RugbySafe
RugbySafe is the RFU’s overarching player safety and wellbeing programme.
It puts player welfare at the heart of the game and covers how to organise and manage the game so that it is played in a safe and enjoyable manner.
We know that prevention is better than cure. RugbySafe provides guidance and resources for all rugby activity organisers on what needs to be in place. We recognise that mental and physical wellbeing go hand in hand with developing a positive player welfare culture and keeping the rugby community healthy.
Clubs and all organisers of rugby activities have a responsibility towards the health and safety of players, staff and volunteers. Appropriate measures for training, first aid provision and equipment should be in place to ensure that rugby union is delivered to the highest standards in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Being RugbySafe
Being RugbySafe is the ‘Ultimate RugbySafe’ resource.
It provides an overview of the different areas of RugbySafe to ensure you provide a safe and enjoyable playing environment. This guidance is deemed best practice and it recommends that clubs and other activity organisers implement these practices and policies where possible.
Download Being RugbySafe 2024/25
The RugbySafe Checklist contains the 10 Steps to Being RugbySafe and will help you in recognising any aspect of your club's RugbySafe responsibilities you may need to develop.
RugbySafe Essential Guides, Forms & Templates
This includes five sections, each providing information on related player welfare topics and frequently asked questions:
- Section 1: Clothing & Equipment
- Section 2: First Aid Provision (Facilities, Equipment & Treatment)
- Section 3: Medical conditions
- Section 4: Forms & Templates
- Section 5: Useful Links
Howden Risk Assessment Tool
As part of a club's Regulation 9 responsibilities they must complete a yearly risk assessment.
To support clubs and rugby activity organisers in fulfilling their obligation the RFU have worked with Howden, the RFU insurance provider, to produce a risk assessment tool for clubs to use.
Access the Howden Risk Assessment Tool
Once a club have completed their risk assessment they must make sure to update the club's player welfare section on GMS.
Club and CB RugbySafe Leads
Information on this role and how clubs can support them. Clubs should identify a Club RugbySafe Lead to ensure the club meets its responsibilities for the welfare of players and it is compliant with Regulation 9.
Download Club RugbySafe Lead Role Descriptor
Each Constituent Body (CB) also has a RugbySafe Lead. This individual leads on improving player safety standards and delivering player welfare projects at CB level. They also support local clubs to increase awareness and understanding of Regulation 9 compliance, RugbySafe and other player welfare topics.
Download CB RugbySafe Lead Role Descriptor
If you are a Club RugbySafe Lead and not in touch with your CB RugbySafe Lead, please contact them (their details should be available via the CB’s own website or GMS profile).
