Big Rig Rugby Child Protection Policy

Introduction

Big Rig Rugby is committed to creating and maintaining an environment where children and young people feel safe, valued, and respected. We recognize that the safety and well-being of children involved in rugby is paramount, and we strive to ensure all activities conducted by Big Rig Rugby adhere to the highest standards of child protection. This Child Protection Policy aligns with current Scottish Government legislation, the Scottish Rugby Child Protection Policy, and best practices for safeguarding children and young people in sport.

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Safeguard the well-being and rights of children and young people involved in Big Rig Rugby activities.

• Promote a culture where children’s safety and welfare are a priority.

• Provide clear guidance on procedures for reporting concerns and incidents of child protection.

• Set out the responsibilities of staff, coaches, volunteers, and parents in safeguarding children.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, coaches, volunteers, and members of Big Rig Rugby.

• Any individuals working or volunteering on behalf of Big Rig Rugby, including contractors and affiliates.

• All rugby-related activities conducted under Big Rig Rugby, including training sessions, matches, tournaments, and other events.

3. Definitions

• Child: A person under the age of 18 years, as per the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

• Abuse: Includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect.

• Neglect: The failure to provide adequate care, support, and protection, resulting in harm to a child.

4. Legal Framework

This policy complies with the following Scottish Government and legal frameworks:

• The Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014.

• The Children's Hearings (Scotland) Act 2011.

• The Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) (Scotland) Act 2007.

• The Scottish Rugby Child Protection Policy.

• The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

5. Code of Conduct for Adults Working with Children

All staff, volunteers, and coaches at Big Rig Rugby must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Respect for Children: Always treat children with dignity and respect.

• Professional Boundaries: Maintain appropriate and professional relationships with children at all times.

• Safe Environment: Ensure that all rugby activities are conducted in a safe and supportive environment.

• Appropriate Supervision: Always ensure that children are adequately supervised, with appropriate ratios of adults to children.

• Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of children’s personal information unless disclosure is required to protect the child or as mandated by law.

6. Recognizing Abuse

Everyone involved in rugby at Big Rig Rugby must be able to recognize signs of potential abuse, which can include:

• Physical Abuse: Unexplained bruises, fractures, or injuries, or a history of frequent hospital visits.

• Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate sexual behavior or knowledge beyond the child's age, physical signs of sexual abuse, or verbal disclosures.

• Emotional Abuse: Fearfulness, withdrawal, extreme behavior changes, anxiety, or depression.

• Neglect: Inconsistent attendance, poor hygiene, hunger, or a lack of appropriate clothing.

If any of these signs are observed or suspected, individuals must take immediate action by following the reporting procedures outlined below.

7. Reporting Child Protection Concerns

Big Rig Rugby has a clear and transparent reporting procedure for any concerns related to child protection:

• Step 1: Report to Designated Child Protection Officer (CPO): Any concerns or disclosures regarding child protection should be reported immediately to the Designated Child Protection Officer (CPO). If the concern is about the CPO, the report should be made to another senior individual or the relevant authorities.

• Step 2: Report to Relevant Authorities: If the concern involves immediate danger or risk to a child, it should be reported to the police or social services immediately.

• Step 3: Support for the Child: Ensure that the child is supported and cared for appropriately while the concern is being addressed. Confidentiality should be maintained throughout the process.

Contact Information for CPO:

• Name: [CPO Name]

• Email: [CPO Email]

• Phone: [CPO Phone Number]

8. Recruitment and Selection

Big Rig Rugby ensures that all individuals working with children go through a thorough recruitment and selection process that includes:

• Background Checks: All staff, coaches, and volunteers must undergo enhanced PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) checks before being allowed to work with children. This ensures that individuals with a history of criminal offenses, particularly those related to children, are not allowed to work with vulnerable groups.

• Reference Checks: References from previous employers or organizations working with children will be obtained for all individuals involved in child-facing roles.

• Interviews: Applicants will be interviewed and evaluated for their suitability to work with children.

9. Training and Awareness

Big Rig Rugby is committed to providing ongoing child protection training for all staff, coaches, and volunteers. This training will cover:

• Recognizing the signs of abuse and neglect.

• The reporting and referral process for child protection concerns.

• Safe practices in coaching, including appropriate physical contact.

• Promoting child-centered, inclusive, and non-discriminatory environments.

Training will be refreshed at regular intervals to ensure all staff are up-to-date with the latest best practices in safeguarding.

10. Safe Travel and Accommodation

When children are traveling to away games, tournaments, or events:

• Travel and accommodation arrangements: Parents or guardians will be informed about travel and accommodation details well in advance. Parental consent will be obtained before travel.

• Supervision: Children will be supervised by qualified and background-checked staff members at all times during travel and while staying in accommodation.

• Communication: Clear channels of communication will be maintained between staff, children, and parents or guardians during travel.

11. Disciplinary Action

Any individual found to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include:

• Suspension or termination of their position with Big Rig Rugby.

• Referral to the relevant authorities if criminal behavior is suspected.

• Banning from attending or participating in Big Rig Rugby activities.

12. Monitoring and Review

Big Rig Rugby will review this policy annually to ensure it remains in line with current legislation and best practices. The policy will also be reviewed in light of any incidents or feedback from stakeholders, including children, parents, coaches, and volunteers.

13. Conclusion

The protection of children is at the heart of Big Rig Rugby’s operations. By ensuring that all rugby activities are safe and secure, we will provide an environment where young people can enjoy the sport, reach their full potential, and feel valued and respected.

Signed by:

Stuart Corsar. Director of Rugby
6/3/2025