Safeguarding Policy 26 - 27

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club

Safeguarding Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club Welfare Officer and Designated Safeguarding Lead Officer

Kim Greenaway

Contact details- email kimccjfc@outlook.com

1. Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club acknowledged its responsibility to safeguard the welfare of every child and is committed to providing a safe environment for all. We recognise that a child is anyone under the age of 18 and subscribe to The Football Association’s (FA) Safeguarding Children Policy and procedures.

2. Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club endorses and adopts the following key safeguarding principles:

· The child’s welfare is, and must always be, the paramount consideration.

· All children and young people have the right to be protected from abuse regardless of their age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief.

· All suspicions and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately; and

· Working in partnership with other organisations, children and young people and their parents/carers is essential. We acknowledge that every child or young person who plays or participates in football should be able to take part in an enjoyable and safe environment and be protected from poor practice and abuse. Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club recognises that this is the responsibility of every adult involved in our club

3. Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club has a role to play in safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people by protecting them from physical, sexual or emotional harm and from neglect or bullying. It is noted and accepted that the FA’s Handbook (TheFA.com/football-rules-governance/lawsandrules/fa-handbook) apply to everyone in football whether in a paid or voluntary capacity, including coaches/ mangers, volunteers, match officials, helpers on club tours, or medical staff or other club officials/helpers.

4. We endorse and adopt the FA’s Safer Recruitment guidelines and we will:

· Specify what the role is and what tasks are involved;

· Request identification documents;

· As a minimum meet and chat with the applicant and where possible interview people before appointing them;

· Ask for and follow up with two references before appointing someone; and

· Where eligible require an FA accepted DBS enhanced with barred list check, in line with the FA’s current Safeguarding Children’s Policy and Regulations

All current Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club members working directly in eligible roles with children and young people are required and hold current in-date DBS enhanced checks.

· If there are concerns regarding the appropriateness of an individual who is already involved or who has approached us to become part of Corpus Christi Football Club, guidance will be sort from the County Football Association (CFA). It is noted and accepted that The FA will consider the relevance and significance of the information obtained via the DBS process and that all suitability decisions will be made in accordance with the legislation and in the best interests of children and young people.

· It is accepted that The FA aims to prevent people with a history of relevant and significant offending from having contact with children or young people and the opportunity to influence polices or practice with children or young people. This is to prevent direct sexual or physical harm to children and to minimise the risk of ‘grooming’ within football.

5. Corpus Christi Football Club supports The FA’s Whistle Blowing policy ( as described in this section) which required any adult or young person with concerns about an adult in a position of trust within football can ‘whistle blow’ by contacting The FA Safeguarding Team on 0800 169 1863, by writing to The FA Case Manager at The Football Association, Wembley Stadium, PO BOX 1966, London SW1P 9EQ, by emailing Safeguarding@TheFA.com or alternatively by going direct to the Police, Children’s Social Care or the NSPCC. Corpus Christi Football Club encourages everyone to know about The FA’s Whistle Blowing Policy and to utilise it if necessary.

6. Corpus Christi Football Club has appointed a Club Welfare Officer – CWO (Youth Teams) in line with The FA’s role profile who has completed the Safeguarding Children and Welfare Officers Workshop by the CWO. The post holder will be involved with ongoing Welfare Officer training provided by The FA/or CFA. The CWO will liaise directly with the CFA Designated Safeguarding Officer and will be familiar with the procedures for referring any concerns. The CWO will also play a protective role in increasing awareness of respect, poor practice, and abuse amongst club members.

7. We acknowledge and endorse The FA’s identification of bullying as a category of abuse. Bullying of any kind is not acceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all players and parents/carers should be able to access our anti-bullying policy and know that incidents will be dealt with appropriately. Incidents need to be reported to the CWO and in case of serious bullying the CFA Designated Safeguarding Officer may be contacted.

8. Codes of conduct for players, parents/spectators and coaches/managers (as required by CPSU Safeguarding Standards and included in this pack) have been implemented by Corpus Christi Football Club. In order to police these codes of conduct the club has clear actions it will take regarding repeated or serious misconduct at club level and acknowledges the possibility of potential sanctions which may be implemented by the CFA in more serious circumstances

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club

Club Kit Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club provides each registered player with the appropriate playing kit for use during the football season.

