Child Protection in Soccer

The protection of under-age players from any form of abuse must be a priority for all
those involved in soccer.

If under age players are at risk of harm, it is the duty of those in a position of
responsibility to take immediate steps to remove the risk and to ensure that all necessary
procedures are undertaken in accordance with statutory guidelines.

The detection and prevention of child abuse depends on the co-operation of all
concerned. The following points are central to the success of this effort:
Acceptance by all involved with children that abuse, whether physical,
psychological or sexual, severely damages children and must be confronted;
Knowledge of the behavioural and physical indicators of various forms of
abuse;
Knowledge of the appropriate action and response to be taken when abuse is
revealed or detected;
Vigilance and avoidance of all situations conductive to risk;
Open, trusting and co-operative relationships within the club, with
parents/guardians and others concerned with children’s progress or welfare;
Willingness to co-operate with the Statutory Authorities (Gairdai, Health
Boards), in relation to sharing information about child protection concerns at
any time.