Safeguarding and Welfare
BUILD A SAFE AND FUN ENVIRONMENT
As football’s governing body in Derbyshire, safeguarding is a fundamental aspect of the County FA’s role, and that of its affiliated members.
We all have an ongoing duty to ensure the game is a safe, positive and enjoyable experience for the children, young people and adults who regularly play, watch, coach, referee and volunteer.
Most have a fantastic experience through football – but sadly, some don't. This might be down to over-competitive parents and coaches shouting and constantly criticising them from the side lines (the kind of behaviour that the 'RESPECT' programme is designed to address), or it might be due to some other kind of abusive behaviour towards them.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and having welfare officers in all clubs and leagues with teams is crucial to The FA’s simple three-part approach to safeguarding.
This includes:
- Getting the right people involved (seeking references and DBS checks).
- Creating a safe environment (codes of conduct, education, and best practice).
- Promoting clear systems to deal with any concerns (policies and procedures).
We have a designated volunteer workforce of Welfare Officers who promote and oversee best practice in safeguarding. All clubs with youth sections and youth leagues are required by The FA to have an appointed club and youth league welfare officer. The welfare officers are in place to improve practices at the club and be the first point of contact for any concerns relating to children or adults at risk of harm.
Get In Touch
Jenny Blewitt | Designated Safeguarding Officer
jenny.blewitt@derbyshirefa.com
Phone: 01332 361422
Mobile: 07507 427548
Monday to Friday (9am to 5pm)
Social Media Guidance
In today’s world, safeguarding children and young people applies as much online as it does face-to-face.
Platforms like websites, email, mobile messaging and social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter have huge benefits, but we have to recognise that they can be misused, with increased risks to children and young people.
It’s essential that everyone involved in football makes informed decisions about how they use digital platforms, and with this in mind The FA have published a series of guidance notes.
We would be happy to deliver a bespoke workshop to your club/league, please contact us for more information by sending an email to safeguarding@derbyshirefa.com.
If you are listed on the WGS as a Welfare Officer, have completed all mandatory qualifications and hold a valid FA DBS, you will be able to email safeguarding@derbyshirefa.com who will send you the relevant details you need to set yourself up as a verifier.