English football unites this weekend to promote Play Safe – a countrywide campaign to focus attention on the vital importance of safeguarding in our national game.
Led by The Football Association, the Play Safe campaign is endorsed by the NSPCC and is supported this week across every level of English football, including in the EFL, Premier League, Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship, and across the grassroots game.
This season EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE – clubs and leagues at every level of the game, (and individuals if they wish) – has been urged to tell the FA what they are doing to make a difference over the Play Safe week and to share this via an online Play Safe Pledge. (https://thefa.jotform.com/232111952202845)
The FA’s Survivor Support and Safeguarding Advisory Group (FASSSAG) continues to support Play Safe: “Creating safe environments in every football setting is a collective responsibility. It’s really important that every single person in football – no matter if they’re actively involved or on the sidelines – understands that they have an ongoing role to play. Knowing how to act on any concerns is vital and Play Safe is a key way to raise awareness so that everyone is vigilant and knows what to do if they become aware of any inappropriate behaviour.”
This year’s Play Safe week focuses on the safeguarding role EVERYONE has to play – coach, player, parent/carer, spectator or volunteer – to keep children and young people safe, no matter what the football setting.
EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE, EVERYTIME is encouraged to WATCH, LISTEN, TALK and ACT if they have any safeguarding concerns.