Safeguarding - GT7 Football

Football should always feel like a safe place to be

The wellbeing and safety of every young person at GT7 comes first. We want players to enjoy their football in a positive environment where they feel respected, supported and able to speak up if something does not feel right.

Our safeguarding policy applies to all staff, including volunteers, students or anyone working on behalf of GT7 Football Academy. It is supported by clear codes of conduct for coaches, players, parents and spectators.

If you have a concern

If you are worried about the welfare of a child or have a concern about anything connected with GT7, please speak to Dominique Gardner, our Club Welfare Officer.

Email Dominique

What safeguarding means at GT7

GT7’s safeguarding policy is there to protect everyone

GT7’s safeguarding policy is there to protect the children and young people who take part in our football and to give everyone working with GT7 clear principles around safeguarding and child protection.

We believe that no child or young person should experience abuse of any kind and recognise our responsibility to promote their welfare and keep them safe.

The standards we expect

Creating the right environment is everyone’s responsibility

Coaches are expected to put player wellbeing, safety and enjoyment first, respect everyone involved in the game and never tolerate bullying or abusive behaviour.

Players are expected to play fairly, respect coaches, referees and teammates, and speak to someone they trust if they are unhappy about anything.

Parents and spectators have an important part to play too, from respecting coaches and referees to supporting players when they make mistakes and keeping the touchline positive.

Read our codes of conduct

Working with young people

GT7’s recruitment policy sets out procedures for people working and volunteering with young players. These include identity checks, references, criminal record checks and safeguarding training for new volunteers.

Our recruitment policy

Keeping players safe online

Safeguarding continues away from the pitch

GT7’s social media policy sets boundaries around online contact between adults and young players. This includes restrictions on personal social media connections and non football related private communication with children and young people.

Our social media policy

Equality

Everyone has a place in football

GT7’s equality policy states that football should be accessible to everyone who wants to take part and sets expectations around fair treatment, respect and discrimination.

Our equality policy