Parents/carers are responsible for ensuring that all Club-issued kit is cared for, kept in good condition and used only for Club-related football activities. Normal wear and tear is expected; however, any loss, damage beyond reasonable wear, or deliberate misuse should be reported to the Team Manager as soon as possible.

If an item is lost, damaged or requires replacement, the parent/carer should speak with the Team Manager at the earliest opportunity. Depending on the circumstances, the Club may request a contribution towards the replacement cost.

All playing kit and any other equipment issued by Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club remains the property of the Club at all times.

If a player leaves the Club, changes team or is requested to return their kit for any reason, all Club-issued items must be returned promptly and in a clean and serviceable condition within 7 days. This condition also applies if a team decides to join another club, or it folds and is no longer operational. CCJFC kit should not be worn if you are not representing our club.

Where Club property is not returned within this timeframe, the Club reserves the right to:

• Contact the parent/carer (or team manager where applicable) to arrange the return of the outstanding items.
• Request reimbursement for the reasonable replacement cost of any unreturned or deliberately damaged items.
• Withhold the issue of replacement kit or equipment where appropriate.
• Take any other reasonable steps to recover Club property.

The Club recognises that genuine loss or accidental damage can occur and will always seek to resolve matters fairly and reasonably with the parent/carer before taking further action.

By accepting Club kit, parents/carers acknowledge that the items remain the property of Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club and agree to return them when requested.

Complaints Procedure

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in the club. We aim to resolve complaints fairly, promptly and consistently.

This procedure applies where a member, parent/carer, volunteer or spectator believes they have been treated unfairly or that the Club's policies, rules or The FA Respect Codes of Conduct have not been followed.

Safeguarding concerns involving the welfare of a child or adult at risk are not managed through this complaints procedure and must be reported immediately to the Club Welfare Officer, who will follow The FA Safeguarding Policies and Procedures.

Complaints should be submitted to the Club Welfare Officer (CWO) in the first instance within 28 days and preferably by email or in writing. If this is not possible, complaints may be made by telephone.

Please include, where possible:

• Details of what happened, including the date, time and location.

• The names of any individuals involved.

• The names and contact details of any witnesses.

• Details of any previous concerns or complaints relating to the matter.

• Any supporting evidence.

• The outcome or resolution you are seeking.

Upon receiving a complaint, the Club Welfare Officer will:

• Acknowledge receipt of the complaint.

• Consider whether the matter falls under this Complaints Procedure or should instead be managed under the Club's Safeguarding Policy or referred to Birmingham County FA or The FA.

• Conduct or arrange an impartial investigation, speaking with all relevant parties where appropriate.

• Maintain confidentiality as far as reasonably possible throughout the process.

• Consider whether mediation is appropriate. Mediation will only be used where it is suitable and with the agreement of those involved.

• Where necessary, refer the matter to the Club Committee or Chair for consideration and determination.

Following the investigation, the Club may take appropriate action, including:

• No further action where the complaint is not upheld.

• Informal advice or guidance.

• A formal warning.

• Requirements for further training or education.

• Suspension from club activities.

• Removal of club membership or registration where appropriate.

Serious misconduct, safeguarding concerns or matters that fall within The FA's jurisdiction may be referred to Birmingham County FA, The Football Association, the Police or other statutory agencies.

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club expects everyone connected with the club to always communicate respectfully.

Abusive, threatening, intimidating or offensive behaviour, whether in person, in writing or through social media or other digital platforms, will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Club's Codes of Conduct and The FA Respect Programme.

Equality Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club (CCJFC) is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the club at every level. Football belongs to and should be enjoyed by anyone who wants to participate in it. CCJFC in all its activities will not discriminate or in any way, treat anyone less favourably on grounds of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability. 

The club will ensure it treats people fairly and with respect and that it will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in and enjoy its activities. CCJFC will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimisation of an individual, which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination. This includes sexual or racially based harassment or other discrimatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal. The club will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs. This policy is fully supported by the Club Officers who are responsible for the implementation of this policy. 

