In October, to promote The FA’s Play Safe campaign, we collaborated on the annual Play Safe Conference, in association with Brighton & Hove Albion, at the American Express Stadium. 

Endorsed by the NSPCC, The FA’s Play Safe Weekend took place on the Saturday 30 September and Sunday 1 October, with the aim being to focus attention on the need to make safeguarding a priority for everyone in football.

We were proud to support Play Safe by making an online Play Safe Pledge, with our board of directors, staff and volunteers, pledging to actively support all of our clubs so they can provide safe and enjoyable football for everyone.

The event at the Amex saw Duke Harrison-Hunter as the keynote speaker, who shared his remarkable story as a man who went from a gang member to mentor for young people. 

It was a truly fascinating insight into how he turned his life around and now uses those experiences to help others.

Duke’s story also served to highlight what can go wrong if the principles of safeguarding are not followed. 

It brought alive the Play Safe message of EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE, EVERYTIME and the fact that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Speaking on the event, our Safeguarding Manager, Annette Madden, said: “The Play Safe campaign once again allowed us to bring the spotlight on the importance of safeguarding in football, and how we all play a part in making the game safe For ALL.

“I’d like to extend my personal thanks to Duke and Brighton & Hove Albion for such a thought-provoking evening." 

For more information on the Play Safe weekend please contact: 

Safeguarding
T: 01903 768578
E: Safeguarding@SussexFA.com