Northumberland FA recognised for safeguarding excellence

Northumberland FA has been recognised for its excellent work in safeguarding children and adults at risk following an audit by the NSPCC.

The review, carried out on behalf of The FA, found that Northumberland FA achieved the highest rating available, in all 5 areas reviewed.

Assessors commented in the report: “The assessors identified a number of areas of safeguarding practice that are exceeding the standards outlined……..Northumberland FA should be commended for the work they have done in the following areas.”

It went on to highlight the county’s attitude to safeguarding, recording and logging incidents and concerns, and our successful Coach the Coach programme which encourages high standards in the grassroots game.

The detailed report assessed areas including our governance and leadership; operational delivery; how to listen to and support U18s; football discipline; case management of safeguarding concerns and  how we manage compliance with requirements such as coaching qualifications and DBS checks.

 Andrew Rose-Cook FA CEO and Senior Safeguarding Lead said: "Safeguarding really is everyone’s responsibility and we have worked extremely hard to embed it into the everyday practice of all our staff. It’s wonderful to have our work recognised. This wouldn’t have been possible without the strong relationships we have built with agencies such as local authorities and the Police, and of course we must also thank the hard working Welfare Officers in our clubs who have day to day responsibility for safeguarding. They work tirelessly with us to ensure football in Northumberland, Newcastle and North Tyneside is safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

Steve Swinyard, Safeguarding Lead for Northumberland FA’s board of trustees, added: “We are delighted that the NSPCC have recognised that our County FA is fully committed to safeguarding in football. We hope that this achievement will help families feel even more confident that their children are safe when taking part in sport that is affiliated to Northumberland FA.”