Safeguarding recruitment June 2020

Guidance to ensure safe recruitment

THE FA have produced guidance to help ensure fair and safer recruitment across the game.

THE intentions of most people who work with children in football are good. However, as part of football’s commitment to provide safe and enjoyable environments, sound recruitment and selection procedures are essential.

When clubs or leagues recruit new members, all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure unsuitable people are prevented from working with children.

The FA’s Guidance Notes 3.1: Safer Recruitment of Volunteers in Grassroots Football outlines eight simple steps to take.

By following the guidance consistently, clubs and leagues with under-18s will help ensure fair and safer recruitment across the game.  

 

The FA's Policy on DBS Checks

As part of our safeguarding children strategy, The FA requires those working in eligible roles with children and young people to pass a DBS check. This is in line with legislation and government guidance and is standard practice.  
The FA provide the framework and guidance for DBS checks in football. The leagues and clubs then have to implement this to ensure those required to have DBS Checks done have them.  
Where the DBS Check highlights relevant information, this is investigated further and a risk assessment is carried out to establish whether or not they will be accepted to work with children and young people in football.

 

Suffolk FA Designated Safeguarding Officer Darryn Marsh said: “I know getting volunteers involved within a club is difficult at times but it is vital for the safety and enjoyment of all individuals, that the correct people are involved in the club.

“When recruiting for new roles, it is vital you establish that the coach / committee member fits with your club’s philosophy and ethos. You may know this from speaking to the individual direct or from finding out more from previous clubs.

“If the person applying is right for your club then it is essential you ensure they have the correct qualifications / DBS for the role they are taking on.

“I would urge all clubs to take advantage of the Whole Game System which shows all coaching and safeguarding qualifications and current DBS to keep their coaching records in one clear access point.

“Long term this will assist in ensure the safety of all participants, ensure qualifications are renewed at the appropriate time and ultimately ensure the game stays safe and enjoyable for all.”

If you wish to discuss anything further with Suffolk FA regarding safer recruitment across the game, please contact Darryn Marsh on 01449 616606 (option 1) or 07572 107791 or email darryn.marsh@suffolkfa.com

Related News

View All