Safeguarding Policy
Introduction
Pro Player Football Academy is committed to ensuring the safety, well-being, and enjoyment of all children involved in our football coaching sessions. We aim to provide a safe and supportive environment for children aged 3-16 years, where they can develop their skills, confidence, and passion for the game. Our safeguarding policy is designed to protect children from any form of harm, and to ensure that all individuals involved in the Academy adhere to best practices for child protection.
1. Safeguarding Statement
Pro Player Football Academy takes the safeguarding of children seriously and is fully committed to protecting them from harm. We strive to create an environment where children are treated with respect, have a positive experience in football, and are able to participate in sessions without fear of abuse or neglect. We recognize our responsibility to act in the best interest of all children and young people under our care.
2. Key Principles
The welfare of the child is paramount in all our activities.
All children, regardless of age, gender, race, disability, religion, or sexual orientation, have the right to be protected from harm.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and all staff, volunteers, and coaches must be aware of their duty to protect children.
All concerns regarding the welfare of a child must be taken seriously and acted upon promptly.
3. Recruitment and Training
All coaches, staff, and volunteers working with children will undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
We ensure that all our coaches are trained in safeguarding children and are regularly updated on child protection procedures.
Coaches will complete appropriate training in first aid and emergency procedures to respond to any incidents that may occur during sessions.
Coaches and staff are expected to behave in a professional manner and adhere to the Academy's code of conduct.
4. Reporting Concerns
If any staff member, volunteer, or parent has concerns about the welfare of a child, they must report the concern immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
The DSL is responsible for ensuring that concerns are handled appropriately, in line with local safeguarding procedures.
We encourage parents and guardians to feel comfortable reporting any concerns they may have regarding safeguarding matters.
5. Code of Conduct
Coaches and staff must treat all children with respect and fairness, fostering a positive and supportive environment.
Physical contact with children should be minimal, appropriate, and strictly related to coaching needs, always in line with best practice.
Coaches and staff should refrain from using inappropriate language, bullying, or any form of behavior that could harm a child’s emotional well-being.
Children should be encouraged to participate and express themselves in a respectful and supportive manner.
6. Health and Safety
Pro Player Football Academy is committed to maintaining a safe environment during all football sessions and events.
Risk assessments will be conducted regularly to ensure the safety of the training facilities and the activities being undertaken.
First aid kits will be available at all sessions, and qualified first aiders will be on-site to address any injuries or incidents.
We will ensure that children are supervised at all times during coaching sessions, including during breaks, arrival, and departure.
7. Use of Photography and Social Media
We respect the privacy of all children and their families. We will only take photographs or videos of children with prior consent from parents or guardians.
Photographs or videos will not be shared publicly without explicit consent from the child's parent or guardian.
Any use of social media by staff members or coaches in relation to the Academy must be appropriate and professional. Children should not be contacted privately by staff members through social media channels.
8. Allegations of Abuse
If an allegation of abuse is made against a coach, volunteer, or any other individual associated with Pro Player Football Academy, we will take immediate action in line with safeguarding procedures, including contacting the relevant authorities.
Allegations will be treated seriously and investigated thoroughly to ensure the safety of the children involved.
9. Review of Policy
This safeguarding policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure that it remains current, relevant, and in line with any changes to safeguarding legislation or best practices.
Any updates to the policy will be communicated to staff, volunteers, parents, and guardians to ensure ongoing awareness and compliance.
Equality and Inclusivity Policy
Introduction
Pro Player Football Academy is committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment for all children, regardless of their background, ability, or identity. We believe in providing equal opportunities for every child to develop their football skills, confidence, and enjoyment of the game. This Equality and Inclusivity Policy outlines our commitment to promoting equality and ensuring that no child faces discrimination, exclusion, or unfair treatment.
1. Equality Statement
At Pro Player Football Academy, we believe that everyone has the right to participate in football, irrespective of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, socio-economic background, or any other characteristic. We are committed to providing equal opportunities and removing barriers to participation, ensuring that all children are treated with respect, fairness, and dignity.
2. Core Principles of Equality and Inclusivity
Respect for Diversity: We embrace the diversity of all children, families, and staff, and we celebrate the differences that make each individual unique.
Fairness: We treat all children equally and fairly, ensuring that every child is given the opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive and non-discriminatory environment.
Zero Tolerance for Discrimination: We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination, harassment, bullying, or exclusion based on age, ability, background, or identity.
Inclusive Opportunities: We are committed to offering football coaching opportunities to children of all abilities, and we will make reasonable adjustments to support children with disabilities or specific needs.
3. Promoting Equality in Football Coaching
Equal Access: All children, regardless of their background or identity, are welcome to join our football academy. We aim to make our services accessible to everyone and to ensure that no child is excluded because of their race, gender, religion, disability, or other factors.
Inclusive Coaching Practices: Our coaching staff are trained to adopt inclusive coaching practices that cater to the needs of all children. This includes modifying drills and activities to accommodate different abilities and ensuring that all children feel supported and involved.
Encouraging Participation: We encourage all children to participate fully in sessions, regardless of their experience or skill level. Our coaches work to build confidence and ensure that each child feels valued and included.
Celebrating Diversity: We actively celebrate diversity within our academy, including different cultural backgrounds, genders, and abilities. We encourage respect for others and aim to foster a culture of inclusivity, understanding, and mutual support.
4. Preventing Discrimination and Harassment
Pro Player Football Academy has a clear policy of zero tolerance for any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying. This includes, but is not limited to, discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic.
We are committed to educating all children and staff about the importance of inclusion and respect for others, and we actively address any incidents of discrimination, harassment, or bullying.
Any behavior that undermines the principles of equality and inclusivity will be dealt with promptly and fairly, following our procedures for addressing concerns.
5. Supporting Children with Additional Needs
We are committed to ensuring that children with additional needs or disabilities are supported and included in our football sessions. We will make reasonable adjustments to ensure that these children can participate fully and enjoy their experience at Pro Player Football Academy.
If any child requires additional support, such as specialized coaching, modified equipment, or other accommodations, we will work with parents and guardians to develop a plan that meets their individual needs.
We recognize the value of inclusivity and aim to create an environment where children of all abilities feel valued and have the opportunity to excel.
6. Responsibilities of Staff, Coaches, and Volunteers
All staff, coaches, and volunteers at Pro Player Football Academy are expected to actively support and uphold the principles of equality and inclusivity.
Staff are trained to ensure that their interactions with children are respectful, encouraging, and inclusive. Coaches are expected to create a positive environment that promotes equal opportunities for all participants.
Any instances of inappropriate behavior, discrimination, or exclusion should be reported immediately and will be addressed in accordance with the Academy’s safeguarding and disciplinary policies.
7. Monitoring and Review
Pro Player Football Academy is committed to regularly reviewing its Equality and Inclusivity Policy to ensure it remains effective and relevant.
We will monitor participation levels to ensure that we are reaching children from diverse backgrounds and abilities, and make adjustments to our practices if necessary to improve inclusivity.
Feedback from children, parents, and staff is encouraged and will be used to continuously improve our services and approach to equality and inclusivity.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or concerns regarding our Equality and Inclusivity Policy, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements for your child, please contact us:
Kingsley James - Owner Pro Player Football Academy
07771661389
kingsley.james@proplayerfootball.com