What is the story about?
What's Happening?
English football is uniting to promote child safeguarding during the Play Safe Weekend on September 27 and 28, 2025. The campaign, endorsed by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), aims to give young people a voice in football. The theme, 'Small Talk is Bigger Than You Think,' encourages adults in football to engage in open conversations with children, listen actively, and create safe spaces. The initiative is supported across all levels of English football, including the Premier League and grassroots games. Clubs are encouraged to display Play Safe banners, use logos on youth team kits, and wear Play Safe armbands. The FA has also introduced 'Bib Voting,' a non-verbal activity to help children share feedback.
Why It's Important?
The Play Safe campaign highlights the critical role of safeguarding in sports, emphasizing the need for adults to be vigilant and proactive in protecting young athletes. By fostering open communication, the initiative aims to prevent child sexual abuse and ensure a safe environment for children in football. This effort is crucial as it empowers children to speak up and be heard, potentially preventing abuse and promoting a culture of safety and inclusivity. The campaign's success could serve as a model for other sports and organizations, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding in youth activities.
What's Next?
The FA encourages clubs and individuals to participate in the Play Safe campaign by completing online safeguarding awareness training. This training aims to provide greater insight into safeguarding practices and empower more adults to take an active role in protecting children. The ongoing support from the football community and the introduction of new activities like Bib Voting are expected to enhance the campaign's impact, ensuring that safeguarding remains a priority in football.
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