English football is set to unite again this weekend to promote Play Safe – a countrywide campaign to focus attention on the vital importance of safeguarding in our national game.
Led by The Football Association, the Play Safe campaign is endorsed by the NSPCC and will be supported this weekend at every level of English football, including in the EFL, Premier League, Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship, and across the grassroots game.
This season we are encouraging everyone, everywhere – clubs and leagues at every level of the game, and individuals if they wish – to tell us what they are planning to do to make a difference over the Play Safe weekend, and sharing this via an online Play Safe Pledge.
The FA’s Survivor Support and Safeguarding Advisory Group (FASSSAG) continues to support Play Safe: “Creating safe environments in every football setting is a collective responsibility. It’s really important that every single person in football – no matter if they’re actively involved or on the sidelines – understands that they have an ongoing role to play.
"Knowing how to act on any concerns is vital and Play Safe is a key way to raise awareness so that everyone is vigilant and knows what to do if they become aware of any inappropriate behaviour.”
This year’s Play Safe weekend focuses on the safeguarding role EVERYONE has to play – coach, player, parent/carer, spectator or volunteer – to keep children and young people safe, no matter what the football setting.
Everyone, everywhere, everytime is encouraged to watch, listen, talk and act if they have any safeguarding concerns.
Albion supporters can find out more about the club's own safeguarding team - 'Baggies Safe' - here.