Safeguarding Adults in Sport Policy

Club Safeguarding Officer

Name: Niall Clarke

Role: First point of contact for concerns about adult welfare, misconduct, discrimination, or mental health issues within the club.

Our Commitment

We are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all adults involved in our club. We fully endorse and implement safeguarding practices that protect individuals from abuse, harm, neglect, discrimination, and exploitation.

Scope

This policy applies to:

• All adult players (aged 18+)

• Coaches, managers, and officials

• Volunteers and committee members

• Spectators and visiting teams

Key Principles

Dignity & Respect: Everyone has the right to be treated fairly and with courtesy.

Protection from Harm: We take proactive steps to prevent abuse, harassment, and exploitation.

Mental Health Support: We recognise and respond to mental health concerns with compassion and confidentiality.

Equal Access: We do not tolerate discrimination on any basis, including age, gender, race, disability, religion, or sexuality.

Empowerment: Adults are supported to make informed choices and maintain control over their personal affairs.

Club Responsibilities

1. Promote safeguarding awareness across all club activities.

2. Ensure that all staff and volunteers who engage with vulnerable adults are appropriately trained.

3. Respond promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concern.

4. Maintain records of safeguarding reports securely and confidentially.

5. Comply with the relevant laws and FAW safeguarding standards.

The Role of the Safeguarding Officer

Niall Clarke will:

• Act as the first point of contact for concerns or disclosures.

• Handle reports sensitively and appropriately.

• Liaise with external agencies and governing bodies when necessary.

• Maintain confidentiality and data protection standards.

• Ensure safeguarding procedures are reviewed and updated annually.

Reporting a Concern

If you are concerned about your own safety or the safety of someone else:

Contact: Niall Clarke (CSO)

Email: seniors@newportcorinthiansafc.org 

If there is immediate danger or risk, call 999.

You may also contact the FAW Safeguarding Team directly.

Training & Awareness

We require all relevant personnel to complete:

• Adult safeguarding awareness training

• Equality, diversity & inclusion training

• Mental health awareness (where appropriate)

• Training must be refreshed every two years or following any safeguarding incident.

Policy Review

This policy is reviewed annually by the Club Committee or following:

• A serious safeguarding incident

• Changes to legislation or FAW guidance

• Structural or operational changes at the club

Legal Disclaimer

This safeguarding policy is intended to provide general guidance and reflect best practices in line with Football Association of Wales (FAW) standards and national safeguarding frameworks. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be interpreted as a substitute for legal counsel or statutory safeguarding responsibilities. Newport Corinthians AFC shall not be held liable for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this policy. All safeguarding incidents or concerns must be dealt with appropriately and may require escalation to statutory authorities.