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SAFEGUARDING POLICY 

Last Updated: 28 June 2025

1. Our Commitment

NexAim Football is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care. We believe every participant has the right to a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. We have zero tolerance for any form of harm, abuse, discrimination, neglect, or intimidation.

2. Scope & Responsibilities

  • This policy applies to: all players (U7–U16), parents/guardians, staff, volunteers, contractors, and third parties involved in our programmes.

  • All adults working with children must understand and act in accordance with this policy, as well as our Code of Conduct.

  • Designated Safeguarding Lead (Naim Mejdoubi) is responsible for reporting concerns, liaising with local authorities, and reviewing all safeguarding practices.

3. Code of Conduct

All members of NexAim Football must adhere to standards that protect children and coaches alike:

For Coaches & Staff

  • Coach with respect, patience, and consideration at all times.

  • Address inappropriate or unsafe behaviour immediately and escalate concerns through the correct channels.

  • Maintain professionalism in tone, language, and behaviour.

  • Do not engage in physical contact unless essential and appropriate; when needed, do so with transparency and consent.

For Parents / Guardians

  • Support a positive environment and respect our coaches' authority.

  • Report any concerns or grievances through formal channels, not through confrontation.

  • Aggression, intimidation, or threats towards staff or players will result in an immediate permanent ban.

4. Parent & Spectator Behaviour

  • Unacceptable behaviours include: shouting threats, directing abuse toward children or staff, using foul language, or intimidating gestures.

  • Any threatening messages, verbal abuse, or physical intimidation will result in immediate and decisive action:

    • The individual will be removed from all communications, matches, and sessions.

    • A written notice of suspension will be issued with details of the required steps to return.

    • In serious cases, the matter will be reported to the police and any governing bodies involved.

5. Reporting & Incident Response

  • All safeguarding concerns (including threats or aggression) must be reported immediately to the DSL.

  • Managers, coaches, and volunteers are required to complete an Incident Report Form for review and action.

  • Where necessary, disclosure to external agencies (e.g., NSPCC, local social services, and police) will be made without delay, in line with legal duty and local safeguarding procedures. 

6. Safer Recruitment & Training

  • All staff and volunteers undergo pre-engagement checks, including DBS and references.

  • Ongoing training ensures coaches understand identification, prevention, and handling of safeguarding issues. Annual refresher sessions are mandatory.

7. Supervision & Ratios

  • We maintain appropriate coach-to-player ratios (minimum 1:5), with at least two adults present for sessions.

  • A second adult is always present during off-site or match activities to ensure safeguarding coverage and immediate support if needed.

8. Player Well‑Being

  • All players must have up-to-date medical and emergency contact information.

  • Any injury, disclosure, or welfare concern is recorded and the parent informed.

  • Emotional, mental, or behavioural issues are taken seriously and addressed with care and confidentiality.

9. Record-Keeping & Confidentiality

  • Safeguarding records remain secure and confidential.

  • Only share personal data with consent or if required for safeguarding purposes by law.

  • Secure disposal of all documentation after retention periods are met.

  • This policy is reviewed annually, or sooner if required by legal changes or serious incidents.

  • All staff receive and commit to understanding the policy and their safeguarding role each season.​​

10. Monitoring and Review

This Safeguarding Children Policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required, to ensure it remains current and effective.

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