Following communication from The FA, all County FAs are now sharing requirements and best practice of safeguarding across grassroots affiliated football which encompasses 16/17-year-olds playing in open-age football.

The communication confirms that everyone working (i.e. coaching/managing) with under 18s, whether in youth or open-age adult football, are subject to The FA’s Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, underpinned by legislation. Having undertaken an audit on the FA Whole Game System, some clubs have been highlighted as having 16/17-year-old players.

Where 16- and 17-year-olds will be playing in the team, the coaching/management team require an FA DBS. If the club also have a youth section, the Club Welfare Officer may be able to assist with the DBS. If this is not possible, please contact Helen or Wayne, who will be able to offer support.

Listed below are areas that these clubs will now need to consider, with the intention to implement. We recognise this will be a change in practice for some clubs and would, therefore, like to take this opportunity to share that our Designated Safeguarding Officer Helen Hever and colleague, Emily Reece, are here to support and assist clubs in this process.

• DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) Checks - Coaches/Managers and Assistants, First Aiders and Club Welfare Officers
• Adopting a Safeguarding Children Policy
• Appointing a Club Welfare Officer
• Sharing "Know your Rights" with 16/17 year old players