First Aid

Each team has access to a First Aid kit, available at training sessions, JTs, and festivals.
Kits are stocked with:

• Eye wash
• Plasters
• Freeze packs
• Dressings, slings, and standard First Aid supplies

Used items should be appropriately disposed of after leaving BRFC premises.

Festivals are typically supported by St John’s Ambulance or professional First Aiders.

Our aspiration: All coaches certified at L3 First Aid, meeting RFU’s recommendation of 1 FA per 40 players.

BRFC First Aid Principles

• First Aid is administered to prevent further harm/injury.
• Adults may choose to self-manage accidents (e.g. visit A&E) or permit club/festival staff to intervene.
• Consent is required from the casualty before First Aid is provided unless incapacitated.
• Trained adults in our group may assist, and medical professionals (Nurse, Doctor, etc.) may take charge.
• A First Aider must never be left alone with an injured player.
• Common sense is crucial; priority is the welfare of the player.

All significant incidents requiring First Aid or external medical care must be reported via the Pro-Active App.
Please keep us informed of any additional treatment or recovery updates.

BRFC AED
The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is located on the wall next to the kitchen hatch in the clubhouse.

• Open cabinet door
• Remove AED
• Return to casualty
• Follow clearly marked instructions

Inhalers, EpiPens & Medication

• Inhalers cannot be kept in kits. Must be labelled and used by the named player only.
• Notify the club of players with Epilepsy or anaphylactic allergies.
• EpiPens may be carried by a designated team adult.
• No medication (e.g. paracetamol) will be kept in First Aid kits.
• Coaches can help form a plan if medication is needed offsite.

Other Medical Conditions
Medical details (e.g. ADHD or other learning differences) will be treated in medical confidence.
This helps coaches remain sensitive to players’ needs during training and festivals.

Concussion & Head Injury Protocol
No physical contact is permitted in U7/U8 games, but accidental bumps may occur.

• Each incident is assessed individually.
• Players with suspected concussion follow the HI Protocol.
• They may be withdrawn from play and training.

HEADCASE GRTP / GRAS Protocol:

• Minimum 21-day phased return for ALL community rugby players
• Includes 6 stages of progressive activity
• Player safety is always the top priority

Risk Assessments
Every training session is risk assessed via the Pro-Active App.

When training occurs at alternate venues like the Arena or Arun Leisure Centre (ALC), new hazards are shared via the team chat.

Example Risk Notice – ALC Gymnasium:

• Venue is two rear badminton courts. Enter via ALC reception.
• Route: Pass security → Go right → Stay downstairs → Through double doors → Left at corridor end → Final double doors marked ‘Gymnasium’
• Slips/Trips – Reduce water transfer into activity zone.
• Old towels provided for drying footwear.
• Spectators welcome (space permitting); café facility available.
• Toilets near reception—please note on arrival.
• Timings: 09:00–10:00. Early arrival appreciated to avoid overruns.

Summary
First Aid and Risk Assessments are central to BRFC’s commitment to safety and player wellbeing.
Thank you for your continued support.