Safeguarding Policy

1. Introduction

West Auckland Town AFC is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants involved in football activities at the club. The safeguarding of children, young people, and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance. This policy outlines our commitment to ensuring the welfare and protection of all participants within the club.

2. Aims

To provide a safe and welcoming environment where all individuals, particularly children, young people, and vulnerable adults, can enjoy football free from abuse, harassment, or harm.

To ensure all staff, volunteers, coaches, and players understand their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding.

To establish clear procedures for identifying, reporting, and responding to safeguarding concerns.

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All players, including children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
• All employees, volunteers, coaches, and any persons working for or on behalf of the club.
• Parents, guardians, and carers associated with the club.

4. Legal Framework

This policy aligns with the following UK legislation and guidance:

• Children Act 1989 and 2004
• Working Together to Safeguard Children (2018)
• The Care Act 2014
• Keeping Children Safe in Education (2023)
• FA Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures

5. Definitions

Child: Any person under the age of 18.

Vulnerable adult: A person aged 18 or over who may be at risk of harm due to age, illness, disability, or other circumstances.

Safeguarding: The action taken to promote the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and protect them from harm.

Abuse: Includes physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, and financial harm.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

Club Welfare Officer (CWO): The designated safeguarding lead responsible for overseeing all safeguarding concerns, managing complaints, and reporting issues to appropriate authorities.

Coaches and Volunteers: Must promote a safe environment, follow safeguarding training, and report any concerns to the CWO.

Players and Parents: Encouraged to report any concerns and understand safeguarding procedures.

7. Recruitment and Training

All staff, volunteers, and coaches involved with children or vulnerable adults must undergo DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks prior to appointment.

Regular safeguarding training will be mandatory for all relevant personnel.

Recruitment processes will follow safer recruitment guidelines to prevent unsuitable individuals from working with children and vulnerable adults.

8. Code of Conduct

The club has a zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment, or abuse of any form. All players, staff, and volunteers are expected to:

• Show respect to others and act responsibly.
• Avoid any actions or behaviour that could be interpreted as abusive.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries with children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

Our full code of conduct policy can be found here: https://bishopafc.com/policy-documents/

9. Reporting Procedures

Any safeguarding concerns or incidents must be reported immediately to the CWO.

The CWO will assess the concern and determine if further action is required, which may include contacting local safeguarding authorities, the FA, or the police.

All reports will be treated seriously and confidentially, with respect for the individuals involved.

10. Managing Allegations

If an allegation is made against a member of staff, coach, or volunteer, the club will:

• Ensure the individual is removed from any contact with children or vulnerable adults until an investigation is completed.
• Follow FA guidelines and cooperate with statutory authorities.
• Ensure support is offered to both the individual against whom the allegation is made and the person reporting the concern.

11. Confidentiality

All safeguarding concerns will be handled with the utmost discretion. Information will only be shared with relevant individuals or authorities to protect the welfare of the child or vulnerable adult.

Records of safeguarding concerns will be securely stored and only accessible to those who need to know.

12. Whistleblowing

Bishop Auckland Football Club encourages anyone with concerns regarding the welfare of a child, young person, or vulnerable adult to report these concerns without fear of reprisal. Whistleblowers will be supported, and their identity will be protected wherever possible.

13. Monitoring and Review

The safeguarding policy will be reviewed annually or in response to legislative or regulatory changes.

The CWO will ensure that safeguarding practices are continuously monitored and that all safeguarding measures are up-to-date and effective.

14. Contact Information

Club Welfare Officer: Dave Bussey, 07812 361338, info@westaucklandtownafc.co.uk

Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO): 03000 268835, CYPSLADOsecure@durham.gov.uk

NSPCC Helpline: 0808 800 5000

Signed on behalf of West Auckland Town AFC

Name: Chris Marley

Position: Safeguarding lead

Date: 01/06/2026