Introduction

First Kick Football is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children, young people, and adults participating in our coaching programmes. This policy outlines our safeguarding procedures in compliance with the Keeping Children Safer in Education Act 2023 and subsequent updates to safeguard children’s welfare. 

We acknowledge our responsibility to protect every child and young person who has entrusted their safety to us. Our aim is to create an environment where children feel secure, supported, and protected from harm. 

 

Safeguarding Defined 

Safeguarding involves: 

Protecting children from maltreatment. 

Preventing impairment of children’s health or development. 

Taking action to ensure all children have the best life chances. 

 

Our Commitment 

Every child has the right to protection from harm. 

Children need tailored support, particularly those who may have experienced abuse. 

Respect and support for each child must be encouraged. 

Staff and visitors have a vital role in safeguarding children. 

 

Key Principles 

Child-Centric Approach: Policies prioritise the best interests of the child. 

Staff Training: Comprehensive training ensures staff recognise and address safeguarding concerns. 

Code of Conduct: All personnel adhere to strict behavioural standards. 

Open Communication: Transparent communication with parents and guardians is essential. 

Risk Assessment: Regular risk assessments identify and mitigate potential hazards. 

 

Roles and Responsibilities 

To ensure the effective implementation of safeguarding practices, First Kick Football clearly defines roles and responsibilities across all levels of the organisation: 

Board of Directors 

Responsibility: Oversight and accountability for safeguarding policies and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. 

Key Actions: 

Approve and regularly review the safeguarding policy. 

Ensure adequate resources are allocated for safeguarding training and implementation. 

 

Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) 

Responsibility: Lead and coordinate safeguarding responses. 

Key Actions: 

Act as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns. 

Liaise with local safeguarding partners, including children’s social care, police, and Local Authority Designated Officers (LADOs). 

Ensure staff are trained and aware of safeguarding procedures. 

Maintain accurate and confidential safeguarding records. 

 

Staff and Volunteers 

Responsibility: Actively promote and adhere to safeguarding practices. 

Key Actions: 

Attend regular safeguarding training. 

Recognise and respond to signs of abuse or neglect. 

Follow procedures for reporting concerns, disclosures, or allegations. 

Maintain professional conduct, avoiding any behaviour that may be misinterpreted. 

 

Parents and Carers 

Responsibility: Work collaboratively with First Kick Football to support children’s safety and welfare. 

Key Actions: 

Inform staff of any relevant concerns regarding their child’s welfare. 

Comply with policies regarding photography, data sharing, and participation in activities. 

 

Children and Young People 

Responsibility: Take an active role in promoting their safety and the safety of others. 

Key Actions: 

Engage with safeguarding education and training offered. 

Report any concerns about their own or others’ welfare to a trusted adult. 

 

Overall Aims and Expectations

This policy aims to: 

Set clear behaviour standards for staff and children. 

Foster engagement with parents and carers. 

Enable staff to identify and respond to abuse or neglect indicators. 

Address safeguarding concerns promptly. 

Minimise exposure to violence, extremism, and exploitation. 

 

Staff Responsibilities 

All team members must: 

Be familiar with this safeguarding policy. 

Undergo Safer Recruitment checks. 

Attend regular safeguarding training. 

Report concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). 

Follow child protection procedures for disclosures of abuse. 

 

Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs)

Key Personnel:
• Suleman Desai (Operations Director, Lead DSL)
• Lee Galloway (Holiday Club Manager, Deputy DSL)
• Individual Site Holiday Club Managers (DSLs for their site, escalating as needed)

Refer to the Emergency Contact Details Appendix for all safeguarding contact numbers and local thresholds. 

Suleman Desai (Operations Director): 01772 428 086 | s.desai@firstkickfootball.co.uk 

Lee Galloway (Holiday Club Manager): 01772 428 086 | l.galloway@firstkickfootball.co.uk 

Responsibilities of the DSL: 

Overseeing the resolution of safeguarding concerns. 

Sharing relevant details with staff while maintaining confidentiality. 

Reporting concerns to external safeguarding authorities. 

Monitoring ongoing cases. 

