Rochdale RUFC consider that they have a moral obligation to ensure when given responsibility for children and young players, that coaches and volunteers provide them with the highest possible standard of care.

Through the implementation of a child/young player protection policy, and with the support of its coaches and volunteers, Rochdale RUFC will maintain the professionalism and safeguards of good practice which is associated with the game.

The policy outlines the following key areas:

• Recognising the responsibility of those involved in Rugby Union to safeguard and promote the interests and well being of the children and young players with whom they are working.

• The value of working closely with other coaches, parents, professionals and volunteers to protect children and young players from harm and discrimination.

• Recognising that abuse does take place in sport and that raising awareness and understanding of the main forms of abuse and establishing communication and reporting procedures if abuse is suspected will further safeguard the children, young players, coaches and all others working in the game.