Designated Safeguarding Officer

Designated Safeguarding Officer (Safer Sport Officer) Avro Football Club – Voluntary Position Avro Football Club is a thriving community football club with a strong commitment to player development and safeguarding excellence. Our First Team competes at Step 4 of the National League System in the Northern Premier League, representing semi‑professional football at its finest. Our Women's Team participates in the Greater Manchester Women’s Football League, while our youth squads—including U21, U18, and U17 teams—compete in the North West Youth Alliance and North West U21 Development League, providing clear progression pathways into semi‑professional football. The Opportunity We are seeking a dedicated and proactive Designated Safeguarding Officer (Safer Sports Officer) to join our Safer Sports Team. This pivotal role will lead safeguarding initiatives across all our teams—First Team, Women’s, Reserves, U21, U18, and U17—ensuring the highest standards of protection and welfare for everyone involved with the club. You will be instrumental in implementing and maintaining the safeguarding licensing requirements and standards mandated by the Football Association for clubs within the National League System. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals at various stages of their safeguarding career – whether you’re beginning your journey in safeguarding and seeking valuable hands‑on experience, or you’re an experienced professional looking to contribute your expertise to a community organisation through volunteering. Key Responsibilities Policy Development and Implementation Develop, implement, and regularly review safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure full compliance with current legislation and guidance Ensure all policies remain relevant, effective, and fit for purpose within the football environment Compliance and Standards Work in accordance with National League System (NLS) and Football Association safeguarding standards, rules, and audited practices Ensure the club meets and maintains all safeguarding standards required for licensing Monitor and ensure coaches and staff remain compliant with required courses and qualifications Case Management Record, manage, and investigate all reported safeguarding concerns with professionalism and sensitivity Appropriately manage the safeguarding caseload, ensuring timely and effective responses Maintain accurate and confidential records in line with data protection requirements Advisory and Support Provide expert advice and support to all staff, volunteers, and associates regarding safeguarding concerns and queries Act as the primary point of contact for safeguarding matters across the club Support the Safer Sports Team in conducting annual team audits Operational Duties Attend First Team matchdays periodically to maintain visibility and oversight (not required at every home game) Lead on matters relating to U18 senior appearances and U18 players participating in senior football Ensure appropriate protocols are followed for young players transitioning to senior teams What We’re Looking For Level 1 or Level 2 safeguarding qualification (children and/or adults), or currently working towards this qualification Strong understanding of safeguarding principles and best practices Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality Strong organisational skills and attention to detail Commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive environment FA Safeguarding Qualification (full support will be provided to complete this if not already held) Previous experience in a safeguarding role, preferably within a sports environment Knowledge of the National League System and FA regulations Experience working with children, young people, and vulnerable adults What We Offer While this is a voluntary position, we value your commitment and will reimburse all reasonable and out-of‑pocket expenses. You will gain valuable experience in safeguarding within a semi‑professional football environment, work alongside a dedicated Safer Sports Team, and make a meaningful difference to the safety and wellbeing of players, staff, and supporters across our club. How to Apply To apply, please submit your CV along with a covering letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this position toVolunteering@avrofc.co.ukor via LinkedIn by 15th December 2025. For an informal discussion about this role, please contact our Head of Safer Sport, Louise Docherty, atLouise.Docherty@avrofc.co.uk. Please note that interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis prior to the application deadline. #J-18808-Ljbffr