 

Safer Recruitment

First Kick Football ensures: 

All staff undergo enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. 

References are obtained and verified prior to employment. 

Recruitment aligns with Safer Recruitment guidelines. 

Induction includes safeguarding responsibilities. 

 

Training and Development

First Kick Football is committed to ensuring that all staff and volunteers are fully equipped with the knowledge and skills required to safeguard children effectively. Comprehensive training will be provided to meet statutory requirements and address specific safeguarding concerns. 

Induction Training 

All new staff and volunteers will: 

Receive safeguarding training as part of their induction. 

Be introduced to the organisation’s safeguarding policies and procedures, including recognising signs of abuse and reporting concerns. 

Be made aware of the role and responsibilities of the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). 

Ongoing Training 

All staff will: 

Attend safeguarding training at least annually. 

Receive updates on relevant legislation, policies, and local authority procedures. 

Be provided with training on specific safeguarding issues, such as: 

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE). 

Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE). 

Online safety and cyberbullying. 

Domestic abuse and its impact on children. 

Radicalisation and Prevent Duty. 

Mental health and its link to safeguarding. 

Specialist Training for Designated Staff 

The DSL and Deputy DSLs will: 

Undertake advanced safeguarding training every two years. 

Be trained in managing disclosures, multi-agency collaboration, and handling complex safeguarding cases. 

Be provided with Prevent Duty training to recognise and act on signs of radicalisation. 

Regularly review case studies and participate in professional development forums. 

Training Records 

A training log will be maintained to ensure: 

All staff and volunteers are up to date with their safeguarding training. 

Training attendance and completion are monitored and reviewed annually. 

 

Types of Abuse

Neglect 

Definition: Failure to meet a child’s basic needs. 

Signs: Constant hunger, poor hygiene, or social withdrawal. 

Physical Abuse 

Definition: Intentional harm or injury to a child. 

Signs: Unexplained injuries or fear of physical contact. 

Sexual Abuse 

Definition: Exploitation or inappropriate sexual activity. 

Signs: Inappropriate behaviour or fearfulness. 

Emotional Abuse 

Definition: Persistent negative behaviour affecting emotional well-being. 

Signs: Low self-esteem or withdrawal. 

 

Safeguarding Against Other Forms of Abuse

Terrorism and Radicalisation 

Definition: Radicalisation refers to the process by which individuals adopt extremist views or behaviours that may lead to terrorism. Children and young people can be particularly vulnerable to radical influences. 

Staff Training and Actions: 

Recognising Indicators: Staff are trained to identify behaviours and circumstances that may indicate radicalisation. This includes: 

Sudden withdrawal from family and friends. 

Fixation on extremist ideologies or symbols. 

Expressions of intolerance or hatred towards other groups. 

Changes in behaviour, dress, or social interactions. 

Increased secrecy or unexplained absences. 

 

Building Resilience: Staff provide a safe environment where children can: 

Discuss and challenge extremist ideas openly. 

Learn critical thinking skills to resist manipulation. 

Develop a strong sense of identity and self-esteem. 

 

Reporting: Concerns are escalated to the DSL, who will determine if a referral to the local Prevent Coordinator is necessary. Immediate threats should be reported directly to the police or the local authority. 

Promoting Fundamental British Values: 

Democracy: Encouraging decision-making and fostering respect for differing opinions. 

Rule of Law: Helping children understand the importance of rules in maintaining order and fairness. 

Individual Liberty: Valuing personal freedoms while promoting responsibility. 

Mutual Respect and Tolerance: Teaching children to respect diversity, including religious, ethnic, and cultural differences. 

 Child-on-Child Abuse 

Includes all forms of peer-on-peer abuse, such as bullying, harassment, physical violence, sexual violence, and exploitation. 

Policy Objectives 

To create a culture where all children understand that peer-on-peer abuse is unacceptable. 

To ensure staff are trained to recognise, respond to, and prevent instances of child-on-child abuse. 

Staff Responsibilities 

Recognising Indicators: Staff are trained to identify early signs, such as changes in behaviour, withdrawal, physical injuries, or emotional distress. 

