With the current National Press coverage on the abuse of children within football it is appropriate that we remind people of the current processes in place to protect our children from these rare but terrible threats.
Firstly you may want to read the FA’s recent message on this and view the short new film they have released outlining the four key steps to safeguarding. England leaders explain 4 steps to safeguarding.
The FA suggest that you reassure yourself by asking your Club questions. We have added our answers to the key questions below.
For convenience links are included in this message, however, if you are reading the message some time after publication you may be better the look on SheenLions.com for the latest information.
Is my child’s coach Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked, FA trained and qualified?
Sheen Lions is an FA Charter Standard Club. We have processes in place, and we are monitored by the FA to ensure we follow them. These process ensure that ALL our Officers, Managers and the Coaches have an FA Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and are certified as having completed and keep current a Safeguarding Children Certification.
How can I get a copy of the clubs safeguarding policy and procedures?
All our policies, including our Child Protection Policy are available on SheenLions.com.
The FA Charter Standard Criteria are also available.
Who is the Club Welfare Officer (CWO) for my child’s team and how do I contact them?
Contact Details for our CWO are available here.
At the time of writing the Sheen Lions’ CWO officer is Sarah Street. The deputy is Gordon Campbell. A club the size of Sheen Lions requires two people in the role.
What is the role of the CWO?
Taking the lead in being informed and aware of the league or club’s responsibilities when running football activities for children and young people.
Helping league and club personnel understand what their ‘duty of care’ towards children and young people actually means and entails on a day-to-day basis.
If I have a concern about a child or someone’s behaviour towards a child what should I do?
You are concerned about the behaviour of someone involved in football towards a child/children then you will find this FA Flow Chart will help you decide on the action you MUST take.
Contact details for the support organisations are linked from our Child Protection page.
