Safeguarding and Welfare
Keeping children safe in football
Our Commitment to Safety
At Staincross Rangers JFC, safeguarding is not just a policy—it is the foundation of our club. We strictly adhere to The FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures to ensure that football is fun, safe, and inclusive for every child.
We acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or participates in football should be able to do so in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse.
How We Keep Children Safe
We implement rigorous standards to ensure the highest level of care for your children.
Safe Recruitment
Every volunteer, coach, and committee member involved in regulated activity with children undergoes a rigorous recruitment process, including an Enhanced DBS Check (Criminal Record Check) processed via The FA.
Qualified Coaches
Our lead coaches are required to hold at least the "Introduction to Coaching Football" qualification, which includes mandatory modules on Safeguarding Children and First Aid in Football.
Dedicated Welfare Officer
We have a designated Club Welfare Officer (CWO) who has completed the "Welfare Officer Workshop" and "Safeguarding for Committee Members" training, ensuring we have expert guidance on hand.
The Respect Code
We actively champion The FA’s "Respect" campaign. We hold parents, players, and coaches accountable to strict Codes of Conduct to prevent bullying, abuse, and negativity on the sidelines.
Reporting a Concern
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. If you are worried about a child, it is vital that you report your concerns.
Staincross Rangers supports a culture where staff, volunteers, parents, and players feel able to raise concerns without fear of victimisation. Concerns can include:
- A child's welfare (e.g., neglect, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse).
- The behaviour of an adult/volunteer (e.g., inappropriate conduct).
- Bullying or discrimination.
Immediate Action Steps
- 1
Club Level: Contact our Club Welfare Officer, Mel Osborne.
- 2
County Level: Contact the Sheffield & Hallamshire County FA Designated Safeguarding Officer.
- 3
Emergency: If a child is in immediate danger, call the Police (999) or the NSPCC Helpline (0808 800 5000).
Online Safety & Photography
We live in a digital world, and we take online safety as seriously as pitch-side safety.
- No Names: We do not publish the full names of children alongside their photos on our website or social media channels.
- Consent: We always seek parental consent before taking or using images of children.
- Communication: Coaches communicate with players via parents/guardians, not directly via private messaging platforms, until players turn 18.
For Parents & Carers
Understanding safeguarding is crucial for everyone. The FA offers a FREE online course specifically designed for parents and carers.
Access the Free CourseClub Welfare Officer
Mel Osborne
Club Welfare Officer
Mel is the dedicated Club Welfare Officer for Staincross Rangers. She is responsible for ensuring that the club meets all FA safeguarding requirements and acts as the first point of contact for any concerns regarding the welfare of a child or vulnerable adult.
Policies and Guidance
Documents updated regularly