Safeguarding

Safeguarding at Didcot RUFC

“Rugby Union is based on the values of Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship—and above all, the safety of our players.”

Didcot RUFC is committed to ensuring that all children and vulnerable adults participating in rugby have a safe and positive experience.

Our local club policy is currently in its final draft stage and awaiting formal committee ratification. In the interim, Didcot RUFC strictly adheres to the national RFU Safeguarding Policy to ensure the highest standards of care.

We also follow the RFU Age Grade Rugby framework, ensuring that all training, contact, and competition are appropriate to each child’s stage of development.

🛡️ Your Safeguarding Lead

If you have any concerns regarding the welfare of a child or the conduct of an adult, please contact our Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO) immediately.

Name: Tim Coates

Phone: 07784 568832

Note: Information shared will be handled sensitively but may be shared with the RFU or relevant authorities if required for the safety of a child.

📣 How to Report a Concern

If you are worried about a child, or about the behaviour of an adult at the club, please take action immediately:

  • Contact our Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO) using the details above.
  • If you cannot reach the CSO, contact the RFU Safeguarding Team (24/7): 0208 831 6655.
  • You can also contact the NSPCC: 0808 800 5000.
  • If a child is at immediate risk, call 999.

📋 Our Current Standards

While our local policy documents are being finalised, Didcot RUFC maintains active compliance across all mandatory RFU safeguarding and medical requirements.

All individuals who meet the RFU definition of working with children are either fully DBS‑checked or are actively progressing through the DBS process in line with RFU safer recruitment requirements.

✔️ Safer Recruitment

We operate a robust recruitment process where DBS and E-Safeguarding compliance is strictly monitored.

🎓 Training

20 of our volunteers have completed the 'Play It Safe' course this season.

🩹 RugbySafe & Concussion

Our dedicated RugbySafe lead monitors medical compliance and supports HEADCASE awareness.

📜 Published Policies

Our Club Code of Conduct and Social Media Policy are live and applicable to all.

Safe Working Principles

In line with the RFU Safeguarding Children Policy, we promote the following standards:

We Aim To:

  • Focus on the wellbeing of the child as the first priority.
  • Maintain vigilance: As we operate on public grounds, we must remain aware of shared access by the general public.
  • Work in an open environment, avoiding unobserved 1-on-1 situations.
  • Ensure Changing Rooms are used appropriately with adults and children separated.

We Avoid:

  • Direct 1-to-1 contact away from the pitch, including private messaging.
  • Letting any concern go unnoticed—always notify the CSO.
  • Leaving safeguarding to "someone else"; we encourage proactive safeguarding.
  • Photography unless compliant with GMS permissions and club policy.

External Support & Advice

NSPCC

📞 0808 800 5000

NSPCC Website →

Childline

📞 0800 1111

Childline Website →

RFU Safeguarding

📞 0208 831 6655

RFU Safeguarding Hub →

Full Policy Document (Draft)

This is the final draft for committee approval on 1st April 2026. You can read it below or download it for your records.

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