As we move to the end of the season, we are aware clubs will be starting to prepare for affiliation for the 2024/25 season.

To aid with this process, please see below for a few updates in relation to safeguarding requirements, particularly for Open-Age Football, that are coming into effect for the 2024/25 season. It is pivotal that clubs review this information and action promptly to ensure that they are compliant in order to affiliate. 

Safeguarding Requirements for Clubs with Open-Age Teams

The most notable change for the 2024/25 season, is relating to Open-Age Teams. In order to affiliate for the 2024/25 season, clubs with open-age teams will be required to ensure that their Club Welfare Officer (including Assistants), Team Manager/Coach (including Assistants) and Team Medic/First Aider (including Assistants), complete the new Player Welfare Course. The Player Welfare Course is free and takes 45 minutes to complete. If there are U18s registered to Open-Age Teams, the same Officials will also require a FA DBS Check.

Safeguarding Requirements for Clubs with Youth Teams 

As a reminder, Clubs with Youth Teams require their Club Welfare Officer (including Assistants), Team Manager/Coach (including Assistants) and Team Medic/First Aider (including Assistants) to have a FA DBS Check and complete the Safeguarding Children Course.

Safeguarding Requirements for Clubs with Disability Teams

Please see below for the safeguarding requirements for Clubs with Disability Teams. It is mandatory for the Club Welfare Officer (including Assistants), Team Manager/Coach (including Assistants) and Team Medic/First Aider (including Assistants), to complete a FA DBS Check if there are U18s registered to Open-Age Teams.

All safeguarding courses can be found via this link to the England Football Learning website.  

To view Middlesex FA’s Affiliation Guide for the 2024/25 Season, please CLICK HERE

If you have any questions upon reviewing this information, please contact safeguarding@middlesexfa.com.