WFC SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE

The Westmeadows FC is committed to promoting and protecting the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people who participate in AFL Football at any level through activities, programs, services and /or use of facilities by fostering a culture where children and young people feel safe and welcome. Everyone who plays Australian Football has the right to Be Safe, Feel Safe, Play Safe.

Situations where people simply feel uncomfortable at footy are things that every Committee and Club volunteer must take very seriously. Having any role at any grassroots footy club is important to help people enjoy their time whilst involved at the club and being connected within the community.

Keeping Children and Young People safe is the number one priority we have as a community – and nothing is different at footy clubs.

As a result, we have provided a wealth of information to help clubs navigate the complexity associated with this critical topic. Don’t be daunted by the range of information provided. Simply checking out the website is a good start. Remember - any action you take is better than taking no action.

Check out the links below for policies, editable templates, posters and fact sheets to help you educate your community about Safeguarding Children and Young People.

Our Westmeadows Football Club Child Safeguarding Officer is available.

ROLE Club Child Safeguarding Officer (CSO) REPORTS TO Club Committee

ABOUT THE ROLE The CSO role is a volunteer role appointed by the Clubs’ Committee. The role will serve as the first point of contact for club community members and others who have concerns about a child or young person within the club and provide advice and support to assist that person with making a report. The CSO will champion the safeguarding message and work with the Committee to practically implement the policies and procedures.

For anyone seeking external advise :

TRAINING RESOURCES Free training and resources to support this role are available and provided by the AFL and other organisations, including: • AFL Safeguarding Webinars and Safeguarding Education Program. • Play by the Rules Child Protection and Safeguarding course