Intervention: Staff should intervene at the earliest sign of harmful behaviour to prevent escalation. 

Support for Victims and Perpetrators: Victims will be supported emotionally and practically, while those engaging in abusive behaviour will receive guidance to address underlying causes. 

Preventive Strategies 

Supervised Activities: Ensuring all activities are structured and supervised to prevent opportunities for abuse. 

Education and Awareness: Regularly discussing respect, kindness, and the impact of abuse with children during activities. 

Reporting and Follow-Up 

All concerns must be documented and reported to the DSL immediately. 

Serious incidents, particularly those involving sexual violence or harassment, will be referred to external safeguarding authorities. 

 

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) 

Child sexual exploitation is a form of abuse where a child is manipulated or forced into sexual activity in exchange for money, gifts, or other benefits. 

Key Responsibilities 

Training: All staff are trained to understand the complex nature of CSE and the ways in which perpetrators exploit children. 

Early Intervention: Staff must be vigilant in recognising indicators, including: 

Relationships with significantly older individuals. 

Unexplained gifts or money. 

Signs of substance misuse. 

Frequent absences from activities or school. 

Action Plan 

Immediate Response: Concerns should be reported to the DSL, who will contact local safeguarding teams or the police as required. 

Multi-Agency Collaboration: Work with external partners, such as health services and law enforcement, to provide a coordinated response. 

Victim Support: Provide emotional and psychological support to affected children. 

 

Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) 

Child criminal exploitation involves the coercion of children into illegal activities, often under threats of violence or debt entrapment. 

Indicators of CCE 

Children missing from sessions frequently or travelling to unfamiliar locations. 

Possession of unexplained money, gifts, or mobile phones. 

Involvement in drug trafficking or theft. 

Staff Training and Responsibilities 

Recognise the risks and signs of county lines exploitation. 

Build trusting relationships with children to encourage disclosures. 

Collaborate with local law enforcement and social care services to disrupt exploitation networks. 

Action Steps 

Concerns must be immediately escalated to the DSL. 

The DSL will refer cases to external agencies, such as local safeguarding boards or the police. 

Staff must ensure the safety of the child while awaiting further intervention. 

 

Domestic Abuse 

Children may experience domestic abuse directly or witness abuse within the home, which can have severe long-term impacts. 

Policy Objectives 

To recognise domestic abuse as a safeguarding issue. 

To provide immediate support to children affected by domestic abuse. 

Indicators 

Behavioural changes, such as aggression, withdrawal, or anxiety. 

Fearful behaviour around parents or caregivers. 

Physical injuries inconsistent with explanations. 

Action Plan 

Report all concerns to the DSL. 

The DSL will make referrals to children’s social care and liaise with domestic abuse support organisations. 

Ensure affected children have access to appropriate counselling and support. 

 

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) 

FGM is illegal and constitutes a severe form of child abuse. 

Staff Responsibilities 

Mandatory Reporting: Any staff member who becomes aware of a case of FGM involving a girl under 18 must report it to the police immediately. Failure to do so is a legal offence. 

Raising Awareness: Staff should educate themselves on the cultural and social contexts of FGM to engage sensitively with affected communities. 

Prevention: Recognise and report signs of FGM risk, including: 

Girls discussing “special ceremonies.” 

Parents or caregivers planning extended trips abroad. 

Support for Victims 

Provide emotional support and signpost affected children to appropriate health services. 

Ensure concerns are escalated to the DSL and relevant authorities. 

 

Forced Marriage 

Forced marriage involves coercion and is a criminal offence. 

Recognising Risks 

Children being taken abroad for extended periods without explanation. 

Concerns raised by the child or third parties. 

Action Steps 

Report suspicions immediately to the DSL. 

The DSL will refer the matter to local safeguarding teams and the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU). 

Support for Affected Children 

Provide a safe environment for children to disclose concerns. 

Offer practical support, such as arranging emergency accommodation if needed. 

 

Dealing with a Disclosure

Enhanced Guidance for Handling Disclosures 

Immediate Action: Staff should listen calmly and reassure the child that they have done the right thing by speaking up. 

