Illicit Drugs Policy launched
Running alongside the RFU's Anti-Doping Programme, the Illicit Drugs Policy has been based on models of existing good practice in other sports (in particular the experiences of the Australian Football League) that were reviewed and debated at the Illicit Drugs Forum held at Twickenham Stadium in July 2009.
While English rugby has operated a robust in and out of competition anti-doping testing programme for the past decade, the World Anti Doping Authority Code does not currently prohibit or test for illicit drug use out of competition.
The focus of the new policy will be on illicit drugs, which are open to abuse in a "social" setting and already on the WADA Prohibited List for in-competition anti-doping tests. Seven out of 24 positive in-competition tests conducted under the RFU's Anti-Doping Programme between 2004 and 2009 were for illicit drug use, including two Guinness Premiership players.
There will be a "two-strike" policy with urine testing for cocaine, cannabis, amphetamines and "ecstasy" carried out by Concateno - Europe's leading drug and alcohol testing provider.
For a first positive test (Adverse Analytical Finding) there will be a fixed penalty fine of £5,000 for a senior professional (£1,000 for an Academy player) and the matter is kept completely confidential between the Programme Medical Director, the player, his club's medical officer (and the England representative team doctor where applicable).
The problem is dealt with as a confidential health-related issue with the focus firmly on how to help the player deal with and be treated for his illicit drug use. This also applies to a first admission of use, which does not count as a violation and for which there is no fixed penalty.
Only if the player fails to comply with the treatment process, or commits a second violation, is the player liable to a minimum 12 month suspension, a further fine and public disclosure of the reasons for his suspension. A third violation would result in a further longer suspension.
At every stage of the process there will be mandatory specialist assessment and treatment by a consultant-led illicit drug treatment team from Capio Nightingale Hospital, one of the UK's leading mental health and addiction treatment providers.
Dr Simon Kemp, RFU Head of Sports Medicine, said: "The risks of illicit drug use in society, particularly in the 18-30 age group, are well recognised. The Illicit Drug Forum last July heard in detail about the potential risks faced by rugby players.
"The Illicit Drug Working Group debated at length how best to balance the need for a clear and strong "anti-drugs" message, protect the image of the game, and maximise the deterrence value of a sanction, whilst providing an opportunity for players to achieve a successful rehabilitation. This policy reflects these objectives and is a mature, well researched and evidence-based response to an important issue. As a medical practitioner, I am delighted that the policy is based on the sound medical model of confidential access to specialist treatment for a first offence or admission of use.
"Successful illicit drug policies in sport are typically based on this medical model - one that focuses on minimising the risks to the health of the player by integrating education, testing, assessment and treatment - and that is what the Illicit Drugs Advisory Committee has done with the Illicit Drugs Policy."
PRL Rugby Director Phil Winstanley added: "Our clubs and their players have invested in a world class programme to address the societal issue of illicit drugs. The education, testing and rehabilitation elements will run alongside the comprehensive testing programme operating at Guinness Premiership level and will help us protect both the welfare of our players and the image of the game."
RPA Chairman David Barnes said: "The Illicit Drugs Policy has been developed with the health and welfare of the players primarily in mind. The RPA recognises the damage that illicit drug use can do, and our members fully support the policy and its aims to educate and protect players from the potential damage of illicit drug use.
"RPA members recognise they are role models for the game and need to set an example. However, the profile of the RPA membership closely matches that of the social group most at risk of exposure to illicit drugs. An effective policy will reduce the risk to players and the sport, and provide a structured support programme for players who do become involved in illicit drugs, helping them to deal with their problems and recover."
More information for players is here
Concateno
Concateno, Europe's leading and most experienced provider of drug and alcohol testing services, works with organisations throughout the world to manage the risk of substance misuse through education, training and policy advice, testing and employee assistance programmes.
"Illegal drug use can create tough challenges" said Fiona Begley, Concateno Chief Executive. "Every day our customers have to make tough decisions on drug and alcohol misuse that can profoundly affect people's lives. Concateno provides an unparalleled breadth of advisory services and testing capabilities with an emphasis on quality and best practice so that our customers can rely on our tests when it matters most."
Neil James, Concateno's Commercial Manager, commented: "The RFU has a clear and strong commitment to the introduction of an effective illicit drugs testing programme. Its recognition of an integrated approach to this alongside Premier Rugby and the Rugby Players' Association - involving player education, deterrence and rehabilitation - will be vital in safeguarding the health and welfare of players, and in protecting the reputation of the game."
Capio Nightingale
Capio Nightingale Hospital will be providing the highest quality of care for players on a national basis through an extended programme rolled out from London to all Guinness Premiership clubs.
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