Parent and Carers

Rugby provides opportunities for enjoyment and achievement; it can develop qualities such as self esteem, leadership and teamwork, as well as physical benefits. Providing young people with a positive rugby experience means that they will be more likely to achieve their true potential.

Every young person has the right to have fun and to be safe and free from harm, whether training or playing for a local club or at a representative level. As a parent / legal guardian you should feel comfortable with the environment that your child is in and able to ask questions about the club, structure, people, policies and practices.

Questions to consider

Are the coaches qualified?

All coaches/leaders must hold an up-to-date WRU recognised Coaching/Leadership qualification which is appropriate to the level of activity being coached.

Do the coaches have the appropriate training?

All coaches/leaders working with young people are strongly advised to attend a scUK Safeguarding & Protecting Children workshop and hold a first aid certificate. Safeguarding training is also built in to their WRU coaching qualifications

Are the coaches and club personnel suitable to work with young people?

All coaches and volunteers who regularly cares for, trains, supervises or is in sole charge of young people should have had a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check through the WRU.

Concerns?

If you feel concerned or worried about your child and need some advice, you can contact the Club Safeguarding Officer and explain your concerns. The Club Safeguarding Officer will then speak with the WRU Safeguarding Unit, if appropriate. All concerns will be treated in the strictest confidence, with only the people who can help the situation becoming involved. The WRU reporting incidents section will provide you with additional information

If you are looking for guidance please see the web links for parents in the contacts section. These websites can provide parents and careers with information and support.

Always ensure that as a parent/Carer you:

• arrange for your child to be dropped off and picked up promptly from the club and matches
• contact the club if you are running late to collect your child
• adhere to the rules of the club
• adhere to the Codes of conduct within the club
• accept the guidance that coaches provide and referee decisions within matches
• use appropriate language at all times
• stay off the field during training and matches
• never force your child to participate

You can help your child become a strong competitor in a safe environment by:

• Emphasising and rewarding effort rather than outcome.
• Understanding that your child may need a break from sports occasionally.
• Encouraging and guiding your child, not forcing or pressuring them to compete.
• Emphasising the importance of having fun, learning new skills, and developing skills.
• Showing interest in their participation in sports, asking questions.
• Realising that your attitude and behaviours influences your child's performance.
  

Parents / Carers - Helpful Downloads

Keeping your child safe in sport
Guidance for Parents Leaflet
Helping keep your child safe in sport

www.childline.org.uk

ChildLine is the free, 24-hour helpline for children and young people in the UK. Children and young people can call on 0800 1111 about any problem, at any time - day or night