CCJFC is committed to taking positive action where inequalities exist and to the development of a programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities in order to promote the eradication of discrimination and promote equality in football. We are committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and we require all members to abide and adhere to these policies and the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. 

CCJFC commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims when brought to its attention, of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice stop and sanctions are imposed as appropriate. 

Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability and to encourage equal opportunities.

Health and Safety Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in football. The health, safety and welfare of our players, volunteers, coaches, match officials, parents/carers and spectators is our highest priority.

The club is committed to complying with relevant health and safety legislation and The FA's safeguarding, welfare and risk management requirements. We will take all reasonably practicable steps to reduce risk and promote the wellbeing of everyone participating in club activities.

The Club Will:

• Carry out regular documented risk assessments of all venues, pitches, facilities and activities used by the club. 

• Take appropriate action to eliminate or minimise identified risks. 

• Ensure football activities are appropriate for the age, ability, maturity and development of players. 

• Promote a culture where health, safety and wellbeing are everyone's responsibility. 

• Ensure all coaches and volunteers understand their health and safety responsibilities. 

• Ensure appropriate safeguarding procedures are followed alongside health and safety practices. 

• Maintain suitable emergency procedures for all training and match venues. 

• Ensure access to suitable first aid equipment and an appropriately qualified first aider at all training sessions and matches. 

• Ensure accidents, injuries, incidents and near misses are recorded and managed appropriately. 

• Ensure any safeguarding concerns are reported in accordance with the club's Safeguarding Policy and The FA reporting procedures. 

• Ensure football equipment, including portable goals, is regularly inspected and used safely in accordance with manufacturer and FA guidance. 

• Review this policy annually or following any significant incident. 

All members must:

• Take reasonable care of their own health and safety and that of others. 

• Follow instructions given by coaches, team officials and venue operators. 

• Inform the team manager or coach of any injury, illness, medical condition or change in circumstances that may affect participation. 

• Use club equipment safely and report any damaged or unsafe equipment immediately. 

• Report accidents, hazards or unsafe conditions to a club official as soon as possible. 

• Support the club in creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment. 

• Never deliberately misuse equipment or compromise the safety of others. 

Parents and carers are expected to:

• Inform coaches of any relevant medical conditions or injuries before training or matches. 

• Ensure emergency contact information remains up to date. 

• Support the club's health and safety procedures and follow any instructions during emergencies. 

Photography and Filming Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in football.

This policy sets out the Club's expectations regarding photography, filming, social media and digital communication. It supports The FA's Safeguarding Policies and Procedures and applies to all players, parents/carers, coaches, volunteers, committee members, spectators and visitors.

The Club recognises that photography and digital communication can positively promote football, celebrate achievements and improve communication, provided they are used safely, responsibly and respectfully.

This policy applies to:

• Photography

• Video recording

• Live streaming

• Club websites

• Digital images and recordings

• AI-generated or digitally manipulated images where they involve Club members

Everyone associated with Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club must:

• Place the welfare of children above all other considerations.

• Respect privacy and dignity.

• Promote football positively.

• Follow The FA Respect Programme.

• Comply with safeguarding, data protection and equality legislation.

• Report safeguarding concerns immediately.

Photography and filming are welcomed where they celebrate football appropriately and safely.

The Club will:

• Obtain appropriate parental/carer consent before using images of children for promotional purposes.

• Keep a record of photography permissions.

• Inform members when photography or filming may take place.

• Ensure photographers act respectfully and appropriately.

• Follow The FA's guidance regarding photography and filming of children.

Photography or filming must never take place:

• Inside changing rooms, toilets or shower facilities.

• During medical treatment.

• Where a child is distressed or has requested not to be photographed where this is reasonably practicable.

• In any situation that may compromise a child's welfare or dignity.

Images should:

• Focus on football activity rather than individual children wherever possible.

• Show children appropriately dressed.

• Present participants positively.

• Avoid including unnecessary personal information.

