1. Policy Statement
Falmouth Town AFC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all adults at risk involved in football activities. The club believes that every adult has the right to participate in football in a safe, positive, and inclusive environment, free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, discrimination, and harm.
The club recognises its responsibility to take appropriate action where concerns exist regarding the welfare of an adult at risk.
2. Purpose
This policy aims to:
- Protect adults at risk who participate in club activities.
- Provide staff, volunteers, coaches, and officials with guidance on safeguarding responsibilities.
- Promote good practice and a culture of respect and inclusion.
- Ensure concerns are reported and managed appropriately.
3. Definition of an Adult at Risk
An adult at risk is a person aged 18 or over who:
- Has care and support needs.
- Is experiencing, or is at risk of, abuse or neglect.
- Is unable to protect themselves from abuse, neglect, or exploitation because of those needs.
4. Types of Abuse
Abuse can take many forms, including:
Physical Abuse
- Assault
- Hitting, pushing, or inappropriate restraint
Emotional or Psychological Abuse
- Intimidation
- Threats
- Humiliation
- Bullying
Sexual Abuse
- Unwanted sexual contact
- Sexual harassment
- Inappropriate comments or behaviour
Financial or Material Abuse
- Theft
- Fraud
- Exploitation of money or property
Neglect and Acts of Omission
- Ignoring medical or physical care needs
- Failure to provide appropriate support
Discriminatory Abuse
- Abuse based on disability, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or age
Online Abuse
- Cyberbullying
- Harassment through social media or digital platforms
5. Club Responsibilities
The club will:
- Promote a safe environment for all participants.
- Appoint a Club Welfare Officer.
- Ensure safeguarding concerns are taken seriously.
- Provide safeguarding information to members and volunteers.
- Follow national governing body safeguarding procedures.
- Work with statutory agencies where required.
6. Codes of Conduct
All club members must:
- Treat everyone with dignity and respect.
- Maintain appropriate boundaries.
- Use inclusive language.
- Challenge discriminatory behaviour.
- Report welfare concerns promptly.
- Never abuse their position of trust.
7. Reporting Concerns
Any concern relating to an adult at risk should be reported immediately to:
Club Welfare Officer: Sue Little
Telephone: 07768331353
Email: susanlittle546@btinternet.com
If there is an immediate risk of harm:
- Contact emergency services by dialling 999.
- Inform the Club Welfare Officer as soon as possible.
All reports will be treated seriously and confidentially, with information shared only on a need-to-know basis.
8. Confidentiality
Information relating to safeguarding concerns will be handled sensitively and in accordance with data protection legislation. Confidentiality cannot be guaranteed where sharing information is necessary to protect an individual from harm.
9. Recruitment and Training
The club will:
- Follow safe recruitment procedures.
- Carry out appropriate DBS checks where required.
- Ensure coaches and volunteers complete relevant safeguarding training.
- Maintain records of safeguarding qualifications and checks.
10. Whistleblowing
Any member who believes poor practice or abuse is occurring is encouraged to report their concerns without fear of victimisation or retaliation.
11. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislation, guidance, or club circumstances change.
Approved by: Dale McIntosh
Position: Chairperson
Date: 11 October 2026
