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Safeguarding Policy

Purpose​

This policy outlines Hanworth Villa FC’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of every child and young person involved with the club, ensuring they can enjoy football in a safe, supportive environment.

Scope​

This policy applies to:

  • All players under the age of 18
  • Coaches, managers, and team officials
  • Volunteers, staff, and directors
  • Parents, guardians, and spectators
  • Any third parties involved in club activities

It covers all club-related activities, including training sessions, matches, tournaments, events, and online communications.

Principles / Commitments​

Hanworth Villa FC is committed to:

  • Placing the welfare of children and young people as the top priority.
  • Ensuring every child has the right to protection from abuse.
  • Taking all concerns, suspicions, and allegations seriously and responding swiftly and appropriately.
  • Working in partnership with children, parents, carers, and external organisations.
  • Providing a safe, positive environment for all children participating in club activities.

Responsibilities​

Club Directors and Safeguarding Officer​

  • Promote safeguarding awareness throughout the club.
  • Act as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
  • Ensure all personnel understand and follow safeguarding procedures.
  • Liaise with The FA, police, and local authorities as necessary.

Coaches, Officials, and Volunteers​

  • Complete appropriate safeguarding training and checks.
  • Prioritise player welfare over all other considerations.
  • Recognise signs of abuse and report concerns immediately.

Parents, Guardians, and Spectators​

  • Support the club’s safeguarding measures.
  • Report any concerns regarding the welfare of children at the club.

Procedures / Expectations​

Responsible Recruitment​

Hanworth Villa FC follows The FA’s safer recruitment guidelines:

  • Clearly defining roles and responsibilities for volunteers and staff.
  • Verifying identification documents.
  • Conducting interviews with applicants.
  • Collecting and checking at least two references.
  • Obtaining an FA-accepted Enhanced Criminal Record Check (CRC) with Barred List check where applicable.

Concerns about an individual’s suitability to work with children are referred to The FA for action.

Whistle-Blowing​

Anyone who is concerned about the behaviour of someone in a position of trust is encouraged to report their concerns without fear of reprisal.

Options for reporting:

  • Call The FA Safeguarding Team: 0800 169 1863
  • Write to: FA Case Manager, Wembley Stadium, PO Box 1966, London SW1P 9EQ
  • Email: safeguarding@TheFA.com
  • Contact the police, Children’s Social Care, or the NSPCC directly.

Hanworth Villa FC supports and protects anyone who raises concerns in good faith.

Reporting and Response​

  • All safeguarding concerns should be reported immediately to the Club Welfare Officer.
  • Concerns will be handled sensitively, confidentially, and in line with FA guidelines.
  • Where necessary, issues will be escalated to The FA, police, or social care services.

Disciplinary Action​

Where safeguarding procedures are breached, the club may take disciplinary action, including:

  • Suspension or removal from role
  • Referral to statutory agencies
  • Reporting to the FA Safeguarding Team

Monitoring and Review​

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if safeguarding regulations or FA guidance change.
Continuous improvement and feedback are welcomed from players, parents, coaches, and volunteers.