West Wicklow RFC – Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy
Aligned with IRFU Governance Guidelines
1. Purpose
West Wicklow Rugby Club is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and fostering inclusion across all aspects of the club. We are committed to creating a welcoming, respectful and safe environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate in rugby, regardless of their background or ability.
This policy reflects the values of rugby: respect, integrity, inclusivity and enjoyment and supports the principles and guidance of the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU).
2. Policy Statement
West Wicklow Rugby Club is committed to treating all members, players, coaches, volunteers, parents/guardians, officials and visitors with fairness, dignity and respect.
The Club will not tolerate discrimination, harassment, bullying, victimisation or exclusion on any of the nine protected grounds under the Equal Status Acts 2000–2018:
● Gender
● Civil status
● Family status
● Sexual orientation
● Religion
● Age
● Disability
● Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
● Membership of the Traveller community
The Club is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and preventing discrimination in accordance with Irish equality legislation and relevant IRFU policies.
3. Scope
This policy applies to everyone involved with West Wicklow Rugby Club, including:
● Committee members
● Players (Mini, Youth and Adult)
● Coaches and team managers
● Volunteers
● Match officials
● Parents and guardians
● Spectators and visitors
4. Key Principles
West Wicklow Rugby Club is committed to:
● Providing equal opportunities for participation, development and progression in rugby.
● Respecting the rights, dignity and worth of every individual.
● Maintaining zero tolerance for discrimination, bullying, harassment or victimisation.
● Promoting a positive, safe and inclusive club culture.
● Recognising and celebrating diversity within the club and the wider community.
● Encouraging participation by people of all backgrounds and abilities.
5. Responsibilities
Club Committee
● Ensure this policy is implemented and reviewed annually.
● Promote equality, diversity and inclusion throughout the Club.
● Ensure club practices comply with IRFU governance standards and relevant legislation.
Coaches, Team Managers and Volunteers
● Promote inclusive coaching and participation.
● Treat everyone fairly and with respect.
● Challenge and report inappropriate behaviour where necessary.
Members and Players
● Treat others with dignity and respect.
● Support an inclusive and welcoming club environment.
● Comply with this policy and the Club's Code of Conduct.
Club Welfare Officer (CWO)
● Acts as the primary point of contact for concerns relating to equality, inclusion, safeguarding or inappropriate behaviour.
● Ensure concerns are managed confidentially and in accordance with Club and IRFU procedures.
6. Implementation
West Wicklow Rugby Club will:
● Provide equal access to training, coaching, competitions, facilities and club activities.
● Make reasonable efforts to ensure facilities, communications and activities are accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities.
● Promote awareness and understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion among members and volunteers.
● Apply fair, transparent and consistent selection, disciplinary and grievance procedures.
● Work in accordance with IRFU safeguarding policies and best practice.
● Encourage participation from all sections of the local community.
7. Reporting and Disciplinary Procedures
● Any member who believes this policy has been breached should report the matter to the Club Welfare Officer, Club President or another designated Committee member.
● All complaints will be treated seriously and handled promptly, fairly and confidentially, in accordance with the Club's disciplinary procedures, safeguarding policies and relevant IRFU procedures.
● Where appropriate, incidents may be referred to Leinster Rugby or the IRFU in line with their regulations.
● This policy should be read alongside the Club's Code of Conduct, Safeguarding Policy, Complaints Procedure and any other relevant Club or IRFU policies.
8. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Club Committee, or sooner if required by changes in legislation, IRFU guidance or club circumstances.
The Committee will promote awareness of this policy among members and volunteers and ensure it is available to all members.
9. Commitment
By adopting this Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, West Wicklow Rugby Club reaffirms its commitment to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is welcome, valued and encouraged to enjoy and succeed in rugby.
Policy Approved By: Club Committee
Date Approved: _______________________
Review Date: _______________________