Recording Information: Document the disclosure in the child’s own words, ensuring the report is dated, signed, and factual. 

Supporting the Child 

Provide a safe, supportive environment. 

Maintain regular communication to ensure their ongoing safety and well-being. 

Follow-Up Procedures 

Record all follow-up actions taken. 

Ensure the child receives the necessary support, including counselling or medical care. 

Allegations Within First Kick Football 

This section outlines the procedures for handling allegations made against staff, volunteers, or others associated with First Kick Football. These procedures ensure transparency, fairness, and adherence to statutory guidelines. 

Scope of Allegations 

An allegation may involve a person who has: 

Behaved in a way that has harmed, or may harm, a child. 

Possibly committed a criminal offence against, or related to, a child. 

Behaved in a way that raises concerns about their suitability to work with children. 

Reporting Allegations 

Immediate Reporting: Allegations must be reported immediately to the Director or a senior Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). 

Confidentiality: The allegation should be handled with strict confidentiality to protect all parties involved. 

Initial Response 

Evaluation by the DSL: The DSL will assess the allegation to determine whether it meets the threshold for referral to external agencies. 

LADO Referral: If the allegation involves potential harm or criminal activity, the DSL must refer the matter to the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) within one working day. 

Informing Staff: If a staff member is the subject of the allegation, they will be informed of the process but not the specifics of the evidence until appropriate. 

Suspension and Support 

Suspension: In cases of serious allegations, the staff member may be suspended while the investigation is conducted. This is a neutral act to ensure the safety of children and staff. 

Support for the Accused: The accused staff member will be offered support during the process, including access to a designated contact person and professional guidance. 

Support for the Child: The child involved will receive appropriate emotional and psychological support. 

Investigation Process 

External Agencies: If the case is referred to external authorities, such as the police or children’s social care, First Kick Football will cooperate fully. 

Internal Investigation: If the matter does not meet the threshold for external referral, First Kick Football will conduct a thorough internal investigation following disciplinary procedures. 

Outcome and Actions 

No Further Action: If no further action is required, the DSL will document the rationale and inform relevant parties. 

Substantiated Allegations: If the allegation is substantiated, disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, will be taken. The DBS will be notified if the individual poses a risk to children. 

Unsubstantiated Allegations: Allegations found to be unsubstantiated, unfounded, or malicious will be clearly recorded, and appropriate steps will be taken to support the accused individual. 

Record-Keeping 

A detailed written record will be maintained, including: 

Nature of the allegation. 

Action taken. 

Outcome and follow-up measures. 

Records will be stored securely and retained in line with GDPR requirements. 

Whistleblowing and Escalation 

Staff are encouraged to report concerns about inappropriate behaviour without fear of reprisal. Concerns about the handling of allegations can be escalated to the Board of Directors or external agencies, including Ofsted. 

 

Protecting Yourself 

Staff should actively protect themselves from allegations by adhering to clear guidelines that promote transparency and professionalism. 

Best Practices 

Avoid being alone with a child; where possible, ensure interactions are observable by others. 

Keep detailed records of sessions, including attendance and any incidents. 

Avoid inappropriate physical contact, such as hugging or play-fighting. 

Do not build personal relationships with children outside of the programme. 

Ensure all communication with children is appropriate and related to programme activities. 

Digital Safeguards 

Do not share personal contact information or engage with children on social media. 

Ensure any photos or videos taken are in line with the organisation’s policies and with parental consent. 

 

Allegations Outside First Kick Football 

Concerns about the behaviour of an adult not affiliated with the programme, such as a parent or external contractor, must also be addressed. 

Reporting Process 

Staff should report concerns to the DSL, who will assess and refer the matter to the relevant local authority or the police if necessary. 

Staff should maintain confidentiality and avoid discussing the matter with unauthorised individuals. 

Protecting the Child 

Ensure the child is in a safe environment while awaiting further action from external authorities. 

Document all observations and actions taken. 

 

Whistleblowing 

Whistleblowing policies encourage staff to report concerns without fear of reprisal. 

Key Principles 

Staff can report concerns about safeguarding practices, potential abuse, or failures to act without fear of discrimination or dismissal. 

