Children’s Safeguarding Policy
Total FC is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people involved in our club. We believe that football should be fun, safe, and inclusive, and we take our responsibilities seriously to ensure that every child feels supported and protected.
Our Commitment
- To ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children, regardless of age, gender, race, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.
- To provide a safe, positive environment where children can enjoy football and develop both on and off the pitch.
- To actively prevent the abuse of children through effective safeguarding measures.
- To respond promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concerns.
Who is Covered by this Policy?
This policy applies to:
- All players under the age of 18.
- Coaches, managers, and volunteers.
- Parents, carers, and guardians.
- Club officials and committee members.
Key Principles
- The welfare of the child is paramount.
- All children have the right to protection from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination.
- All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.
- The club will work in partnership with children, parents, carers, and external agencies to promote children’s welfare.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Club Welfare Officer: Responsible for implementing and monitoring the safeguarding policy, acting as the main point of contact for safeguarding issues.
- Coaches and Volunteers: Must follow the club’s code of conduct and report any safeguarding concerns immediately.
- Parents and Carers: Encouraged to support the club’s safeguarding approach and share any concerns with the Welfare Officer.
Recognising Abuse
Abuse can be:
- Physical – causing physical harm or injury.
- Emotional – persistent emotional maltreatment or bullying.
- Sexual – forcing or enticing a child to take part in sexual activities.
- Neglect – failing to meet a child’s basic physical and emotional needs.
Reporting Concerns
If you are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child:
- Speak to the Club Welfare Officer as soon as possible.
- Concerns can also be raised directly with the County FA Designated Safeguarding Officer or The FA’s Safeguarding Team.
- In an emergency or where a child is at immediate risk, contact the police or local children’s services immediately.
All concerns will be handled sensitively, confidentially, and in line with FA safeguarding procedures.
Policies and Procedures in Place
Total FC has adopted the following safeguarding measures:
- FA DBS checks for all coaches and volunteers working with children.
- Safeguarding training for all staff.
- Codes of conduct for players, coaches, and parents.
- Risk assessments for training and matches.
- Procedures for managing poor practice and allegations of abuse.
Useful Contacts
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated in line with FA guidance and best practice.
For more information, please refer to The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy.
Contact Information for questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact: Total FC Email: totalfootballclub@outlook.com.
Last updated: 18 April 2025