Our Commitment to Safeguarding

At Horley Lions FC, the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of every child involved in our club is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive football environment where children can enjoy the game, develop their skills, and build confidence.

Our safeguarding approach follows guidance provided by The Football Association (FA) and national child protection standards. We work to ensure that all players are protected from harm and that everyone involved in the club understands their responsibility in safeguarding young people.

Safeguarding Principles

Horley Lions FC believes that:

• The welfare of children is always the most important consideration.

• All children, regardless of age, ability, gender, background, or identity, have the right to participate in football in a safe environment.

• All safeguarding concerns must be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.

• Safeguarding is the responsibility of everyone involved in the club.

Safe Recruitment & Training

To help protect our players, Horley Lions FC ensures that:

• Coaches and volunteers working with children complete enhanced DBS checks where required.

• Coaches undertake FA safeguarding training and other relevant courses.

• All club staff and volunteers follow the FA Respect Code of Conduct.

• Adults working with players understand appropriate behaviour and professional boundaries.

Club Welfare Officer

Horley Lions FC has a designated Club Welfare Officer (CWO) responsible for safeguarding and child protection within the club.

The Welfare Officer’s role includes:

• Acting as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

• Ensuring the club follows FA safeguarding policies.

• Supporting players, parents, and volunteers where concerns arise.

• Reporting concerns to the relevant authorities when necessary.

If you have any concerns about a child’s welfare, please contact the Club Welfare Officer as soon as possible.

Recognising & Reporting Concerns

Safeguarding concerns may include:

• Bullying or intimidation

• Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse

• Neglect or unsafe situations

• Inappropriate behaviour by adults or other players

If you are worried about the safety or wellbeing of a child involved with the club:

1. Speak to the Club Welfare Officer.

2. Contact a coach or club committee member.

3. If a child is in immediate danger, contact emergency services.

All concerns will be taken seriously, handled sensitively, and acted upon appropriately.

External Safeguarding Support

If you wish to report a concern outside the club, you can contact national safeguarding organisations for advice and support.

NSPCC Helpline
Telephone: 0808 800 5000
Website: www.nspcc.org.uk

NSPCC Childline (for children)
Telephone: 0800 1111
Website: www.childline.org.uk

Respect & Safe Football Environment

Horley Lions FC promotes a culture of respect, inclusion, and fair play. Bullying, discrimination, abuse, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

By working together — players, parents, coaches, volunteers, and supporters — we can ensure that Horley Lions FC remains a safe and supportive place for young people to enjoy football.

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