Gomersal & Cleckheaton FC (GCFC) is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people involved in our club. We aim to provide a fun, friendly, and safe environment where everyone can enjoy football and develop as players and people.

This policy outlines our commitment to safeguarding, our key procedures, and the responsibilities of everyone involved in GCFC. We adopt and support The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures which can be found at:

http://www.thefa.com/football-rules-governance/safeguarding/policy-downloads

Our Commitment to Safeguarding

We recognise that:

• A child is anyone under the age of 18.
• The welfare of the child is always the most important consideration.
• Every child, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation, has the right to protection from abuse.
• All concerns and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.
• We must work in partnership with parents, carers, players, and safeguarding bodies to protect children and young people.

Who This Applies To

This policy applies to everyone involved at GCFC, including:

• Players
• Coaches and Managers
• Committee Members
• Match Officials and Volunteers
• Parents, Carers and Spectators

Club Welfare Officer (CWO)

GCFC has a Club Welfare Officer, who:

• Acts as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns
• Is trained in safeguarding and holds a valid DBS check
• Works directly with West Riding FA and other safeguarding bodies as required

CWO Contact: welfare@gcfc.co.uk

Safer Recruitment

All GCFC volunteers and coaches who work directly with children must:

• Provide proof of identity
• Complete an FA-accepted Enhanced DBS (CRC) check
• Complete FA safeguarding training
• Understand their responsibilities under this policy

Where there are concerns about an individual’s suitability, we will consult with The FA and relevant authorities before making a decision.

Bullying and Poor Practice

We do not tolerate any form of bullying. GCFC promotes:

• Respect for all players, coaches and parents
• A zero-tolerance stance on abusive, threatening, or inappropriate behaviour
• Awareness of bullying as a form of abuse – including physical, verbal, emotional, racist, sexual, homophobic, and online

Anyone who witnesses or suspects bullying should report it to the CWO immediately.

Codes of Conduct

GCFC supports The FA’s Respect Codes of Conduct, which apply to:

• Players
• Parents and Spectators
• Coaches and Club Officials

Breaches of these codes may result in disciplinary action in line with our Complaints & Disciplinary Procedures.

Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

If you are worried about a child’s welfare, it is vital to report it. No action is not an option.

You can report concerns to:

• The Club Welfare Officer
• The West Riding FA Safeguarding Team
• The FA Safeguarding Team
• NSPCC or Children’s Social Care
• The Police (in emergencies)

You do not need proof - concerns should always be raised in good faith.

Whistleblowing

GCFC supports whistleblowing as a vital part of safeguarding. Anyone (adult or child) can raise concerns about another person’s behaviour or practices. You can do this:

• Directly with the Club Welfare Officer
• Through The FA Safeguarding Team (0800 169 1863)
• Via the NSPCC or Police

We will treat all concerns seriously and ensure confidentiality wherever possible.

Use of Photos and Video

To protect our players:

• No photography is allowed in changing rooms, toilets or first aid areas
• Parents/carers must be informed if a photographer is attending an event
• Images and names will only be published with parental consent
• Video used in coaching must be stored securely and used appropriately

Trips and Away Fixtures

When taking children on away trips, we will:

• Ensure appropriate adult supervision (minimum of 2 adults)
• Nominate a lead officer responsible for safety
• Maintain records, emergency contacts, and first aid supplies
• Ensure all players are returned safely to a responsible adult

Safer Club Culture

We aim to create a club culture where:

• Every child feels safe, respected, and listened to
• Physical contact is appropriate and explained
• Volunteers avoid being alone with a child unless in an emergency
• All concerns are followed up appropriately

Last updated: June 2025. This policy is reviewed annually.