The FA seeks to do everything it can to support a safe and enjoyable framework for football.

This means, if standards ever fall short with poor practice or unacceptable behaviour, there’s a framework in place to make sure The FA can deal with it. By reporting a concern you can help The FA make sure that the youth game stays safe and strong.

Anyone who has a concern about the welfare of a child or the behaviour of an adult towards a child or young person under-18 years of age in football, is required to refer it to The FA Safeguarding team. The team is staffed by professionals who are experienced in dealing with these concerns.

Referring a concern can be done via your club, league or County FA - all will have a designated safeguarding officer (DSO). Alternatively, you can email The FA directly via safeguarding@thefa.com.

If the matter is urgent and you cannot contact your club or County FA designated safeguarding officer, you can call The NSPCC 24-hour helpline on 0808 800 5000 - or if it is an emergency because a child or children are at immediate risk, then call the police or children’s social care in your area.

If you are concerned that someone may be behaving inappropriately or seeking to groom a child in an online environment, then please use the CEOP reporting button that will take you directly to the team at the National Crime Agency, as well as informing your County FA or The FA via safeguarding@thefa.com.

The FA wants you to feel confident in football and to know that your child will have fun and be safe.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Non-action is not an option.

If you have any safeguarding queries or concerns please contact the County Welfare Officer:

County Welfare Officer
T: 01903 768578
M: 07525 667076
E: Safeguarding@SussexFA.com