1. Our Commitment to Safeguarding

At First Kick Foundation, the safety, wellbeing and protection of children and young people are at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to creating safe, welcoming and inclusive environments where everyone feels respected, supported and empowered to reach their full potential. We believe that every child and young person deserves the opportunity to participate in positive activities, develop meaningful relationships and build confidence without fear of abuse, neglect, exploitation, bullying or discrimination.

Through our sports programmes, youth clubs, educational activities, community outreach and wellbeing initiatives, we work with children, young people, families and communities from a wide range of backgrounds. We recognise that every individual has different experiences, abilities and support needs, and we are committed to ensuring that our safeguarding approach reflects this diversity.

We recognise that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and believe that every child and young person has the right to feel safe, be heard and be protected from harm. This responsibility extends to all employees, sessional workers, coaches, volunteers, management and anyone representing First Kick Foundation.

We take all safeguarding concerns seriously and are committed to responding promptly, appropriately and sensitively. We aim to ensure that anyone who raises a concern is listened to and that appropriate action is taken to protect the safety and welfare of those involved.

2. Purpose of This Policy

This policy outlines First Kick Foundation’s commitment to safeguarding children and young people who engage with our services.

It aims to:

• Protect children and young people from abuse, neglect, exploitation and harm.
• Promote positive physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.
• Establish safe and supportive environments across our activities.
• Ensure safeguarding concerns are recognised, reported and addressed appropriately.
• Promote a culture of openness, accountability and respect.
• Provide reassurance to parents, carers, schools, partner organisations and the wider community.

This policy applies to everyone working for or representing First Kick Foundation, including employees, sessional workers, coaches, volunteers, management and other individuals involved in delivering our activities.

It covers activities delivered in community venues, schools, sports facilities, public spaces and other locations where First Kick Foundation provides services.

We recognise that safeguarding responsibilities may differ depending on the nature of an activity and the needs of those attending. Our approach is therefore intended to be proportionate, inclusive and responsive to the circumstances of each programme.