I believe my key role is to be clear about the club’s responsibilities when it comes to safeguarding and particularly running activities for children, young people and anyone that could be considered to be 'at risk'.
I help the club and its members recognise that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility
Yes- role is Adult Safeguarding Officer role. Trying to move on from very long and lengthy safeguarding policies to look at behaviours expected of members, and supporting vulnerable members for example around dementia/memory loss, mental health or mobility difficulties.
I currently hold the role but only as an interim position. I see the role as a link between the members and the committee to ensure that the club has suitable practices in place to support both the club and the members. I see it as a position that helps members identify other organisations that can offer support. We have close relationships with mental health groups in the area. We also have members who have undertaken mental health training so we can use those members for support if required.
I have been the welfare officer of my walking football club for over a year now and see it as an important part of the walking football community. Unlike my welfare officer roles within youth football, within the adult setting there are slightly different things to consider. It isn't so much about the safeguarding elements, but more mental health and wellbeing as well as being aware of any physical injuries that may cause distress to out players. As a club we also look to support those who want to play but are going through tough time financially so that they can still access football to help keep their spirits up. I am a Level 3 FA medical as well so lead on all things injury wise, and am a mental health nurse so offer a full range of support. I have provided mental health awareness training to Lincolnshire, and soon will be doing this at club level for those that want it.
