All volunteers working with children (coaches, first aiders & team managers) must be DBS checked through Leamington rugby club. Unfortunately, due to the way the DBS system is set up, DBS checks through other organisations cannot be accepted.

A DBS check is free to you and organised by the club.

1. To start the process, please ensure you have an account on GMS ( you will probably have set one up when you affiliated your child at the start of the season but if not create a new account).

2. Once you have your account, complete the online safeguarding course

To access the Safeguarding course:
1. logon to your GMS account
2. scroll to the bottom of the screen and click 'Find a course'
3. search for the course by selecting 'Leadership and Management' and 'Virtual'. Leave your postcode blank!

Click the 'Book' button to book the course. You will receive an email with the link to access the course and once completed, your GMS account will be updated.

3. Dig out 2 forms of ID and 1 proof of address and find our safeguarding officer, Paula, at the club. If you'd like to speak to Paula first, please email safeguardinglrufc@gmail.com

4. Your application will be processed and you will receive your DBS certificate.

Concussion training

Concussion is huge focus in rugby and the RFU requests that all volunteers complete the online training 'Headcase Concussion Awareness Training'. The course can be found on GMS using the instructions for the safeguarding course as above.

Coaches

In addition to the above, coaches should attend the course relevant to the age group they're coaching. The RFU offer both online and in-person coaching courses at different levels. Full details can be found on the RFU website. To book a course, simply choose the course you want to do next, select a venue that works for you and book yourself onto it. The club will reimburse any fees you have to pay. If you have any queries about which course is best, please contact our head coach.

First Aiders

In addition to the above, First Aiders must complete the Training and certification in Emergency First Aid in Rugby Union (EAFRU). The EFARU course has been developed by the RFU specifically to meet the needs of players and is a fully recognised Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course with extra elements designed for coaches, match officials and designated first aid volunteers (it can also be credited towards a larger qualification). It's a a one day in-person course and you will be given your first aid bag and access details to the first aid cabinet to top up supplies.

Leamington runs club-specific courses at the club when there's enough people, otherwise courses can be booked the RFU website. Please contact Melanie Harvey to register your interest and find out what courses are available.