Concerns can be raised directly to senior management, the Board of Directors, or external agencies like Ofsted. 

All whistleblowing concerns will be treated confidentially and investigated thoroughly. 

 

Good Practice Guidelines

This section provides a detailed overview of good practice measures to create a safe, positive, and respectful environment for children. 

Examples of Good Practice 

Always conduct activities in an open environment to ensure transparency. 

Treat all children equally, respecting their individual needs and dignity. 

Provide constructive feedback that encourages development without causing distress. 

Ensure activities are age-appropriate and avoid placing undue physical or emotional pressure on children. 

Act as a positive role model, maintaining professionalism at all times. 

Prohibited Practices 

Engaging in rough, physical, or sexually provocative games. 

Allowing inappropriate language or behaviour to go unchallenged. 

Failing to report or document allegations of abuse. 

Performing personal tasks for children that they are capable of doing themselves. 

Incident Reporting 

Report all incidents immediately, ensuring records are factual, signed, and dated. 

Inform parents or carers as appropriate, unless doing so would place the child at greater risk. 

Information Sharing

At First Kick Football, we recognise the importance of sharing information effectively and responsibly to safeguard children and young people. This includes ensuring compliance with the UK Government’s guidelines on information sharing. 

Key Principles 

Necessary and Proportionate: Information shared must be relevant to the safety and welfare of the child. 

Secure Sharing: Use encrypted methods or password protection when transmitting sensitive information. 

Clear Documentation: Maintain accurate records of what information was shared, with whom, and why. 

Consent: Where appropriate, seek consent from parents or carers before sharing information. However, if the child’s safety is at immediate risk, information should be shared without delay. 

Consultation with the DSL: All staff must consult the DSL before sharing information outside of First Kick Football, unless an immediate risk is evident. 

 

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework 

This section ensures compliance with safeguarding and welfare requirements for children in the early years age group (birth to age 5). 

Key Requirements 

Staff Ratios: Ensure staff-to-child ratios align with the statutory requirements of the EYFS framework. 

Tailored Safeguarding Training: Provide training for practitioners working with early years children, focusing on developmental needs and age-specific risks. 

Inclusive Learning Environment: Create a safe, supportive, and inclusive setting for early years activities. 

Monitoring and Assessment: Regularly assess activities to ensure they meet EYFS safeguarding standards and promote children’s well-being. 

 

Safeguarding in After-School Clubs, Community Activities, and Tuition

First Kick Football adheres to the Department for Education’s Safeguarding Guidance for Providers of After-School Clubs, Community Activities, and Tuition. 

Core Safeguarding Measures 

Enhanced DBS Checks: Ensure all staff and volunteers undergo enhanced DBS checks before engagement. 

Clear Communication with Parents: Provide parents with detailed information on safeguarding practices and procedures. 

Risk Assessments: Conduct comprehensive risk assessments for all physical environments to identify and mitigate potential hazards. 

Access Control: Implement measures to prevent unauthorised individuals from accessing programme facilities. 

Response to Concerns 

Ensure all staff are aware of the procedures for escalating safeguarding concerns during activities. 

Regularly review and update safeguarding practices to reflect changes in legislation or best practices. 

 

Responding to a Direct Referral

When a child makes a direct disclosure of harm or potential harm, staff must act promptly and appropriately. 

Steps to Follow 

Listen Calmly: Avoid displaying shock or judgment. Use open-ended questions to gather essential details without probing. 

Avoid Promises of Confidentiality: Clearly explain that information may need to be shared for their safety. 

Document Accurately: Write down the child’s exact words as soon as possible, distinguishing between fact and interpretation. 

Notify the DSL Immediately: Ensure the DSL is informed without delay, who will then contact the relevant local safeguarding team or the police in emergencies. 

Avoid Investigative Actions: Leave the validation and investigation of the allegation to external authorities. 

 

Prevention and Early Help

First Kick Football integrates regional approaches to prevention and early help, working collaboratively with local councils to address concerns early and effectively. 

Prevention Strategies 

Promote resilience through age-appropriate activities that address children’s emotional, physical, and social development. 

