Torquay Athletic RFC
Safeguarding
At Torquay Athletic RFC, the wellbeing of every child, young person and adult at risk is our top priority. On the pitch, in the clubhouse and at every event we run. This page explains our approach to safeguarding, who to contact, and what to do if you have a concern.
Our Commitment
Our Commitment
At Torquay Athletic RFC, safeguarding is everybody's responsibility. We are committed to creating a safe, positive and inclusive environment for everyone involved in the club, and safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, not just our named officers'. All club coaches and volunteers working with children complete RugbySafe training and hold a valid Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check before working unsupervised with young players.
Safeguarding Team
Who to Contact
Abby Hales is our Club Safeguarding Lead. She is the first point of contact for any welfare concern involving a child or adult at risk connected with the club.
You do not need to be certain something is wrong to get in touch. If you're worried, please tell us.
Reporting A Concern
How To Report A Concern
① If a child or adult is in immediate danger, call 999 straight away.
② For a non-emergency concern, contact our Club Safeguarding Lead, Abby Hales, at safeguarding@tarfc.co.uk
③ Write down what you saw or were told, including dates, times and who was involved, as soon as you can — this helps us respond properly.
④ Do not investigate the concern yourself or promise confidentiality — pass it on so it can be handled correctly.
⑤ If your concern is about the Club Safeguarding Lead, or you'd prefer to speak to someone outside the club, contact the RFU Safeguarding Team directly (details below).
External Contacts
Key External Contacts
Emergency (police/ambulance)
Police non-emergency
RFU Safeguarding Team
NSPCC Helpline
Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm | help@nspcc.org.uk
NSPCC Child Protection in Sport (CPSU)
Childline (for children and young people)
DBS Checks & RugbySafe Training
DBS Checks & RugbySafe Training
Anyone coaching, refereeing or otherwise working regularly with children at the club is required to complete a DBS check and RugbySafe safeguarding training before taking up their role. If you're a parent or member with a question about this process, or you're volunteering and need to arrange a check, contact Abby Hales at safeguarding@tarfc.co.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Safeguarding FAQs
Yes. It's always better to raise a concern and have it turn out to be nothing than to stay silent. You will never be criticised for reporting something in good faith.
Yes — you can raise a concern without giving your name, though it may limit how thoroughly it can be followed up. Where possible, we encourage you to share contact details so we can keep you updated.
Our Safeguarding Lead will listen, record what you've told us, and take appropriate action — which may include contacting the RFU Safeguarding Team, children's social care, or the police, depending on the nature of the concern.
Visit the RFU's safeguarding hub at englandrugby.com/participation/coaching/safeguarding for national policies, guidance and resources.