English football is set to unite again over the above weekend to promote Play Safe – a countrywide campaign to focus attention of 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 across every level of English football, including the Premier League, EFL, Barclays Women’s Super League and Barclays Women’s Championship, and across the grassroots game.

This season we are asking 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 to share 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.

These messages are reflected in the visuals on this page, which are examples of the various digital and print resources being distributed to every County FA, league and club in England. Captain’s armbands will be worn at various levels of the game over the weekend. Head coaches/managers are also being asked to wear Play Safe pin badges to show their support.

It’s all part of football in England uniting to create an ever-safer culture across the game at every level.

Alongside Club and Leagues, Essex County FA look forward to promoting the Play Safe campaign – 30th September – 1st October 2023,  to continue to spotlight the importance of recognising and implementing safeguarding.

Many factors constitute effective safeguarding, a key message being, everyone recognising potential concerns.  As a parent/carer, support is available via the free FA Parents & Carers online workshop and additionally via the Essex FA website Safeguarding and Welfare pages  The NSPCC also provide details on key areas to support parents and carers in recognising possible signs of concern.  Please click here to visit the NSPCC.

A key message for this Season’s Play Safe is Everyone Everywhere, something we can all be involved in, making a positive impact on the football experience.  Across the game, lets use this opportunity to celebrate the grassroots game, promote the Play Safe Campaign and sign the Play Safe Pledge. 

Sign The Play Safe Pledge