CHILD PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENT

This Policy clearly establishes East Retford RUFC’s position, role and responsibilities with regard to child protection and, together with the RFU’s Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures, clarifies what is expected from every individual involved with the Club.

·                     The Club is committed to ensuring that children (including young people under the age of 18) are protected and kept safe from harm whilst they are taking any part in any activity at the Club.

·                     The Club will do this by implementing the Inter-Agency Guidance on the Assessment of Children in Need and the local area Child Protection Procedures (2001) that cover both Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire as a whole. These procedures underpin the Child Protection Policy. They also reflect the Government guidance provided in "Working Together to Safeguard Children" (1999) and "Assessing Children in Need and their Families" (2000).

·                     The Club acknowledges that children and young people have a right to be treated with respect and for their concerns to be listened to and acted upon.

·                     The Club will put in place clear procedures for children and young people, parents, staff and volunteers to be able to voice their concerns if they feel unsure or unhappy about a matter concerning a child. This will include concerns about abuse within a child’s family as well as concerns or allegations about staff or volunteers.

·                     The Club will ensure that its staff and volunteers are carefully selected, trained and supervised. All persons having direct responsibility for children and young people will be subject to a Criminal Records Bureau check. Whilst awaiting clearance a self-declaration form will need to be completed.

·                     The Club will ensure that any Club members or volunteers working with children and young people are aware of and adhere to East Retford RUFC's Code of Conduct for Club Officials, Coaches & Volunteers.

·                     The Club has appointed a Club Welfare Officer who is responsible for dealing with allegations or suspicions of abuse:

            David O’Connor          01777 817150 (Home)

                                                01709 861663 (Work)

                                                07879 474867 (Mobile)

Prepared by   

David O’Connor                                  September 2006

Club Welfare Officer