How do I find out more information or have a specific concern?
If your child(ren) is already a member of a local junior football club, they will have a Club Welfare Officer. This person has volunteered to safeguard the best interests of children within that club and is your first point of contact. Alternatively you can contact your County FA and speak to the County Welfare Officer.
Some of the more worrying concerns are; How can we find out more about the dangers the Internet might pose and how can we educate ourselves and children to help combat those dangers? There are a host of information and educational websites available to; parents, carers, coaches and children (of various ages), but CEOPS (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre), in particular has a very informative website; http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk .Please visit and explore, it is well worthwhile.
Safeguarding Children Workshops
What are they?
These are three hour workshops which aim to encourage a safer environment for everyone. You will be encouraged to discuss some of the most important Safeguarding Children issues in football. The aim is to explore what appropriate and inappropriate behaviour looks sounds and feels like. Clear guidance is given on best practice in football and on what actions should be taken if there are worries about the welfare of a child or young person.
Why are they important?
Football, like any activity with children and young people, can and does attract people who wish to abuse their power over children. Sometimes this is sexual and sometimes it is physical or emotional and may include bullying or racist abuse.
Some people will have been coached or trained or brought up to think that shouting and even hitting children is acceptable in football. This workshop confirms that bullying and abuse in any form is unacceptable and we all have a legal and moral responsibility to be aware of and look out for children in our care.
How do I get on one?
Contact your County FA, they have a range of courses running and can direct you to the nearest one. The cost, which includes delivery by an FA accredited Tutor, a comprehensive resource pack and a certificate of attendance, To find out more contact wendy.chambers@huntsfa.com