The safety and welfare of children is paramount, so we are constantly working to ensure that every child has a positive experience of playing the game.

As part of our efforts to keep football safe and enjoyable for all, we carry out validation visits to ensure that clubs are meeting their commitment to safeguarding by only allowing appropriately qualified individuals to work with young people.

Over the coming months a sample of clubs across the county will be selected for a safeguarding validation visit. During these visits our staff will meet with coaches to confirm that they:

1. Are listed on the FA Whole Game System
2. Have a valid FA DBS, less than 3 years old
3. Have an in date FA Safeguarding Certification

Validation visits are also an opportunity for us to meet and engage with coaches, officials and parents to ensure that all are fully aware of the safeguarding processes in football and know what they should do if they have a concern.

Sharon Porter, Designated Safeguarding Officer at Middlesex FA said:

“Safeguarding is not just about ensuring coaches have the necessary qualifications and DBS checks. While these are important preventative measures, they only form part of the strategy to protect young people involved in the game. 

Ensuring that parents and players understand the safeguarding processes that are in place is also vital, so that they know where to get help should an issue arise. Validation visits allow us to engage with clubs across both of these areas.”