RFL Safeguarding Resource

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Support to deal with the aftermath
Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate
• Depression/self-harm/withdrawn/introverted.
• Hiding/covering body/refusal to change with others
Every child who experiences abuse needs support from both inside and
(sudden change of behaviour).
Lines, support groups and open meetings will maintain an open culture
outside the family. It is important to take appropriate responses to stop
• Temporary or permanent injury.
and help the healing process. The British Association of Counselling
the abuse and challenge the abuser’s behaviour. All this, in addition to
• Detachment from other players in changing areas.
Directory may be a useful resource. The RFL may be able to advise on
counselling options.
therapeutic work with the child can all help the child’s resilience and
Signs of Physical Abuse
• Withdrawn/timid/anxious/depression/lack of motivation/
interest.
Support for the alleged perpetrator
Consideration should be given about what support may be appropriate
to the alleged perpetrator of the abuse. Additional information is
available on http://www.rugby-league.com/the_rfl/child__player_welfare
Some consequences of abuse may be
• Death – by suicide or the abuse, clearly the worst-case
• Diet – bulking up/taking performance enhancing drugs.
• Aggression.
Signs of Neglect
Physical
or on request from the RFL
scenario.
• Over training.
• Loss of weight or constantly underweight/changes to
•
• Training/playing with an injury (overuse injuries).
body shape.
• Becoming aggressive as a form of self-protection/
•
• Unkempt state, dirty, smelling, always the same clothing
them into adulthood. This may include a mixture of social and economic
coping.
healthy diet.
(unwashed).
problems with an increased likelihood of mental health disorders,
physical health problems, substance abuse, education failure and crime
• Developmental delay (physical, emotional and mental).
• Bruises/marks on the body (not consistent with playing
• Inappropriate dress, such as shorts in winter or lack of
and delinquency to name a few.
sport).
coat.
• School problems.
• Hunger, stealing of food, picking up small change from
• Low self esteem/lack of confidence.
the floor.