safeguarding at afc wimbledon foundation
safeguarding Statement
AFC Wimbledon Foundation is committed to creating a safe, positive and inclusive environment for everyone who engages with our programmes.
Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that everyone has the right to feel safe, be heard and be protected from harm.
We recognise that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.
Our policies, procedures, and staff training ensure that safeguarding is embedded across all Foundation activities including education, sport, health, community outreach, and volunteering.
Our Safeguarding Leadership Team
-
Trustee, Safeguarding Advocate
Paul Kilburn
AFCWF Trustee
paul.kilburn@afcwf.org.uk -
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Phil Hastings
CEO
phil.hastings@afcwf.org.uk -
designated safeguarding officer (dso)
Cheryl Gill
Head of Charitable Programmes cheryl.gill@afcwf.org.uk -
designated safeguarding officer (dso)
Andrew May
Head of Sport & Education andrew.may@afcwimbledonfoundation.org.uk
BEST PRACTICE
We continuously review and improve our safeguarding practices to ensure:
Safe recruitment - all delivery staff hold enhanced DBS checks. For more information click here.
Clear reporting - concerns can be raised quickly and acted upon appropriately.
Risk Management - activities are planned and delivered with safety at the forefront.
Training - all staff hold safeguarding certifications tailored to their responsibilities.
Partnership support - we collaborate with governing bodies i.e. Premier League, EFL, and maintain links with schools, and community partners.
Community Reporting
Safeguarding is more than a policy. It is embedded in our culture. We encourage everyone involved with AFC Wimbledon Foundation to play their part in creating an environment where concerns are taken seriously, individuals are respected, and safety and wellbeing remain our highest priorities.
If you have a safeguarding concern about a participant, member of staff, volunteer, or anyone involved in AFC Wimbledon Foundation activities, we encourage you to report it as soon as possible.
Click My Voice to report your concern.
Anyone can report a concern by clicking the link above or scanning the QR code below.
My Voice
My Voice is a confidential reporting platform which ensures your information is handled securely, respectfully, and in line with safeguarding best practice. Sharing a concern, no matter how small, helps us act early and keep people safe. We encourage you to raise a concern if you notice:
· Changes in behaviour, mood, or appearance
· Worries about wellbeing, safety, or home circumstances
· Something someone has said that causes concern
· Online behaviour that feels unsafe
· Any situation where someone may be at risk
If you’re unsure, report it. It’s always better to share a concern than to stay silent.
USEFUL RESOURCES
AFC Wimbledon Foundation recognises that it is good practice to reach out to other organisations whose main purpose is safeguarding.
Below is a list of resources you may find useful:
Working Together to Safeguard Children (DofE 2018)
The NSPCC’s Child Protection in Sport Unit. / NSPCC Keeping Children Safe / NSPCC Learning Safeguarding Resources
The FA Safeguarding Resources for Parents and Participants
England Football Safeguarding Hub
The FA's central safeguarding resource, including guidance for players, parents, coaches, clubs, and volunteers.
The FA: Parents and Carers Guidance
Practical advice for parents and carers, including welfare officer information, reporting concerns, and questions to ask your child's club.
Free FA Safeguarding Awareness Course for Parents & Carers
A free online course helping parents make informed choices about safe football environments for their children.
EFL Website - Safeguarding Children, Young People & Adults At Risk
More information about safeguarding in Football.
Need Support?
If you would like to speak to someone to report a safeguarding concern or require further guidance, please contact a member of our Safeguarding Leadership Team (shown above).
You can also contact our central enquiries team:
Telephone: 0208 974 5712 / Email: enquiries@afcwimbledon.org.uk
your support transforms lives
Your support helps us change lives. Every pound you give brings hope to children growing up in difficult circumstances and to adults facing disadvantage and isolation across South London. It means a safe space after school, someone to talk to, a coach who believes in them, and the chance to be part of something positive. You’re not just funding a programme - you’re helping someone feel seen, valued, and capable of more. With your help, we can break down barriers and open up brighter futures. Thank you for standing with us.
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