Everyone who participates in Rugby Union is entitled to do so in an enjoyable and
safe environment. The Welsh Rugby Union Ltd has a moral and legal obligation to
ensure that, when given responsibility for children, coaches and volunteers it provides
them with the highest possible standard of care.

The Welsh Rugby Union Ltd is committed to devising and implementing policies so
that everyone in Rugby in Wales accepts their responsibilities to safeguard children
from harm and abuse. This means to follow procedures to protect children and report
any concerns about their welfare to appropriate authorities.

The aim of the policy is to promote good practice, providing children and young
people with appropriate safety/protection whilst in the care of the Member Clubs/
Affiliated Organisations and to allow staff and volunteers to make informed and
confident responses to specific child protection issues. A child is defined as a
person under the age of 18 (Children’s Act 1989)

Policy Statement

The Welsh Rugby Union Ltd is committed to the following:

•The welfare of the child is paramount

•All children, whatever their age, culture, ability, gender, language, racial origin,
religious belief and/or sexual identity should be able to participate in Rugby
Union in a fun and safe environment

•Taking all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination and
degrading treatment and to respect their rights, wishes and feelings

•All suspicions and allegations of poor practice or abuse will be taken seriously and
responded to swiftly and appropriately

•All involved in Rugby Union and who work with children, will be recruited with
regard to their suitability for that responsibility, and will be provided with
guidance and/or training in good practice and child protection procedures

•Working in partnership with parents and children is essential for the protection of
children

WRU CP –March 08