AFC Wimbledon recognises and accepts its responsibility for the safety and well-being of those children and young people who come within the care of the organisation and its staff.
We accept the responsibility in the belief that the welfare and protection of children and young people is paramount.
Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility, and all staff and volunteers have a duty to safeguard the welfare of children and other vulnerable groups.
The Club has in place comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures for all staff and volunteers, which meet the requirements of The EFL's guidance on Safeguarding Children and Young People, The FA Safeguarding Children Rules and Government legislation click here for both Children and Adult Safeguarding policies.
Safeguarding children and adults
The FA has also released a document entitled 'Keeping Football Safe and Enjoyable', which outlines the safeguarding work being done right across football.
Anyone with a concern about a child's welfare should contact Club Senior Safeguarding Manager Frank Thompson who is the first point of contact for the organisation.
Email frank.thompson@afcwimbledon.ltd.uk or by telephone via the club office during office hours on +44 (0)20 8547 3528.
Alternatively, if the matter relates to an academy player you can contact the Academy Designated Safeguarding Officer: Nicholas Wright nicholas.wright@afcwimbledon.ltd.uk or by telephone +44 (0)7593 444 931.
In an emergency concerns can also be reported to the local Police or Children's Social Care services or the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk.
Safeguarding strategic plan 2024-27
You can also read the Club's safeguarding strategy at the link below:
PREVENT statement
At AFC Wimbledon, we are committed to safeguarding people and communities from the threat of terrorism, by raising awareness and where possible minimising risks of radicalisation. Our approach is aligned to the Government's counter-terrorism strategy.
Prevent adopts an approach of early intervention to support individuals to challenge extremist views, stop likely radicalisation, terrorist ideology and behaviour. The Prevent agenda sits alongside the Club’s safeguarding responsibilities, as we recognise that individuals who are more likely to be targeted and radicalised often have additional vulnerabilities and may be identified through our safeguarding arrangements.
It could be nothing, but what if it’s not?
There are many factors that can make someone vulnerable to radicalisation. More than any one specific sign is the sense that something is not quite right. There could be a sign or a combination of signs that are increasing in intensity. It is really important that you pass any concern you may have on.
Radicalisers are increasingly operating online to target and influence vulnerable people via online gaming and social media platforms. We encourage everyone to be vigilant to anyone spending an increasing amount of time online and sharing extreme views via any online platforms.
British Values
The Club values freedom of speech whilst being mindful of the need to protect the vulnerable members of the Club. All concerns regarding freedom of speech will be considered under Human Rights.
The following British Values will be promoted through the behaviours, policies, and actions of the Club:
- Democracy
- Rule of law
- Individual liberty
- Mutual respect
- Tolerance
Training and awareness
Staff will receive training to be able to recognise inappropriate materials, symbols, and language, to:
- recognise the behaviours and language that should cause concern.
- deal with intolerance of faith, beliefs and differences and be aware of anti-British views.
Players in the Academy will be made aware of British Values through educational delivery, posters, and online resources. This will include being aware of potential harm to themselves and others and how to share these concerns.
A full copy of the AFC Wimbledon Prevent Policy can be accessed.
A copy of the AFC Wimbledon Prevent Risk Assessment can be accessed.