First Kick Foundation delivers a variety of community programmes, each with its own safeguarding considerations. We recognise that the risks, environments and support needs associated with different activities can vary, and safeguarding arrangements should reflect the nature of each programme.

Our commitment to safeguarding remains consistent across all services, whether activities are delivered independently or in partnership with schools, local authorities or community organisations.

Youth Clubs and Community Activities

We aim to provide safe, structured and welcoming spaces where young people can socialise, develop new skills and build positive relationships with trusted adults.

Our youth clubs encourage independence, confidence and positive social interaction while maintaining appropriate supervision and clear expectations around behaviour.

We recognise the importance of suitable venues, safe equipment, appropriate staffing arrangements and procedures for responding to incidents or concerns.

We also aim to ensure that young people joining our activities for the first time feel welcome and supported, while obtaining the information necessary to promote their safety and wellbeing.

Sports Coaching and Physical Activities

We promote safe participation, appropriate supervision, positive coaching practices and the physical and emotional wellbeing of all participants.

Sport should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience where individuals feel encouraged to develop their abilities at their own pace.

Our approach includes considering the suitability of activities for different ages and abilities, assessing potential risks, promoting appropriate use of equipment and ensuring coaching methods are respectful and inclusive.

We recognise that physical and emotional safety are equally important and do not support coaching practices that involve humiliation, intimidation or unnecessary pressure.

School-Based Programmes

When working within educational settings, we collaborate with school staff and follow relevant safeguarding arrangements, alongside our own organisational responsibilities.

We recognise the importance of clear communication between our team and school safeguarding personnel, particularly where concerns arise about a pupil’s safety, behaviour or wellbeing.

Our staff are expected to respect school procedures, maintain professional boundaries and report safeguarding concerns through the appropriate channels.

We aim to ensure that our programmes complement the school’s existing safeguarding culture and contribute positively to pupils’ personal development.

Detached Youth Work and Community Outreach

Our outreach activities focus on engaging young people in community settings, building trusted relationships, identifying potential risks and supporting access to appropriate services.

We recognise that detached youth work can involve unpredictable environments and circumstances, making appropriate planning, professional judgement and safeguarding awareness particularly important.

Our staff are expected to consider environmental risks, maintain suitable communication arrangements and respond appropriately where young people disclose concerns or appear to be at risk.

We aim to build positive relationships without compromising professional boundaries or safeguarding responsibilities.

SEND and Inclusive Activities

We recognise the importance of accessible communication, individual support needs, appropriate supervision and inclusive approaches that allow children and young people with additional needs to participate safely.

We understand that some participants may require additional assistance, adaptations or reassurance to access activities confidently.

Where appropriate, we work with parents, carers and relevant professionals to understand individual requirements and identify reasonable adjustments.

We are committed to treating every participant with dignity, respecting their independence and ensuring safeguarding concerns are not overlooked or incorrectly attributed to a disability or additional need.

Holiday Clubs and Community Projects

We aim to ensure activities are appropriately planned, supervised and risk assessed, with clear procedures for responding to incidents, emergencies and safeguarding concerns.

Holiday programmes and community projects may involve participants attending unfamiliar venues, taking part in new activities or engaging with different members of staff.

We recognise the importance of clear registration arrangements, relevant emergency information, appropriate supervision and communication with parents and carers.

Our aim is to provide enjoyable and enriching experiences while maintaining safe and supportive environments for everyone involved.