This year, Play Safe is asking every adult in football to Keep Up The Convo with children and young people, not just over Play Safe weekend, but throughout the season.

Safeguarding isn’t just about knowing what to do when something’s wrong. It’s about making opportunities for everyday conversations. On the pitch. On the sidelines. On the way home. At pick-up and drop-off.

Over Play Safe weekend, and every other weekend this season.
Because, the more we talk, listen, and respond, the more children and young people feel heard, and the more likely they are to speak up when something isn’t right.

WHATEVER YOUR ROLE, KEEP UP THE CONVO

Parents and carers remain responsible for checking their child is taken care of in football.

Things to do as a parent/carer:



• Complete the free, 30-minute online Safeguarding Awareness for Parents and Carers course.

• Know who your child’s coach/manager is and how to contact them.

• Know how to contact our Club Welfare Officer and where to report a concern. 

• Ask about FA DBS Checks and safeguarding qualifications of the staff at your club.

• Know what unacceptable behaviour looks like and the club’s Codes of Conduct. 

• Keep on checking in with your child(ren) – make sure they know how to report a concern.

As a coach or manager, you’re in a position of trust and responsibility to many.  

Things to do as a coach or manager:



• Check and challenge your own behaviour, as well as other peoples. Shouting at children is not okay. 

• Make sure you’re working with another DBS-checked coach. 

• Only communicate online with a child’s parent or carer. Keep it football related. 

• Be fair, encouraging, inclusive. Try to understand every child’s needs, speak with their parent/carer about what would work best for their child.

On or off the pitch, players should expect to feel safe, always. 

Things to do as a player: 

• 

If something feels wrong or unsafe, know how and where to report a concern. 

• Keep talking to your parent/carer. Tell them if you’re worried about anything. 

• Expect to play in a safe environment, always. 

• Be positive and always support other players.

WHAT TO DO WITH WHAT YOU HEAR?
Listening matters. But so does what happens next.
Show children and young people that their views have been taken seriously. Respond to what they share, explain what happens next and, where appropriate, show them what has changed because you listened.

Sometimes, a conversation may leave you worried about a child’s safety or wellbeing. They might tell you something directly, hint that something isn’t right, or you may notice something that concerns you.

You don’t need to investigate or have all the answers. Listen, take them seriously and know what to do next.

Build your confidence with the FA's safeguarding guidance and education resources, or report a concern if something doesn’t feel right.

You can find more information, guidance and resources at https://www.englandfootball.com/playsafe