Youth football safeguarding: what parents should know

Safeguarding is part of choosing where a child trains and plays.

Parents should check clubs, coaches, venues and welfare arrangements before a child attends.

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Ask who handles welfare

A grassroots club should be able to tell parents who the welfare or safeguarding contact is and how concerns can be raised.

Keep adults involved

For children, parents or guardians should stay involved when speaking to clubs, coaches and organisers. Avoid public posts with child contact details.

Know who to contact

Ballrz helps with discovery and clearer contact. It does not replace official FA or County FA safeguarding procedures, club welfare officers, emergency services or parental judgement.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a youth football club is safe?

Ask who runs the session, who the welfare contact is, how communication works, whether parents can attend and what safeguarding arrangements are in place.

What is a club welfare officer?

A club welfare officer is usually the person responsible for helping the club follow safeguarding responsibilities and respond to concerns.

Does Ballrz verify every club?

No. Parents should still check clubs and safeguarding arrangements directly before a child attends.

Useful next steps

Keep reading, or use Ballrz to look locally when you are ready.

Search local clubs Ballrz safeguarding information Questions to ask clubs For parents Browse all Changing Room guides