Every child and young person who plays football should be able to participate in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from abuse. This is the responsibility of every adult involved in football.

Royal United F.C. recognise its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect and bullying, regardless of age/ gender/ disability/ culture/ religion/ language/ ethnic background or sexual identity. All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately.

It is determined to meet its obligations to ensure that our club provides football opportunities for children and young people, to the highest possible standard of care. Clear practices and procedures, will ensure that everyone knows exactly what is expected of them in relation to the protection of children and young people within our sport.

To attain this we will:

• Require all potential adult volunteers to be checked, through the Criminal Investigations Bureau (CRB).Offer ongoing training to everyone involved with the care and training of children and young people, which will help them to recognise and respond to suspected abuse.
• Follow the clear procedures set out by The Football Association.
• Recognise that parents should always be involved in the monitoring of children’s behaviour or development and should be the first point of contact.
• Have a designated person (Child Protection Officer) to whom all concerns will be referred and holds a certificate in The F.A. Child Protection Workshop and clearance through the CRB.
• Ensure that all adults know who to contact within the group and what to do if that person does not carry out their responsibility for a child’s well being.
• Work with The FA, Social Services, Police or NSPCC to ensure that the child’s best interests are met.

Whenever possible, continue to support and work with the child’s family to maintain continuity of care for the child.

All details of concerns, progress, case conferences, etc are confidential and will not be discussed with anyone not authorised to have this information.