1. Introduction

45 Football Academy Ltd is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children and young people participating in our programs. We take our responsibility to safeguard and protect them from harm seriously and adhere to all relevant legislation and guidelines in England.

2. Legal Framework

This policy has been developed in accordance with the following legislation and guidance:

• The Children Act 1989 and 2004
• Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018
• Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023
• The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006
• The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012

3. Definitions

• Safeguarding: Protecting children from maltreatment, preventing impairment of their health or development, ensuring they grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care, and taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes.
• Child Protection: Part of safeguarding and promoting welfare. It refers to the activity undertaken to protect specific children who are suffering, or are likely to suffer, significant harm.

4. Our Commitment

45 Football Academy Ltd is committed to:

• Promoting the welfare of children and protecting them from harm.
• Ensuring all children feel safe and valued.
• Providing a safe environment for children to learn and develop.
• Implementing robust safeguarding policies and procedures.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

All Staff and Volunteers:

• Must read, understand, and adhere to this Safeguarding Policy.
• Have a responsibility to act on any concerns about a child’s welfare and report these to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

• Responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Safeguarding Policy.
• Acts as the main point of contact for any safeguarding concerns.
• Ensures all staff and volunteers receive appropriate safeguarding training.
• Liaises with local authorities and other agencies as necessary.

6. Recruitment and Training

• We follow safer recruitment practices to ensure all staff and volunteers are suitable to work with children.
• All staff and volunteers undergo a thorough background check, including an enhanced DBS check.
• Regular safeguarding training is provided to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

7. Reporting and Responding to Concerns

Recognising Abuse:

• Physical Abuse
• Emotional Abuse
• Sexual Abuse
• Neglect

Responding to Concerns:

• If a child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services (999).
• Report any concerns about a child’s welfare to the DSL as soon as possible.
• The DSL will assess the concern and take appropriate action, which may include contacting local authority children’s social care.

8. Confidentiality

• Information about safeguarding concerns will be shared only with those who need to know in order to protect the child.
• All records relating to safeguarding concerns will be stored securely and confidentially.

9. Allegations Against Staff

• Any allegations against staff or volunteers will be taken seriously and dealt with in accordance with our disciplinary procedures and local authority guidance.
• The DSL will ensure that the individual against whom the allegation is made is treated fairly and that appropriate support is provided.

10. Partnership with Parents

• We are committed to working in partnership with parents and carers to ensure the safety and welfare of children.
• We will share information about our safeguarding policies and procedures and keep parents informed about any concerns or actions taken.

11. Review and Monitoring

• This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to any significant changes in legislation or guidance.
• The effectiveness of the policy will be monitored through regular safeguarding audits and feedback from staff, volunteers, and participants.

12. Contact Information

Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL):

• Name: Lauric
• Email: info@45footballacademy.co.uk
• Address: Office 25, 321-323 High Road, Chadwell Heath, Romford, Essex, United Kingdom, RM6 6AX