Safeguarding

1. Commitment to Safeguarding

Telford Raiders Rugby League Club is dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of every child, young person, and vulnerable adult entrusted to our care. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for all members, ensuring their well-being remains our top priority.

A child or young person is defined as anyone under the age of 18 involved in club activities. A vulnerable adult is someone who may be unable to care for or protect themselves from harm or exploitation.

Telford Raiders subscribes to the RFL Safeguarding Policy (latest revision, 2024) and fully supports the policy statement contained within it.

2. Key Principles

The guiding principles of the RFL Safeguarding Policy are:

  • The welfare of the child, young person, or vulnerable adult is always paramount.
  • Every individual, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, social background, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic, has the right to protection from abuse.
  • All concerns, suspicions, and allegations of abuse or poor practice will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

3. Responsibility of the Club and Its Members

Telford Raiders believes every child, young person, and vulnerable adult involved in rugby league should enjoy the sport in a safe and secure environment. All adults within the club, whether in a voluntary or paid role, have a responsibility to protect them from harm, including:

  • Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
  • Neglect or bullying
  • Poor practice within the sport

The RFL Safeguarding Policy and regulations apply to all individuals within the sport, including volunteers, match officials, helpers, coaches, club officials, and medical staff.

4. Recruitment and Vetting Procedures

Telford Raiders follows the RFL’s safeguarding procedures when recruiting staff and volunteers to ensure the safety of all participants. These include:
✅ Defining clear roles and responsibilities for each position.
✅ Conducting informal or formal interviews before appointments.
✅ Obtaining and verifying two references for all new staff or volunteers.
✅ Requiring an RFL CRB Enhanced Disclosure for individuals in roles involving direct access to children or vulnerable adults.

The club aligns with the RFL’s aim of preventing individuals with relevant and significant offending histories from working with children or vulnerable adults, thereby reducing risks of harm or grooming within the sport.

5. Whistleblowing Policy

Telford Raiders fully supports the RFL’s Whistleblowing Policy. Any club member with concerns regarding the behavior of another adult can report their concerns in confidence to the Club Welfare Officer (CWO) or the RFL Safeguarding Team.

6. Club Welfare Officer (CWO)

Telford Raiders has appointed a designated Club Welfare Officer (CWO) in line with the RFL’s guidelines. The CWO, Jane Baker, is the first point of contact for all safeguarding concerns. Jane has received the necessary training as per the RFL’s Safeguarding Education and Training Strategy and will:

  • Provide advice and support to club members and parents/carers.
  • Ensure concerns are reported correctly and efficiently.
  • Raise awareness about safeguarding best practices within the club.

7. Anti-Bullying Policy

Bullying, in any form, is not tolerated at Telford Raiders. If any player, parent, or member experiences or witnesses bullying, they should report it to the CWO immediately. In cases of serious bullying, or instances of adult-to-child bullying, the matter will be escalated to the RFL Safeguarding Team.

8. Respect Code of Conduct & Disciplinary Measures

Telford Raiders implements the RFL’s Respect Code of Conduct, which applies to:

  • Coaches
  • Players
  • Officials
  • Parents/Carers

All club members are required to adhere to this code, which promotes respect, fair play, and sportsmanship. The club has a clear disciplinary system in place to address any misconduct. Serious breaches may result in sanctions from the club, league, or RFL.

9. Reporting Concerns & Further Information

If you have any safeguarding concerns or need further information, please contact:

Club Welfare Officer – Jane Baker
Chairman – Fred Baker
Director of Rugby – Phil Cavanagh

For additional support, you can contact:
📞 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline – 0808 800 5000
📧 RFL Safeguarding Team – safeguarding@rfl.uk.com
📍 RFL Safeguarding Office – Gate 13, Rowsley Street, Etihad Campus, Manchester, M11 3FF
🔗 General Advice – RFL Safeguarding Website

Telford Raiders is committed to maintaining a culture of safety, respect, and inclusion, ensuring all players and members can enjoy the sport in a protected and supportive environment.