Procedure to Manage Cases of Poor Practice
1. Poor practice is defined as any behaviour, which contravenes RFU codes of conduct (fair play codes) or RFU guidance for Good Practice.
2. Once an incident is reported to a club officer he/she should consult with the RFU Ethics and Equity Manager in order to ascertain whether the allegation is poor practice, bullying or abuse.
3. Once the incident has been identified as poor practice and in consultation with senior club officials (Club Chairman/ Junior Section Chairman), a decision will be made whether or not to suspend temporarily the person accused. Each case will be considered on its merits.
4. A disciplinary hearing may be called. The panel should be made up of three club members with regard to the following criteria:
a. No person who has been involved in bringing the case to the disciplinary hearing should sit on the panel.
b. Senior management of the club must be represented.
c. If the case relates to poor coaching practice. Experience in this field must be represented.
5. The accused will be advised of receipt of the report and provided with copies.
6. The accused will be invited to attend the hearing, which must be held at a convenient time for him/her.
7. The accused must be given sufficient advance notice.
8. The accused must be given the opportunity to offer his/her side of the story and call witnesses.
9. Once the disciplinary panel reaches a decision it should be communicated to the accused and confirmed in writing.
10. A copy of the findings should be sent to the Constitution Welfare Officer and RFU Ethics and Equity Manager.
