in place that describe what is considered to be good practice).

It is acknowledged that feelings generated by allegations that a player may be being abused will raise concerns amongst coaches and parents. However it is important that any concerns for the welfare of the player should be reported immediately. The Club will fully support and protect anyone who, in good faith, reports his or her concerns about the possible abuse of a player or other young person associated with the club.

If you have any concerns about this policy please do not hesitate to contact the Child Protection Officer or the Chair of the Emanuel Lions.