Inclusion & Diversity

At Somerset RFU champion inclusion and diversity at every level of our operations. Our commitment is to create an environment that respects and values individual differences along all dimensions of diversity including, but not limited to, race, gender, age, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, education, and religion.

Somerset RFU is committed to fostering a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals can thrive. We believe that rugby is more than just a sport; it’s a community built on the values of respect, teamwork, and integrity.

Inclusion

We strive to create an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our members. We aim to provide an environment where everyone, regardless of their background, can feel valued and included. Our club is committed to offering equal opportunities for all members and staff, ensuring that each individual has the chance to participate in every aspect of the club.

Diversity

We recognize and honour the differences that make each member unique. This includes but is not limited to race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Our diversity fuels our strength and enriches our unity.

Actions

Recruitment and Retention: We are dedicated to recruiting and retaining a diverse club membership and staff, promoting a broader spectrum of viewpoints and experiences.

Education and Training: We commit to continuous education and training for our members and staff to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of diversity and inclusion principles.

Community Engagement: We pledge to engage with diverse communities through outreach programs and partnerships that expand our impact and reflect our values.

Policy and Practice Reviews: We will regularly review our policies and practices to ensure they meet our high standards for fairness and equality.

Open Dialogue: 

We encourage open dialogue and feedback from our members and the wider community to continuously improve our inclusivity practices.

Accountability

We hold ourselves accountable to these commitments through transparent reporting of our progress and swift action to address any issues of inequality or exclusion. The leadership of [Rugby Club Name] will regularly evaluate our inclusivity efforts and make adjustments as needed to better serve our diverse community.

Conclusion

At Somerset RFU, inclusion and diversity are at the core of what we do. We believe that embracing these values not only enhances our club but also contributes to the growth and development of the sport of rugby itself. Together, we are stronger, and together, we will build a more inclusive and diverse future.

This statement serves as a formal declaration of your club’s values and practices regarding inclusion and diversity. You can tailor the specific actions and commitments to align with the club’s strategic goals and the community it serves.

Feedback and Suggestions:

Your feedback is vital for us to grow and improve. Please reach out to me with your suggestions or concerns regarding our Diversity and Inclusion efforts. My contact details: 

Mark Wesemann  Diversity and Inclusion Lead Somerset RFU 

Mob: 07714149245 E: mark.wesemann@somersetrfu.co.uk

 

Playing out of age grade

The priority is always for age grade players to play in their defined age/year group, with their peers/friends and where those that support them are most closely connected. Playing out of age grade and combining age grades is the exception. For any player to do so, the circumstances, conditions, assessments and approvals required in regulation must be in place beforehand. The ultimate consideration must be the welfare and safety of all the players involved.

Playing up or down out of age grade approval form (smartsheet.com)

Combining out of age grade approval form (smartsheet.com)