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Est. 1880 · Bishops Castle, Shropshire
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Bishops Castle Town Football Club

Safeguarding – FAW

Safeguarding Policy & Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO) Role

Football Association of Wales (FAW) Aligned

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1. Statement of Commitment

Bishops Castle Town Football Club fully supports the Football Association of Wales (FAW) Safeguarding Programme and the ‘Behind the Line, Behind the Team’ campaign.

We recognise that coaches, officials and volunteers have a unique opportunity to be positive role models for young people. We are committed to ensuring that football within our Club is a fun, safe and positive experience for everyone.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. The welfare of children is paramount at all times.

2. Introduction – Policy, Procedures & Practices

Bishops Castle Town Football Club understands that it has a legal, moral and duty‑of‑care responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child entrusted to its care.

We are committed to:

  • Providing a safe environment for all children
  • Protecting children from harm, abuse and exploitation
  • Following FAW Safeguarding Policies, Procedures and Practices
  • Taking into account the needs of children who may be particularly vulnerable

For the purpose of this policy, a child is defined as anyone under the age of 18, in line with the Children Act 1989.

3. Key Safeguarding Principles

  • A child’s welfare is, and must always be, the paramount consideration
  • Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
  • All children have the right to protection, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ability or disability
  • Football should be fun, safe and a positive experience
  • All concerns will be taken seriously and responded to promptly
  • It is not our role to decide if abuse has occurred, but it is everyone’s responsibility to report concerns

These principles apply to all roles in football, whether paid or voluntary.

4. Role of Bishops Castle Town Football Club

The Club accepts its responsibility to protect children from:

  • Physical abuse
  • Sexual abuse
  • Emotional abuse
  • Neglect
  • Bullying

We:

  • Follow FAW safeguarding guidance at all times
  • Appoint a Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO)
  • Ensure safeguarding policies and Codes of Conduct are in place
  • Promote best practice across all teams
  • Ensure safeguarding is embedded in club culture

5. Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO)

Role Overview

Bishops Castle Town Football Club has appointed a Club Safeguarding Officer (CSO) in line with the FAW role profile. The CSO is the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns within the Club.

The CSO will take all appropriate steps to make themselves known and ensure contact details are accessible to parents, players and volunteers.

6. CSO Role, Responsibilities & Code of Conduct

By undertaking the role, the Club Safeguarding Officer agrees to:

Training & Compliance

  • Undertake an Enhanced DBS check every 3 years (or as required) and submit this to the FAW
  • Complete the FAW Child Welfare Course and revalidate as required
  • Administer the FAW DBS programme at club level
  • Ensure all relevant personnel hold valid FAW DBS numbers
  • Ensure compliance with the FAW Club Accreditation Programme

Safeguarding Practice

  • Ensure child welfare is always the paramount consideration
  • Treat all players fairly and equally
  • Promote non‑discrimination and inclusion
  • Ensure parents and children know who the CSO is
  • Ensure incidents and concerns are recorded correctly
  • Investigate minor poor practice issues promptly
  • Refer serious concerns to the League or FAW Safeguarding Team
  • Never allow abuse, bullying or unsafe behaviour to go unchallenged

Standards of Behaviour

  • Act positively, professionally and approachably
  • Never engage in or tolerate foul, abusive or inappropriate behaviour
  • Never use humiliating or harmful sanctions
  • Respect and listen to children’s views
  • Maintain confidentiality at all times
  • Avoid being alone with children unless exceptional circumstances apply
  • Never engage in sexual relationships with young people in their care
  • Not drink alcohol or smoke during club activities
  • Use social media responsibly and appropriately

Safety & Medical Care

  • Not administer first aid involving removal of clothing unless others are present
  • Ensure football remains safe, enjoyable and development‑focused
  • Make football fun

7. Recruitment

The Club follows FAW‑approved safer recruitment procedures, including:

  • Clear role descriptions
  • Verification of identity
  • Interviews or informal meetings
  • Two references (where required)
  • Enhanced DBS/Barred List checks

If concerns arise regarding an individual’s suitability, advice will be sought from the FAW Safeguarding Team.

8. Education, Training & Position of Trust

The Club ensures all individuals working with children:

  • Receive appropriate safeguarding training
  • Understand good practice expectations
  • Are aware of the position of trust they hold and the risks associated with misuse of that trust

9. Whistle‑Blowing

Bishops Castle Town FC fully supports the FAW Whistle‑Blowing Policy.

Concerns about a colleague’s behaviour can be reported directly to:

10. Anti‑Bullying & Codes of Conduct

The Club:

  • Endorses the FAW Anti‑Bullying Policy
  • Has adopted FAW Codes of Conduct for Players, Parents and Coaches
  • Will take action for breaches under its disciplinary procedures

11. Reporting Your Concerns

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

If you are concerned about a child:

  1. Report immediately to the Club Safeguarding Officer
  2. If a child is at immediate risk, contact:
    • Police
    • Social Services
    • Emergency services if required

If the CSO is unavailable or the matter is serious, contact:

  • FAW Safeguarding Team
  • NSPCC 24‑Hour Helpline: 0808 800 5000

12. Further Advice & Support

For further safeguarding guidance:

Our Commitment

Bishops Castle Town Football Club is committed to safeguarding children, promoting wellbeing and ensuring football is a safe, inclusive and enjoyable experience for every young person.

Safeguarding is not optional — it is everyone’s responsibility.