Safeguarding Everyone Policy
Dunbar RFC is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its members. We believe that everyone has the right to participate in rugby in an enjoyable and safe environment, free from abuse, discrimination or harm. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
Purpose and Scope
This policy outlines Dunbar RFC’s commitment to protecting the welfare of all participants, including children, young people and adults at risk. It aligns with Scottish Rugby Union (SRU)’s ‘Safeguarding Everyone Policy’ https://scottishrugby.org/clubs-and-schools/safeguarding-3/ and Scottish legislation such as the Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014 and the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007.
This policy applies to all club members, volunteers, employees, players, parents, carers and visitors participating in any activity under the name of Dunbar RFC, whether at the club, during travel or at away fixtures.
Principles
• The safety and wellbeing of children and adults at risk is always the top priority.
• Everyone has the right to be treated with respect, dignity and fairness.
• Safeguarding applies equally to all, regardless of age, ability, race, gender, religion, or background.
• Concerns about welfare, abuse or poor practice must be reported immediately.
• All suspicions and reports of abuse will be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.
• The club promotes inclusion, empowerment and equality across all activities.
Responsibilities
Dunbar RFC will:
• Appoint a trained Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO) as the main contact for all child and adult protection concerns.
• Ensure all volunteers and staff working with children or adults at risk are PVG checked and undertake safeguarding training.
• Provide safe environments through planning, supervision and risk assessments.
• Maintain confidential and accurate safeguarding records.
• Promote good practice and safe recruitment in line with SRU guidance.
The Club Safeguarding Officer will:
• Be the main point of contact for all safeguarding concerns.
• Report concerns to Scottish Rugby’s Safeguarding Team within 24 hours.
• Promote awareness and support across the club.
• Keep safeguarding information secure and confidential.
All Members, Coaches and Volunteers must:
• Report any concern about a child or adult at risk immediately.
• Treat everyone fairly and respectfully.
• Complete safeguarding training as appropriate.
• Follow the club’s Codes of Conduct and this policy.
Recognising and Responding to Concerns
Abuse or harm can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, bullying or discriminatory behaviour. Adults at risk may also experience financial, psychological or self-neglect-related harm. It is not your role to investigate, but to recognise and report concerns promptly.
Reporting Procedures
If you are concerned about someone’s safety or wellbeing:
1. Contact the Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO) immediately.
2. If the CSO is unavailable or implicated, contact Scottish Rugby’s Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@sru.org.uk.
3. In cases of immediate danger, contact Police Scotland (999) or local Social Work Services.
All concerns will be treated seriously and dealt with in accordance with SRU procedures and confidentiality requirements.
External Contacts
• Scottish Rugby Safeguarding Team – safeguarding@sru.org.uk
• Children 1st – 0131 446 2300
• NSPCC – 0808 800 5000
• Ann Craft Trust (Adults at Risk) – 0115 951 5400
• Police Scotland – 101 (non-emergency) / 999 (emergency)
Training and Awareness
All coaches, volunteers and officials working directly with children or adults at risk must complete safeguarding training provided or approved by Scottish Rugby. Dunbar RFC promotes a culture where safeguarding is embedded in every activity, ensuring everyone knows how to identify and report concerns.
Online Safety and Social Media
Dunbar RFC recognises the importance of protecting children and adults at risk from online harm. Members must use social media and digital communication responsibly and in accordance with SRU’s Online Safety and social media Policy.
Whistleblowing
Any individual can raise concerns about suspected wrongdoing or safeguarding failures without fear of retaliation. Concerns may be raised confidentially with the Club Safeguarding Officer or directly to Scottish Rugby via https://scottishrugby.org/clubs-and-schools/clubs-and-schools/tell-us/
Review
This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are significant changes in legislation, guidance, or following a safeguarding incident. Updates will be approved by the Dunbar RFC Committee and shared with all members.
Approved by Dunbar RFC Committee:
Date: ________3rd November 2025_______
Club Safeguarding Officer: Elaine Maxwell
07812769527
cpodunbarrfc@gmail.com