Safeguarding at Tondu RFC
As an affiliated club of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), Tondu RFC is required to follow the WRU’s safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure that children and young people participate in rugby in a safe and positive environment.
WRU Safeguarding Policy
The WRU states that the welfare of children and adults at risk is paramount. Its safeguarding framework is designed to protect children from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and harm while promoting their wellbeing and enjoyment of rugby.
Key principles of the WRU safeguarding policy include:
- Providing safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environments for all participants.
- Ensuring all clubs adopt WRU safeguarding procedures.
- Requiring safeguarding training and awareness for relevant staff and volunteers.
- Having clear reporting procedures for safeguarding concerns.
- Ensuring concerns are investigated appropriately and referred to statutory agencies when necessary.
- Promoting a culture where everyone shares responsibility for safeguarding.
The WRU also provides guidance documents for coaches, safeguarding officers, parents, and volunteers, together with codes of conduct and operational safeguarding guidance.
How Tondu RFC Keeps Children Safe
As a WRU-affiliated club, Tondu RFC helps keep children safe by implementing WRU safeguarding requirements, including:
- Appointing a Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO)
The CSO acts as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns and works with coaches, volunteers, parents, and players to promote a safeguarding culture. - Using Trained and Vetted Volunteers
Coaches and volunteers who work with children are expected to complete appropriate safeguarding training and undergo relevant vetting checks, including DBS checks where required. - Following Safe Recruitment Procedures
The club follows WRU guidance to ensure that adults working with children are suitable for their roles. - Providing Clear Reporting Processes
Any concerns about a child’s welfare can be reported to the Club Safeguarding Officer and, where necessary, to the WRU Safeguarding Team, Social Services, or the Police. Immediate risks should be reported to emergency services. - Promoting Positive Behaviour
Coaches and volunteers are expected to model appropriate behaviour and follow WRU codes of conduct to create a respectful and supportive environment for young players. - Listening to and Supporting Children
The WRU safeguarding approach emphasises recognising concerns, reassuring children, recording information appropriately, and reporting concerns through the correct channels (the “Six R’s” approach).
Tondu RFC
Founded 1880