Children Come First
AFC Waltham is committed to creating a safe, positive and enjoyable football environment for every child.
The welfare, well-being, and safety of children are always our highest priority.
We believe every child has the right to:
- enjoy football safely
- be treated with respect
- feel included and supported
- play without fear of intimidation, bullying or abuse
- develop at their own pace in a positive environment
AFC Waltham is committed to safeguarding children and promoting their welfare at all times.
Our Commitment
AFC Waltham will:
- provide a safe and welcoming football environment
- place the needs of children above results or performance
- promote respect, inclusion and positive behaviour
- ensure all adults working with children are appropriately vetted and trained
- respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns
- challenge bullying, discrimination, abuse or poor behaviour
- encourage children to speak openly if they feel worried or uncomfortable
- follow FA safeguarding guidance and grassroots football best practice
Safeguarding Principles
At AFC Waltham:
- children should enjoy football
- mistakes are part of learning
- positive encouragement is more effective than criticism
- all children should feel valued regardless of ability
- football should help build confidence, friendships and wellbeing
We do not tolerate:
- abusive behaviour
- bullying
- discrimination
- intimidation
- aggressive touchline behaviour
- inappropriate language towards children, referees or other adults
Recruitment & Suitability of Adults
AFC Waltham will ensure that adults working with children:
- complete appropriate DBS checks where required
- undertake FA safeguarding training
- follow the club’s codes of conduct
- maintain appropriate professional boundaries
- understand their responsibilities towards children
Photography & Social Media
AFC Waltham recognises the importance of safeguarding children online.
The club will:
- seek appropriate parental consent for photography where required
- use images responsibly and appropriately
- avoid sharing personal information about children publicly
- ensure social media remains respectful and child-focused
Any concerns regarding online behaviour or inappropriate communication should be reported immediately.
Reporting Concerns
Any safeguarding concern involving a child’s welfare should be taken seriously.
Concerns may include:
- bullying
- inappropriate behaviour
- abuse
- neglect
- unsafe environments
- worrying changes in behaviour
- concerns regarding adults working with children
Concerns should be reported to the Club Welfare Officer as soon as possible.
Safeguarding Contact
📧 safeguarding@afcwaltham.co.uk
If a child is in immediate danger or at risk of harm, contact emergency services or the police immediately.
Respect & Behaviour
AFC Waltham supports a positive grassroots football culture built on:
- respect
- encouragement
- enjoyment
- inclusion
- teamwork
We ask all players, parents, coaches and spectators to help create the environment we want children to experience.
Football should belong to children.
No shouting.
No unnecessary pressure.
Just football the way it should be.
AFC Waltham
The Whippets 🟢⚪️
E17 | Est. 2026
Football for those serious about enjoying the game.