At Yate Rugby Academy, the safety and well-being of our young players are paramount. As a club deeply committed to creating a secure and inclusive environment, we’re fortunate to have Rachel Welch leading our safeguarding efforts. Rachel’s dedication to child safety extends beyond the rugby field, rooted in her extensive experience as an educator. Her passion for ensuring the physical and emotional safety of children and young people is the driving force behind the academy’s robust safeguarding practices.
A Passion for Protecting Our Youth
“As an educator, my number one priority is the physical and emotional safety of children and young people in my care,” Rachel shares. “It seems only natural that this passion extends into rugby at Yate. I see it not only as a legal duty but a moral one too.” This deep-seated commitment to child safety is evident in every aspect of Rachel’s role at Yate Rugby Academy. She works tirelessly to promote a safe and secure culture within the club, ensuring that all players, including those from vulnerable groups, feel protected and valued.
The STAR Scheme: A Testament to Our Commitment
One of the most exciting developments at Yate Rugby Academy is our partnership with STAR scheme, an initiative that reflects our unwavering commitment to inclusivity. “The partnership with STAR scheme is very exciting for me as this is a testament to our commitment to bringing rugby to all in an inclusive way,” Rachel explains. “It is already making a tangible difference to players and their families. People comment on the warm welcome and community feeling they get when at the club, and this is a testament to the work everyone does behind the scenes to ensure this safe and inclusive approach.”
The STAR scheme is just one example of how Yate Rugby Academy goes above and beyond to foster a positive environment. Rachel credits the club’s success to the collective efforts of everyone involved, from the dedicated coaches who volunteer their time each week to the tireless fundraisers who take on incredible challenges to support the academy’s work. “I wouldn’t be able to do my role without the driving forces at the club—to which there are many—from the coaches who commit their time for free week in, week out, to our wonderful fundraisers who do mad challenges to help us continue our work, to the Head of the Youth Section and Chairman. I’m thankful to them all.”
Always Striving for More
At Yate Rugby Academy, safeguarding is not just a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing mission. Rachel is constantly looking for ways to enhance the club’s safety measures and promote positive mental health. “There is always more work to be done as safeguarding never stops,” she emphasizes. One of the exciting new initiatives on the horizon is the introduction of ‘breakout areas,’ designed to further support the health, safety, and well-being of our young players. “I don’t want to give too much away ahead of their launch, but this is not the only thing to come when considering health and safety and positive mental health promotion, so watch this space.”
Rachel’s proactive approach ensures that Yate Rugby Academy remains a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all. “We never rest at Yate and always strive to get better to further enhance the supportive environment at the club.”
Building a Stronger, Safer Community
Rachel Welch’s work at Yate Rugby Academy is a shining example of our club’s commitment to safeguarding and inclusivity. Through her leadership, the academy continues to grow as a safe haven where young players can thrive, develop their skills, and build lifelong friendships in a secure and positive setting. As we look to the future, we’re excited about the new initiatives that will further strengthen our safeguarding practices and enhance the sense of community that makes Yate Rugby Academy so special.
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