Rugby union is a powerful and positive influence. Enjoyment goes hand in hand with achievement and Edenbridge RFC (ERFC) believes that for the game to thrive we must look after the children and young people who play rugby. Their welfare and wellbeing is fundamental. We all want the rugby environment to be a safe and happy one.

Rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship are attributes that we all want to impart. Our hope is that everyone children meet within our sport can act as a positive role model. As children develop qualities and skills like confidence, commitment and concern for others they become potential leaders for the future.

It is essential that we provide them with a positive experience and give them the opportunity to achieve their true potential. We have a duty to ensure that safeguarding children is prioritised and that each child’s rugby experience is as good as we can possibly make it.

Safeguarding is a proactive concept based around promoting the child’s welfare in every way. It means protecting children and young people from abuse and neglect but stretches much further to include all that we can do to ensure their appropriate development and to maximise life opportunities. Simply, safeguarding is about all the things we do to create child centred rugby and to prevent problems arising.

Edenbridge RFC greatly appreciates the army of volunteers who give up their time to organise mini and youth rugby and strive to provide the highest standards of care for children in a safe and enjoyable environment. If you are involved in rugby in any capacity, whether as a player, coach, parent, volunteer or teacher, I urge you to adopt this safeguarding policy to help provide a positive experience for our young people. It is the responsibility of each and every one of us to ensure that children are experiencing the highest quality of experience possible.