There are now many different ways for people to communicate and this changes constantly. On-line communication can be for example by email, instant messaging, apps or social networking sites.

The risks posed by such methods of communication arise from a variety of issues: the privacy provided, the wide range of content that can be transmitted, including content of a violent, sexual or hateful nature, the ease with which images can be forwarded onto others and the difficulty in knowing truly who you are communicating with.

In sport, there are additional risks: inappropriate pressure can be exerted by adults, particularly coaches, on children or inappropriate criticism of a child’s performance. An official position or role within a club, such as coach, can carry with it a level of authority, and engender a level of trust, that facilitates the control of a child.

Against this background, the club needs to establish rules covering how adults connected with that club communicate with children connected with that club.
It is therefore recommended that:
• When communicating, club officials and coaches should consider that speaking to the parent of a child is preferred.
• Club officials and coaches should not communicate with individual children at any time, on any matter, unless there is an immediate risk to the welfare of that child which can be lessened by such contact. Even then, they should, at least, copy in another coach/official where possible.

• If club related information needs to be communicated to children (such as training or match details), you should use groups comprising parents/guardians or at very least other club officials/coaches.
• If replying to a message directly from a child, the parent/guardian should be always be copied in on any response

It is impossible to address every issue or cover every scenario a club or coach might encounter when communicating with children and it is appreciated that different ages will need to be treated differently. However, in all cases the above guidelines should be considered when determining the most appropriate method of communication in any given circumstances.

For further guidance and advice contact a member of Ilkeston Rugby Club’s Safeguarding Team
Safeguarding Officer: Rich Hunter 07791 733696 or richhunter2343@gmail.com
Safeguarding Assistant: Andy Evans 07770 303167 or chairman@ilkestonrugby.com