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SECTION 8 - LEVELS OF AWARENESS 

It is understandable that people who are well-motivated, loving and caring individuals with a deep commitment to their sport, are reluctant to believe that children may be suffering harm in the rugby environment or at home. 

It may be difficult to accept that children could be at risk because of the way the organisation is being run and the attitudes of those involved.

Levels of awareness need to be raised without creating an atmosphere of anxiety or suspicion.

However, a basic principle should be that: 

If you become aware of anything which causes you to feel uncomfortable, you should talk to the Club/CB Welfare Officer about it. 

This means being aware of the attitudes of staff, coaches and volunteers and of the interactions between them and the children, and with each other. Certain modes of behaviour by an individual or individuals may be excused by the comments:

“He/she has always behaved like that”

or

“We’ve come to expect that sort of behaviour and attitude from X club, they are the same every year”

If the behaviour is contrary to the club or RFU/RFUW’s Welfare Policy and Procedures, meaning that young people are potentially at risk, then action MUST be taken.

Adults must also be alert to any unusual incidents or activities which take place where staff, coaches or volunteers are putting themselves in a vulnerable position.