We believe that every child and young person deserves the opportunity to participate in positive activities without fear of harm, discrimination, bullying or exploitation.

At First Kick Foundation, we aim to provide environments where participants feel comfortable expressing themselves, developing friendships, building confidence and accessing support. We recognise that a positive and welcoming atmosphere can make a significant difference to a young person’s sense of belonging, emotional wellbeing and willingness to engage.

Our safeguarding approach includes:

• Treating everyone with dignity, fairness and respect, regardless of their background, identity, ability or personal circumstances.
• Promoting positive behaviour and healthy relationships through encouragement, appropriate boundaries and respectful communication.
• Encouraging children and young people to share their views and concerns, ensuring they understand that their voices matter.
• Recognising individual needs, including disabilities, special educational needs, communication differences and additional emotional or physical support requirements.
• Maintaining appropriate professional boundaries between staff, volunteers and participants.
• Identifying and managing risks associated with activities, equipment, venues and the wider environment.
• Taking appropriate action when safeguarding concerns arise and ensuring they are reported through the relevant procedures.
• Promoting an inclusive culture where bullying, harassment and discriminatory behaviour are challenged.
• Encouraging positive participation while recognising that individuals may require different levels of support to feel safe and included.

We recognise that some children and young people may face additional barriers to accessing support or communicating concerns. This may include those with special educational needs and disabilities, language or communication differences, previous experiences of trauma or other personal circumstances.

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments and ensuring safeguarding support is inclusive and accessible. This may involve adapting communication methods, providing additional reassurance, considering individual support needs or working with parents, carers and relevant professionals to understand how best to support a participant.

We also recognise the importance of emotional safety. Children and young people should feel able to make mistakes, try new activities and express themselves without fear of humiliation, intimidation or unfair treatment.

By promoting kindness, respect, inclusion and positive relationships, we aim to create environments where every participant feels valued and supported.