Welcome
Welcome to the September edition of ‘On The Ball’, the AFA’s safeguarding newsletter.
This month focuses on the importance of mental health and well being. Within this newsletter you can find information on spotting the signs of those who are struggling with their mental health , how to support them and who to contact for help. Furthermore there is information about training and CPD for your clubs , with the chance to get 20% an AFA course. .
The AFA really values your feedback and we would appreciate it if you would take a few moments of your time to fill in the survey below in relation to safeguarding within your club. This will help us to plan for events and ensure we are providing you with the right support throughout the season .
Please click on this link to complete the survey: https://forms.gle/acZPdMiGELNxKXJ56
As the season begins this weekend, I would like to wish you all the best of luck for your upcoming matches!
Sarah Robinson
AFA Designated Safeguarding Officer
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How a child's brain develops through early experiences
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Many cases of abuse , particularly sexual abuse are never reported. Some people feel very scared about reporting abuse. They may feel embarrassed, guilty or ashamed. Some people blame themselves or believe that they deserved to be abused. Others report abuse, but they aren’t taken seriously or believed. We want to ensure our clubs, volunteers and players are aware of the signs of abuse and know the right channels in which to report any concerns.
Do you know the signs of grooming?
Grooming is when someone builds a relationship, trust and emotional connection with a child or young person so they can manipulate, exploit and abuse them. It can be difficult to tell if a child or young person is being groomed – the signs aren't always obvious and may be hidden. Older children might behave in a way that seems to be "normal" teenage behaviour, masking underlying problems.
Some of the signs of grooming you might see include:
- being very secretive about how they're spending their time, including when online
- having an older boyfriend or girlfriend
- having money or new things like clothes and mobile phones that they can't or won't explain
- underage drinking or drug taking
- spending more or less time online or on their devices
- being upset, withdrawn or distressed
- sexualised behaviour, language or an understanding of sex that's not appropriate for their age
- spending more time away from home or going missing for periods of time.
A child or young person is unlikely to know they've been groomed. They might be worried or confused and less likely to speak to an adult they trust. If you have a concerned please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Fro more information on this topic visit the NSPCC Website: https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-child-abuse/types-of-abuse/grooming/#what-is
If you are currently experiencing abuse or have done so in the past there are people you can talk to:
The Police - 101
Samaritans - 116 123
The FA Case Management Team: 0800 083 5902
National Association for People Abused in Childhood - 0808 801 033
REPORTING CONCERNS
If you have a safeguarding concern make sure you report this as soon as possible to the Designated Safeguarding Officer , Sarah Robinson on 02 08733 2613 or safeguarding@amateur-fa.com. If a child or person is at immediate risk of harm call the police on 999.
Additionally if you would like some advise or are unsure about a situation , feel free to get in touch.
Remember, no action is not an option. Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility!
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