FA Commissions new helpline
Following the information that continues to come to light regarding child abuse in football, the FA has commissioned a dedicated NSPCC helpline for adults who were victims of sexual abuse in their childhood within the football industry.
The launch of the free, independent helpline follows former footballers Andy Woodward, Steve Walters and Paul Stewart bravely speaking out about the abuse they suffered as young footballers.
The helpline, which will be staffed by NSPCC professionals, will offer support and guidance for adults who were victims of childhood sexual abuse within the game at all levels. This is regarded as a safe space for any further whistleblowing.
This helpline is available 24 hours a day on 0800 023 2642.
Oxford United applaud the FA for this move. The club itself has a robust welfare and safeguarding policy and procedure in place which is reviewed each year.
All of our policies are in place and are communicated to all parents/players and staff. The club recently passed a Capability Status on Safeguarding, as reviewed by the Premier League.
Managing Director Greig Box Turnbull said:
“We have been shocked and saddened by the terrible abuse former players have suffered and our thoughts are with them and their families. It has taken courage for them to come forward to speak out this week about their experiences as young footballers and we hope this will help them find some form of closure, while also allowing others to come forward and speak out.
“We have a detailed and thorough safe guarding process at the all levels of the football club, which is strictly adhered too.”