As we gear up for the 2026/27 season, here are three important updates to help ensure you and your members are prepared for the months ahead.
1. RFU Permission to Referee Overseas or at Third-Party Tournaments
From the 2026/27 season, referees who are members of an affiliated Referee Society no longer need to submit a Permission to Referee Overseas (PTRO) application to the RFU for approval before officiating overseas or at third-party tournaments.
This change reduces administration for both referees and the RFU, while placing decision-making with referee societies, who are best positioned to determine an official’s suitability and readiness for the opportunity.
Referees who are members of a Referee Society remain covered by the RFU’s Public Liability Insurance when refereeing overseas or at third-party tournaments. In most cases, tournament organisers will also provide insurance cover, with RFU cover offering additional protection where required.
Action Required
- Referees planning to officiate overseas should:
- Check tournament insurance arrangements.
- Review their personal travel insurance.
- Ensure cover includes emergency medical expenses, repatriation and cancellation costs.
2. Safeguarding Update
The August 2026 Safeguarding Bulletin outlines several important developments for the new season, including:
- Updates to RFU Regulation 21.
- Introduction of a new Safeguarding Policy and Handbook.
- Appointment of Regional Safeguarding Development Officers.
- Changes to safeguarding practice in response to new legislation.
Key Takeaways
The RFU continues to strengthen safeguarding across the game through:
- Clearer regulations and guidance.
- Increased support through regional safeguarding teams.
- Enhanced learning and development opportunities.
- Stronger accountability and governance arrangements.
Actions for Referee Societies
- Review and communicate the updated safeguarding requirements to members.
- Complete the annual safeguarding audit where applicable.
- Ensure DBS checks remain current and up to date.
- Continue to report safeguarding concerns promptly through the appropriate channels.
Further Information
Please refer to the attached Safeguarding Bulletin – August 2026.
3. Age Grade Rugby
RFU Regulation 15 has been comprehensively reviewed and rewritten for the 2026/27 season.
While we are communicating the full changes to the game, the most significant updates for match officials are outlined below.
Playing Out of Age Grade (POAG)
- A standardised risk assessment process will now apply.
- A 10-day approval window has been introduced to improve planning and reduce volunteer workload.
Girls’ Rugby Pathway
- A combined Girls U11/U12 age band has been introduced.
- Mixed U11 rugby remains available.
- The changes provide greater flexibility and choice for players and clubs.
Player Development Group (PDG) and Academy Players
- Clearer guidance has been introduced for clubs, schools and colleges.
- The updated regulation clarifies responsibility for decisions regarding playing opportunities.
Action Required
- All match officials involved in age grade rugby should familiarise themselves with the updated Regulation 15 and understand how the changes may affect match management and decision-making.
Further Information
The final version of RFU Regulation 15 (2026/27) is available here.
Summary of Actions
Please share these updates with your membership and wider rugby networks.
Key actions this month:
- Review overseas refereeing insurance requirements.
- Communicate safeguarding updates and check DBS compliance.
- Read and understand the revised Regulation 15 requirements.
