Safeguarding & Welfare

A welcoming place to play — where children feel safe, supported and free to enjoy their football.

Our promise to parents & carers

We keep safeguarding simple, visible and proactive so you can relax on the touchline:

  • Warm welcome at every session.
  • Safe adults. All coaches/regular helpers DBS‑checked, in‑date FA Safeguarding and first‑aid trained.
  • Positive sideline. We follow #WeOnlyDoPositive; no shouting at players or referees.
  • Clear boundaries. No private one‑to‑one messaging with U18s; club channels only.
  • Child‑centred decisions. Training, selection and playing time guided by wellbeing and development, not short‑term results.

What your child can expect

  • To be listened to and treated with respect.
  • Coaching that’s fun, age‑appropriate and inclusive.
  • A trusted adult to speak to if something feels uncomfortable.
  • Safe changing/toilet arrangements and sensible photography rules.
  • The right to stop, sit out or say no at any time.

Meet your welfare team

  • Club Welfare Officer (CWO): Tony Livingston
  • Club Secretary (support): John Gothard

Prefer to speak to someone outside the club? You can contact North Riding FA Safeguarding or The FA Safeguarding Team (details below) at any time.

Match‑day & training welfare

  • Toilets & changing: Available in the club building. No adults allowed in the changing rooms
  • First aid kit: Coaches will carry first aid kits
  • Defibrillator: Located on the wall by the main entrance
  • Parking & access: Parking located outside of the club building. Disability ramp access available to main entrance

If something doesn’t feel right — how to raise a concern

You don’t need proof. If you’re ever worried about a child’s welfare, please tell us.

3 easy options

  1. Speak to a coach or the CWO at the session.
  2. Email/phone the CWO (or Club Secretary if there’s a conflict).
  3. Use our secure online form.

Immediate danger? Call 999. For urgent advice you can contact NSPCC 0808 800 5000 or CEOP for online abuse.

What happens after you tell us

  • We listen. Brief, factual notes; no judgement.
  • We act. The CWO triages risk and agrees safe next steps (may involve NRFA/The FA or statutory services).
  • We update you. We can’t share every detail, but we’ll confirm your concern has been received and outline next steps.

Confidentiality

Shared on a strict need‑to‑know basis; records stored securely in line with our Data Protection Policy.

Online form

If someone is at immediate risk, call 999.

You agree to receive email communication from us by submitting this form and understand that your contact information will be stored with us.

Policies & guidance (downloads)

  • Safeguarding Children Policy
  • Codes of Conduct (players, parents/carers, coaches, spectators)
  • Photography & Video Policy
  • Social Media & Communications Policy
  • Anti‑Bullying Policy
  • Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Statement
  • Changing Rooms & Toilets Guidance
  • Transport & Away Travel Guidance
  • Medical & Concussion Guidance — If in doubt, sit them out
  • Data Protection & Privacy
  • Emergency Action Plan (EAP) — venue specific