The Club will not knowingly publish:

• Full names alongside photographs unless appropriate consent has been obtained and there is a legitimate reason.

• Personal contact details.

• Information that could identify a child's location, school or daily routine.

Parents and spectators are welcome to photograph or film their own child for personal use where this is lawful and appropriate.

However, everyone is expected to:

• Respect the privacy of other children and families.

• Consider carefully before sharing photographs or videos on social media.

• Avoid identifying other children without consent.

• Comply with requests made for safeguarding reasons.

The Club reserves the right to ask individuals to stop photographing or filming where behaviour gives rise to safeguarding concerns or breaches this policy.

Members must not create, alter or distribute AI-generated or digitally manipulated images, audio or video involving Club members where the intention is to:

• Humiliate or embarrass.

• Bully or intimidate.

• Misrepresent an individual.

• Damage a person's reputation.

• Cause distress.

Any such behaviour may be treated as a safeguarding concern and/or disciplinary matter.

Concerns relating to photography, filming, or digital communication should be reported immediately to:

• Team Manager;

• Club Welfare Officer;

• Club Committee.

Safeguarding concerns involving children will be managed under the Club Safeguarding Policy and referred to Birmingham County FA, statutory agencies or the Police where appropriate.

Failure to comply may result in:

• Advice or education.

• Verbal or written warning.

• Removal of online content.

• Suspension from Club activities.

• Termination of Club membership.

• Referral to Birmingham County FA.

• Referral to The Football Association.

• Referral to the Police where appropriate.

Social Media and Digital Communication Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club recognises that social media and digital communication play an important role in modern life and can be a positive way to celebrate football, promote the Club and communicate with members.

This policy aims to ensure that all online communication reflects the Club's values of Respect, Inclusion, Safety and Fair Play, while protecting the welfare, privacy and reputation of our players, volunteers, officials and the Club.

This policy applies to all players, parents/carers, coaches, volunteers, committee members, spectators and anyone representing or associated with Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club.

Everyone connected with the Club is expected to use social media and digital communication responsibly and respectfully.

Whether using Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, WhatsApp, X, YouTube, Discord or any other online platform, members should remember that online behaviour has the same standards and expectations as behaviour in person.

When communicating online, members must:

• Treat everyone with dignity and respect.

• Think carefully before posting, commenting or sharing content.

• Communicate in a way that reflects the Club's values and The FA Respect Programme.

• Respect the privacy of players, volunteers and families.

• Report any safeguarding concerns or inappropriate online behaviour to the Club Welfare Officer immediately.

The Club encourages members to:

• Celebrate individual and team achievements positively.

• Share official Club news and events.

• Encourage teammates and volunteers.

• Promote football in a positive and inclusive manner.

• Support referees and match officials.

The following behaviour is unacceptable and may result in disciplinary action:

• Bullying, harassment or intimidation.

• Abusive, offensive or threatening language.

• Racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic or discriminatory comments.

• Swearing directed at individuals.

• Personal attacks on players, coaches, referees, volunteers or other clubs.

• Sharing confidential Club information.

• Posting false or misleading information.

• Uploading photographs or videos that breach safeguarding guidance or privacy.

• Sharing images of children without appropriate parental consent.

• Encouraging conflict or arguments online.

• Using fake or anonymous accounts to target individuals.

• Any behaviour that could reasonably be considered to bring Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club, Birmingham County FA or The Football Association into disrepute.

Players are expected to:

• Use social media responsibly.

• Treat teammates, opponents, referees and coaches respectfully online.

• Never take part in online bullying.

• Never share inappropriate photographs or videos of Club activities.

• Tell a trusted adult, coach or the Club Welfare Officer if they experience or witness online bullying or inappropriate behaviour.

Players should remember that anything posted online may remain publicly available even after it has been deleted.

Parents and carers play an important role in setting a positive example.

Parents/carers should:

• Support all players respectfully.

• Avoid posting negative comments about children, coaches, referees or volunteers.

• Raise concerns through the Club's Complaints Procedure rather than on social media.

• Respect the privacy of other families.

• Avoid publishing photographs or videos that may identify children where consent has not been given.

