1. Keeping Children and Adults Safe
   1. Safeguarding is a matter taken very seriously by Devon Rugby Referees’ Society and all its members. We will use the RFU Safeguarding policy as the framework that we work within
   2. The referee society understand that when officiating rugby where children are playing we will look to ensure that we provide a safe, secure and enjoyable environment, and adhere to the principles laid out in section 7 of the Age Grade Rugby Code of Practice and RFU Regulation 21
   3. Devon Rugby Referees’ Society has a dedicated Safeguarding Officer, any concerns or questions please contact them on the contact e-mail address safeguarding@devonrrs.co.uk
   4. To endeavor to ensure we deliver this safe environment for both young players and young match officials to enjoy their rugby experience we will undertake the following activities and actions:
      1. We will, wherever practicable, appoint a DBS checked referee to U18 matches.
      2. Devon Rugby Referees’ Society will run training sessions for its members and CMODs,in line with RFU Best Practice
      3. Safeguarding will be a standing item on the agenda of all executive meetings
      4. Under 18 Match Officials will only be managed and mentored by members whom have a current DBS and have undertaken the “Play it Safe” course
      5. Under 18 Match Officials will have a Chaperone and their parent/guardian appointed to all of their Appointments
      6. Under 18 Match Officials will receive a presentation on what Devon Rugby Referees’ Society will do to support them to be safeguarded themselves, we will also invite their parents/guardians.
      7. Videoing of Referees’ for Training/Development is not a common occurrence however

         If the society wishes to video an U18 Game – they must have permission from BOTH clubs’

         If the society wishes to video an U18 Referee – they must have parental permission

      8. Review the policy annually and update as required
2. Contact Numbers

   NSPCC 24 hour Freephone: 0808 800 5000

   RFU Safeguarding Line (an unmanned 24 hour answerphone service): 0208 831 6655

   Devon Referee Society Safeguarding Officer: Graeme Gillard safeguarding@devonrrs.co.uk

   RFRU Safeguarding Manager: Link to RFRU website

3. Resources to be consulted for up to date safeguarding advice and recommendations

   England Rugby – Safeguarding Children

   England Rugby – Safeguarding Adults

   England Rugby – Sharing Concerns and Reporting an issue

   The Child Protection In Sport Unit (CSPU) - Keeping Children Safe in Sport

   NSPCC – What to do if you suspect abuse or are concerned about the welfare of a child

4. Child Protection Policy
   1. Devon Rugby Referees’ Society have adopted the RFU’s Safeguarding Policy
      1. When refereeing young players match officials should:

         Recognize the importance of fun and enjoyment when officiating young players

         Appreciate the needs of the players

         Be a positive role model

         Recognize that safety is paramount

         Provide positive verbal feedback during games

         Explain decisions – most young players are still learning

         Not tolerate verbal abuse

5. Match Officials MUST NOT

   Change in the same area as young players or Young Match Officials

   Shower with young players or Young Match Officials – agree with the coaches a timetable

   Be alone with young players or Young Match Officials at any time – if a young player or Young Match Officials comes into the dressing room ensure another adult is present

   Unless in an emergency, administer first aid

   Check studs without the coach being present

   Allow a young player to continue playing if you have doubts about their fitness to do so

   Tolerate bad language from young players

   Use Foul Language

   Overtly criticize young players or use language which may cause the player to lose confidence or self esteem

   Make sexually explicit remarks to young players even in fun

   Engage in any inappropriate contact with young players

   Give a lift to a player or Young Match Officials unless there are other young people or adults in the car and the parents are aware and informed

   Take a young player or Young Match Officials to your home

6. Match Officials MUST ALWAYS
   1. Report, in writing, to the Club or CB Safeguarding Officer and/or the RFU Safeguarding Team, behaviors by adults which you feel contravenes the RFU Safeguarding Policy

      Verbal bullying by coaches/parents/spectators

      Physical abuse by coaches/parents/spectators

      Inappropriate or aggressive contact by an adult to a young person

      Verbal abuse directed at you by young people or adults

REMEMBER "The Welfare of all young people is paramount"