Engage families and carers in support initiatives to create a holistic safeguarding environment. 

Provide staff with training on recognising early signs of vulnerability or risk. 

Early Help Contact Details 

Contact details for each regional council’s Early Help services are outlined in the policy’s regional section. 

 

Regional-Specific Policies and Contact Details

First Kick Football operates in collaboration with local authorities to ensure region-specific safeguarding measures are in place. 

Documents, Records, and Systems 

To ensure compliance with the Data Protection Act 2018: 

What to Record: Log concerns, incidents, physical interventions, pre-existing injuries, medication records, and attendance patterns. 

Who Records: The individual observing or reporting the concern must document the details. 

When to Record: As soon as practicable, ensuring that the child’s disclosure or safety is not compromised. 

Sharing and Retention: Records are shared only with the DSL or relevant agencies and stored securely in compliance with GDPR guidelines. 

 

Whistleblowing and Escalation

Staff are encouraged to voice concerns about safeguarding practices or failures without fear of reprisal. 

Key Principles 

Concerns can be raised directly to senior management, the DSL, or external bodies such as Ofsted or the NSPCC. 

Whistle-blowers will receive full support and protection throughout the investigation process. 

Any concerns about the handling of safeguarding cases can be escalated to the organisation’s Board of Directors or external safeguarding authorities. 

Contact Information

Key Contacts 

Anti-Terrorist Hotline: 0800 789 321 

NSPCC: 0808 800 500 

Ofsted: 0300 123 1231 

Refer to the Emergency Contact Details Appendix for all safeguarding contact numbers and local thresholds. 

Children’s Rights and Participation 

First Kick Football ensures that the voices of children are central to its safeguarding practices. We are committed to listening to children’s opinions, feelings, and experiences and incorporating their feedback into our safeguarding policies and actions. 

To achieve this: 

• Regular feedback will be sought from children on their experiences within our programmes, using age-appropriate methods (e.g., surveys, informal conversations, suggestion boxes).
• All staff are trained to engage with children in a way that promotes open communication, trust, and mutual respect.
• Children are empowered to express their concerns freely and are reassured that their welfare is our priority.

Policy Accessibility 

To ensure that this safeguarding policy is accessible to all stakeholders: 

• A plain-language summary of the policy will be provided to parents, staff, and children, highlighting key points in an easy-to-understand format.
• Staff will receive a copy of the policy during induction, and refresher sessions will include discussions on key updates.
• The full policy will be available on the organisation’s website and in hard copy upon request.

Implementation and Monitoring 

First Kick Football is committed to implementing and continuously improving safeguarding practices. To achieve this, we will: 

• Establish measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including:

  – Percentage of staff trained on safeguarding policies within required timeframes. 

  – Timeliness of safeguarding actions taken following referrals. 

  – Feedback from children, parents, and external agencies on safeguarding practices. 

• Conduct regular safeguarding audits to ensure compliance with statutory requirements and internal policies.
• Use monitoring outcomes to inform and improve safeguarding practices.

Enhanced Safer Recruitment Practices 

To strengthen our recruitment processes, we will ensure: 

• All applicants are subject to comprehensive pre-employment checks, including enhanced DBS checks and verification of employment history.
• Gaps in employment history are thoroughly explored during the interview process.
• Safeguarding-specific questions are included in interviews to assess candidates’ understanding of child protection.
• A detailed probation period review includes assessments of safeguarding compliance and suitability for working with children.

Online Safety and Digital Safeguarding 

First Kick Football recognises the importance of safeguarding children in digital spaces. We are committed to ensuring their safety from online risks, including cyberbullying, grooming, and exploitation. 

To achieve this: 

• Staff are trained to monitor digital communication during programmes and to educate children on safe internet practices.
• Policies and guidelines on the appropriate use of technology during activities are clearly communicated to staff and participants.
• Parents and guardians are provided with resources and information on online safety to support their children at home.
• Any misuse of technology by staff, children, or third parties will be addressed promptly, with appropriate actions taken.

Review 

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required by changes in legislation or practice. Next review due: September 2026.