In support of the NSPCC Parents in Sport Week Surrey FA is asking every parent/carer with a child involved in the game to ensure they are clear about footballs safeguards.

Consistently children of all ages tell us they play football to have fun and be with friends. 

Thankfully, the vast majority of children’s experience in football is positive, but sadly, for some, this isn’t the case.

From parents, carers, coaches, club administrators, volunteers, referees and welfare officers; every adult in football has a responsibility to understand and uphold safeguards.

This week we are asking every parent/carer to ensure they play their part by making sure they:

• Make the Sports Parents Promise.
• Know who coaches their child and that they are FA DBS checked and safeguarding trained.
• Have the name and contact details of their club’s welfare officer in their phone.
• Are clear about acceptable and unacceptable behaviours at their child’s club.
• Sign up and adhere to their club’s code of conduct.
• Help their child to understand their rights and know who they can talk to you if they are worried about an adult’s behaviour.
• Encourage their child to speak out about anything that worries them, no matter how big or small.

Sue Ravenlaw, FA Head of Safeguarding said: “Hundreds of thousands of footballs volunteers have completed The FAs safeguarding training and a DBS check. Every club with youth teams has a dedicated Club Welfare Officer and a committee that has completed safeguarding training.  We want to ensure that every parent/carer is clear about the safeguards at their child’s club and understand how they can also help to keep their child safe”.

Phil Rendell, Designated Safeguarding Officer for Surrey FA said: “This is a great initiative, as we strongly believe that positive encouragement and involvement from parents not only helps children with their performance on the field but builds strong and lasting relationships between parents and their children. Paired with the relaunch of the FA’s Pledge of Positivity, we strongly encourage signing The Sports Parents Promise to further show your support for your child.”

For more information on Parents in Sports Week and signing the 'Sports Parents Promise', click here.