Coaches, volunteers and officials must:

• Follow The FA's safeguarding guidance regarding electronic communication.

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

• Use Club-approved communication platforms wherever possible.

• Include parents/carers in communications with players under 18.

• Never engage in private or inappropriate conversations with young players.

• Never use social media to criticise players, parents, referees or other volunteers.

• Report any safeguarding concerns immediately to the Club Welfare Officer.

Team communication groups (WhatsApp) carrying the CCJFC name should only be used for legitimate football-related matters, including:

• Training information.

• Match arrangements.

• Fixture changes.

• Club events.

• Emergency notifications.

Group administrators should:

• Ensure communication remains respectful.

• Remove inappropriate content promptly.

• Report safeguarding concerns to the Club Welfare Officer.

• Avoid unnecessary private messaging with players under the age of 18.

Photography and video should only be used in accordance with the Club's Photography and Filming Policy.

Members must not:

• Share images of children without appropriate consent.

• Publish images that place children at risk.

• Alter images to embarrass or humiliate another person.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses online bullying, abuse or inappropriate communication should report the matter immediately to:

• Their Team Manager;

• The Club Welfare Officer; or

• A member of the Club Committee.

Safeguarding concerns involving children will always be managed in accordance with The FA Safeguarding Policies and Procedures and, where appropriate, referred to Birmingham County FA, statutory agencies or the Police.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in action under the Club's Codes of Conduct and disciplinary procedures.

Depending on the seriousness of the breach, this may include:

• Informal advice or education.

• A verbal or written warning.

• Removal of online content.

• Temporary suspension from Club activities.

• Suspension or termination of Club membership.

• Referral to Birmingham County FA or The Football Association.

• Referral to the Police where a criminal offence may have been committed.

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club is committed to ensuring that football remains a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment both on and off the pitch.

We ask everyone connected with the Club to use social media responsibly and to help promote a culture of respect, inclusion and positive behaviour at all times.

Drug, Alcohol and Substance Misuse Policy

Corpus Christi Juniors Football Club (CCJFC) is committed to providing a safe, healthy, positive and inclusive environment in which children and young people can participate in football.

The welfare and safety of children and young people is our paramount consideration. CCJFC has a zero-tolerance approach to the possession, supply, distribution or use of illegal drugs within club activities, and does not permit the consumption of alcohol by children or young people.

The Club recognises that substance misuse can present significant health, safeguarding and welfare risks. We will take appropriate action where concerns arise while, wherever appropriate, seeking to support individuals and promote education and rehabilitation.

This policy should be read alongside the Club’s:

· Safeguarding Children Policy

· Health and Safety Policy

· Code of Conduct

· Parent, Carer and Spectator Code of Conduct

· Managers’ and Coaches’ Code of Conduct

· Complaints Procedure

· Social Media and Digital Communication Policy

· Equality Policy

CCJFC will operate this policy in accordance with relevant Football Association rules, regulations and safeguarding guidance.

The FA identifies the welfare and protection of children and young people as a fundamental responsibility of affiliated football. The FA’s grassroots safeguarding guidance specifically identifies an adult giving alcohol or drugs to a child or young person as physical abuse.

The FA also operates Social Drugs Regulations. Specified social drugs are banned at all times within football and breaches may result in football-related sanctions.

The Club will therefore ensure that everyone involved with CCJFC understands that substance misuse has no place within a safe youth football environment.

This policy applies to everyone involved in CCJFC, including:

· Players

· Parents and carers

· Managers

· Coaches

· Club officials

· Committee members

· Volunteers

· Match officials

· Visitors

· Spectators

· Any other person attending or representing the Club

The policy applies at:

· Training sessions

· Matches and tournaments

· Club-organised events

· Away fixtures

· Tours and overnight stays

· Club premises

· Changing facilities

· Club transport

· Team Presentation Evenings

· Social events organised by or on behalf of CCJFC

· Any activity where an individual is representing CCJFC

The possession, use, supply, distribution or production of illegal drugs is prohibited at all CCJFC activities and events.

