At Devonport Service Rugby Football Club (DSRFC), we are committed to building a safe, strong, and sustainable rugby club that is united in its purpose and guided by the Rugby Football Union Core Values. Our vision is to be an agile, people-centred rugby club where everyone is included, supported, and empowered to develop their talents to the fullest.
Acknowledging Past Shortcomings
We recognise that we have not always succeeded in creating the environment that our members deserve, and we have tolerated behaviours that would be unacceptable if experienced by our own families. Moving forward, we will not tolerate any behaviour that intimidates, discriminates, or excludes. Any such behaviour will face swift and appropriate consequences. This approach may seem strict, but it is necessary to protect our members from harm.
Commitment to Improvement
The committee is dedicated to working together to make DSRFC a better environment for everyone. Here are our commitments:
• Serious Handling of Reports: We will take every report of non-inclusive behaviour seriously.
• Education and Awareness: We will educate ourselves and all members of DSRFC on recognizing and speaking out against discriminatory behaviour.
• Inclusive Practices: We will ensure our processes and practices are inclusive and will act decisively in accordance with them.
Expectations of the Committee
• Education and Awareness: Committee members must educate themselves about discrimination, recognize their own biases, and work to overcome them.
• Creating a Hostile Environment for Discrimination: The committee must foster an environment that is hostile to discrimination.
• Role Modelling: Committee members must model inclusive behaviour.
• Swift Action: The committee must take swift action against discrimination or inappropriate behaviour.
Expectations of Everyone
• Welcoming Environment: Everyone must make every member and visitor feel welcome, valued, and respected.
• Understanding Prejudice: Everyone must understand what prejudice, bullying, and discrimination look like.
• Preventing Harmful Situations: Everyone must act to prevent or stop any situation that may make individuals or groups feel uncomfortable, isolated, or discriminated against.
• Recognizing Discrimination: Discrimination can range from overt comments to subtle behaviours and words that are inappropriate within the club.
Call to Action
We ask for your cooperation in continuing our work to create a safer, more inclusive environment. Our members deserve honesty, support, and advocates who will stand up for what is right. Whether you’re a player, member, sponsor, social member, volunteer, committee member, or guest, we are all in this together.
Ensuring that DSRFC is a safe and secure place for everyone is a fundamental part of everyone’s job.
Together, we can create a prosperous, diverse culture at DSRFC, one that we all can be proud of.

Andrew McBeath
DSRFC Discipline Officer