As the RFU have stated ‘Children are the lifeblood of the game and it is crucial that they are cared for in the correct manner. Any player under the age of 18 is classed as a child and should be respected as such.’

Rugby can have a highly beneficial effect on the physical and emotional development of children and young adults.

At Avonvale RFC we want playing the game of rugby to be a positive experience for all our young players. We adopt a zero tolerance policy to all forms of bullying, intimidation and physical and emotional abuse.

We wish to reassure all parents and carers that we take safeguarding very seriously.

All our coaches are subject to a criminal record checking process using the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), which has replaced the CRB service.

We also ensure that they have attended courses in coaching children and young adults and that as many as possible have attended Safeguarding Courses provided by the RFU.

Safeguarding is however the responsibility of all adults and we would encourage you to report any such incidences or concerns to our Safeguarding Officer Tim Bunting on: gardner33@hotmail.co.uk