No person may:

· Possess illegal drugs at a Club activity including Presentation Evenings;

· Use illegal drugs at a Club activity including Presentation Evenings;

· Supply or distribute illegal drugs;

· Encourage or facilitate another person to use illegal drugs;

· Bring illegal drugs onto Club premises or any premises where a social event is occurring i.e. Essington Rugby Club;

· Attend a Club activity or Presentation Evening while under the influence of illegal drugs where this creates a risk to themselves or others.

Where an allegation or concern relates to the supply of drugs to a child or young person, this will be treated as a serious safeguarding concern.

The FA’s Social Drugs Regulations prohibit specified social drugs in football.

These currently include substances such as:

· Amphetamine

· Cannabinoids

· Cocaine

· Diamorphine (heroin)

· LSD

· Mephedrone

· Methadone

· Methylamphetamine

· MDMA

· MDEA

The FA states that social drugs are banned at all times and that breaches can result in suspension from football.

Where an issue falls within The FA’s regulatory framework, the Club will cooperate with The FA, Birmingham FA, the relevant league or other appropriate authority.

Alcohol must not be:

· Supplied to a child or young person by anyone acting on behalf of CCJFC;

· Consumed by a child or young person during Club activities;

· Brought into areas being used by children for Club activities;

· Used as part of any initiation, celebration, team bonding activity or other Club-related activity involving children.

Providing alcohol to a child or young person is a serious safeguarding concern and will be dealt with accordingly.

For adults, The FA does not prohibit alcohol generally; however, CCJFC may impose stricter requirements for its own activities.

No manager, coach, volunteer, committee member or other person responsible for children may:

· Consume alcohol before or during a football activity where they have responsibility for children;

· Attend a session or match while impaired by alcohol;

· Consume alcohol in the presence of children where doing so compromises safeguarding or the Club’s professional standards;

· Drive Club members or children while under the influence of alcohol;

· Allow alcohol to compromise their judgement, behaviour or ability to safeguard children.

Adults responsible for children must remain fit, alert and capable of fulfilling their safeguarding responsibilities at all times.

CCJFC recognises that some players and adults may legitimately require prescribed medication.

Prescription medication is not considered an illegal drug simply because it is a controlled or prescribed substance.

Players, parents/carers and Club officials should ensure that relevant medical information is provided to the Club where necessary for the safe participation of a child.

Medication must not be shared between players or Club members.

Where a medication may contain a substance prohibited under football’s anti-doping regulations, the individual should seek appropriate medical and anti-doping advice.

The FA provides guidance concerning prohibited substances and anti-doping responsibilities.

Any concern that a child or young person:

· Is being supplied with drugs;

· Is being supplied with alcohol;

· Is being encouraged to consume alcohol or drugs;

· Is being exposed to substance misuse by an adult involved in football;

· Is attending football activities under the influence of substances;

· Is being exploited in connection with drugs or alcohol;

must be treated as a safeguarding concern.

The Club’s Safeguarding Children Policy and procedures must be followed.

Concerns should be reported immediately to the Club Welfare Officer (CWO).

Where appropriate, the CWO will consult with the relevant County FA Designated Safeguarding Officer and/or statutory agencies.

The Club will not attempt to investigate serious safeguarding concerns itself where referral to an appropriate authority is required.

If a manager, coach or volunteer believes that a person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs during a Club activity, they should:

· Prioritise the safety and welfare of children.

· Do not confront the person aggressively.

· Do not attempt to physically search the individual.

· Do not attempt to test or identify the substance.

· Remove the individual from involvement in the activity where it is safe and appropriate to do so.

· Contact the Club Welfare Officer or appropriate Club official.

· Record the concern factually and objectively.

· Where there is an immediate risk to a child or anyone else, contact the emergency services where necessary.

· Follow the Club’s safeguarding procedures.

If suspected drugs are discovered during a Club activity or Presentation Evening:

· Do not touch, open, taste or otherwise handle the substance unnecessarily.

· Keep children away from the area.

· Inform the Club Welfare Officer or senior Club official.

· Record what has been observed.

· Where appropriate, contact the police or other relevant authority.

