At Horley Lions FC, the safety and wellbeing of every child involved in our club is our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, positive, and inclusive environment where all players can enjoy football, develop their skills, and feel respected and supported.

As a youth grassroots football club, we follow best practice guidance to ensure that all children are protected and that everyone involved in the club understands their responsibilities in maintaining a safe environment.

Our Commitment

Horley Lions FC is committed to:

• Providing a safe and welcoming environment for all players.

• Ensuring that children’s welfare is always the first priority.

• Promoting a culture of respect, fairness, and inclusion.

• Taking any safeguarding concerns seriously and acting on them appropriately.

• Ensuring that all volunteers and coaches understand their safeguarding responsibilities.

Safe Recruitment

All coaches, managers, and volunteers who work with players at Horley Lions FC are required to:

• Complete an enhanced DBS check where appropriate.

• Complete relevant safeguarding training.

• Follow the club’s safeguarding policies and procedures.

• Adhere to the FA Respect Code of Conduct.

This helps ensure that the adults working with our players are suitable, responsible, and properly trained.

Our Welfare Officer

Horley Lions FC has a dedicated Club Welfare Officer responsible for safeguarding and child welfare within the club.

The Welfare Officer’s role is to:

• Act as the first point of contact for any safeguarding or welfare concerns.

• Ensure the club follows appropriate safeguarding policies.

• Support players, parents, and volunteers if any concerns arise.

• Work with relevant organisations if further action is required.

If you have any concerns about the welfare of a child at our club, please contact our Club Welfare Officer in confidence.

Respect & Positive Behaviour

We expect all players, coaches, parents, and spectators to help create a positive and respectful football environment. Abuse, discrimination, bullying, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.

Everyone involved with Horley Lions FC is expected to follow the Respect Codes of Conduct to ensure that football remains safe and enjoyable for all.

Reporting a Concern

If you are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child involved with Horley Lions FC, please report it as soon as possible.

You can speak to:

• The Club Welfare Officer

• A coach or team manager

• A club committee member

All concerns will be treated seriously, sensitively, and confidentially.

Working Together to Protect Young Players

Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone involved in the club. By working together — players, parents, coaches, volunteers, and supporters — we can ensure Horley Lions FC remains a safe and supportive place for young people to enjoy football.

If you would like more information about our safeguarding policies, please contact the club directly.

Club Welfare Officer: