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Safeguarding Children & Young People

All children and young people who participate in footy have the right to be safe, feel safe and play safe.

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FOR COACHES & COORDINATORS

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Coaches and Coordinators

Any situation that leaves children or young people feeling uncomfortable must be taken seriously by every Committee and Club volunteer. Each role within a grassroots football club contributes to creating a positive, supportive environment where children and young people can enjoy their involvement and feel a strong sense of belonging within the community.

To support coaches and coordinators, we have provided a wealth of information to help navigate the complexity associated with this critical topic. 

WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF A COACH OR COORDINATOR

  • Even if you have not spoken directly with the child or young person, but you have a suspicion that something is not right, it’s important you say something.
  • Click here to make a report

  • Any physical contact with children and young people must always be normal for football, happen in front of other people and always be with the child or young person‘s consent.
  • When the above criteria is met, physcial contact can include:
    • Tackling
    • Demonstrating skills & techniques
    • Preventing injury
    • Keeping them safe
    • High fives or a pat on the back to celebrate a win.

  • Ensure that guidance towards children and young people is positive, helpful and always focused on their football skills and the game, not them as a person.
  • As a coach or coordinator, ensure that your language is calm, kind and easily understandable.
  • Online communication must always involve a parent or guardian, and used with the whole team.

  • As a coach or coordinator, having clear professional boundaries means....
    • Children and young people understand their role.
    • You always act professionally - friendly, not a friend.
    • Everyone in the team is treated fairly.
    • You follow the rules - sharing information or taking photos, about football, is always with the permission of the parent/guardian and the child or young person themselves.
    • Your behaviour is always appropriate when around children and young people you’re responsible for.

  • It is your role to always know where children and young people are, at all times.
  • Give them privacy to use the bathroom or change rooms but know that they are safe.
  • Wait with them until they have been collected