· Do not attempt to dispose of the substance yourself.

· Do not make accusations or allegations without appropriate evidence.

Where the matter involves a child or safeguarding concern, the Club’s safeguarding procedures must also be followed.

Drivers transporting children on behalf of CCJFC must be fit to drive and must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

No driver may transport children while:

· Over the legal alcohol limit;

· Impaired by illegal drugs;

· Impaired by medication;

· Otherwise unfit to drive safely.

The Club will take any concern regarding an impaired driver extremely seriously.

Where CCJFC organises an event at which alcohol may lawfully be available to adults, the Club will ensure that:

· Children are protected from exposure to inappropriate drinking;

· Alcohol is not supplied to children;

· Responsible behaviour is expected from all adults;

· No adult responsible for children consumes alcohol to a level that affects their ability to safeguard them;

· Venue licensing requirements are followed;

· Appropriate safeguarding arrangements remain in place.

Club social events must never involve alcohol as part of an initiation, hazing or team-building activity involving children or young people.

Players are expected to:

· Follow this policy;

· Never bring illegal drugs to Club activities;

· Never supply drugs to another person;

· Never consume alcohol during Club activities;

· Tell a trusted adult if they are worried about drugs or alcohol affecting themselves or someone else;

· Follow the Club’s Code of Conduct;

· Seek help where they are struggling with substance misuse.

The Club recognises that young people may need support rather than simply punishment.

Where appropriate, the Club will seek to work with the player and their parent/carer to promote their welfare and safety.

Parents and carers are expected to:

· Support this policy;

· Never supply alcohol or illegal drugs to a child in connection with Club activities;

· Ensure their child arrives fit and able to participate safely;

· Inform the Club where a substance-related issue may affect their child’s welfare or ability to participate;

· Avoid behaviour that could place children at risk;

· Cooperate with reasonable safeguarding enquiries.

All managers, coaches and volunteers are expected to:

· Model appropriate behaviour;

· Never provide alcohol or drugs to a child;

· Never attend football activities while impaired by alcohol or drugs;

· Remain capable of fulfilling their safeguarding responsibilities;

· Report concerns promptly;

· Maintain appropriate professional boundaries;

· Follow the Club’s safeguarding procedures;

· Cooperate with The FA, Birmingham FA, police or other statutory agencies where required.

Failure to comply may result in removal from Club duties and/or further action under the Club’s disciplinary procedures.

CCJFC will treat concerns about drugs and alcohol sensitively and confidentially.

Information will only be shared with those who need to know in order to:

· Safeguard a child or adult;

· Manage an immediate risk;

· Comply with legal or regulatory requirements;

· Refer a concern to the appropriate authority;

· Support the individual concerned.

Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where information must be shared to protect a child or another person from harm.

A breach of this policy may result in action under the Club’s disciplinary procedures.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

· Verbal or written warning;

· Removal from a Club activity;

· Temporary suspension from Club duties;

· Removal from a voluntary role;

· Withdrawal of permission to attend Club activities;

· Referral to Birmingham FA;

· Referral to The FA;

· Referral to the police or other statutory agency.

The Club will consider the circumstances of each case and will prioritise safeguarding and welfare.

The Club will not impose sanctions that conflict with The FA, Birmingham FA or relevant league regulations.

CCJFC believes that prevention and education are essential elements of addressing substance misuse.

Where appropriate, the Club will:

· Provide age-appropriate information to players;

· Encourage players to speak to a trusted adult;

· Signpost parents/carers towards appropriate support;

· Encourage managers and coaches to recognise safeguarding concerns;

· Promote healthy lifestyles and positive sporting behaviours.

The FA’s approach to social drugs includes education, counselling and treatment where appropriate, alongside its regulatory framework.

Anyone with a concern about drugs, alcohol or substance misuse involving a child or young person should report the concern promptly to their Team Manager in the first instance. They will liaise with the Chair and CWO.

· The FA Social Drugs Regulations

· The FA Anti-Doping Regulations

· The FA Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures

· The FA Safeguarding Children Regulations

· The FA Handbook