Management of Suspected Concussions

Schools/colleges should ensure that all staff, coaches and referees are aware of and follow the Department of Education Guidelines that are in line with the RFU’s HEADCASE programme guidelines. This means that any child/player who is concussed or suspected of being concussed should undertake a minimum rest period as stated in the Return to Play Programme.

Schools/Colleges should have a process in place to ensure that parents are informed if a pupil is suspected of suffering from concussion. Parents should also be asked to inform the school/college their child has suffered concussion outside of School.

Remember: There is NO Head Injury Assessment (HIA) process in the community game. This includes all school/college games and competitions. If a player is suspected of having a concussion they must be removed from play immediately and not return to the game.

“If in doubt, sit them out”

This must be adhered to irrespective of the qualification/profession of the individual providing the pitch-side first aid and/or immediate care provision.

The HEADCASE online awareness modules, concussion management guidelines and other resources for schools, players and parents are available on the HEADCASE website.

U19’s Concussion Management Guidelines

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RugbySafe for Schools or Colleges | Management of Suspected Concussions

U19’s Concussion Management Guidelines Headcase

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RFU Regulation 9 (Player Safety)

RFU Regulation 9 (Player Safety) sets out the responsibilities and requirement of those organising any rugby union activity.

Insurance

Liability cover is not arranged by the RFU for schools and colleges.

Risk Assessment

An annual first aid specific risk assessment should be carried out to assess the provision requirements.

First Aid/Immediate Care Provision

The level of cover that it is reasonable and practicable to provide will depend on the individual circumstances of the school, college or event organiser.

First Aid/Immediate Care Training

Schools and Colleges should ensure that any first aid / immediate care training is appropriate and meets the RFU’s minimum requirements.

Minimum Standards for Coaches & Referees

High quality coaching and officiating can contribute to reducing the risk of injury occurring.

First Aid Facilities & Equipment

Where possible and practicable, schools/colleges should have a suitable first aid room (or rooms) for use during rugby and other sporting activities.

Medical Emergency Action Plan

Schools and colleges have a responsibility to ensure that their facilities provide a safe environment.

Incident & Injury Recording/Reporting

As is commonplace in schools, the RFU recommends that any organisation that runs a rugby activity keeps a record of any incidents and/or injuries.