On 3 April 2017, The FA launched its first online learning course developed specifically for committee members of grassroots football clubs.

The Safeguarding for Committee Members course allows learners to reflect on the safeguards already established in their club while encouraging them to work with their colleagues to keep their club safe and fun for under 18s.

It revises basic knowledge, such as who in the club needs a criminal record check (CRC), how to recruit safely, how and when to report concerns and when to 'blow the whistle.'
It also explains the role of the Whole Game System, the Safeguarding Checklist, the value of a youth forum and useful helplines such as Childline.

It is a requirement that the club secretary, club chairperson and club welfare officer complete this course before affiliation can be awarded for a club in the 2017/18 season.

This will increase to a minimum of four officers, and include the club treasurer, for affiliation periods from the 2018/19 season onwards.

Other club officials may also access the course, although for them it is entirely optional at this stage.

It takes approximately 45 minutes to complete, and you will be able to download a certificate to demonstrate successful completion.

With 7,000 learners already completing the course, feedback showed that 91% were committed to doing something differently either now, in three months or in six months. That’s over 6,000 people committing to making their clubs safer.

One learner commented on the value of the course:

“Useful and worthwhile training to help reflect and re-focus, to ensure we stay on top of safeguarding.”

A second learner emphasised the importance of a role specific course:

“A very good course. I did wonder what extra I could learn from this that I didn't learn on the Safeguarding Workshop but the change of emphasis to that of the role of a committee member made me see the bigger picture.”

LOG IN WITH YOUR FAN AND ACCESS THE COURSE