The FA have implemented new guidelines for safeguarding 16 and 17 year old players that play in adult teams.

Recently clubs received a letter from the FA outlining the club’s responsibilities and what actions need to be taken in order to implement these changes. 

The East Riding County FA are beginning the process support to support clubs and leagues in understanding and ensuring that they are acknowledging their responsibility for safeguarding 16 and 17 year olds players. 

If your club has an adult team that has Under 18’s that are registered at any time during the season, you are responsible for ensuring that the correct safeguarding in place. 

This will require all coaches/managers/medics that are working with Under 18’s in adult football to complete an FA DBS Check and have knowledge of the FA’s Safeguarding Children Policy. 

As a County FA we also want to make sure that all those aged 16 and 17 that play in adult football are clear about what to do if they have a concern. The FA have provided some guidance for players of that age. 

The East Riding County FA is committed to providing a safe environment for all to play football in. Steve Lazenby is the County FA’s Designated Safeguarding Officer who will be supporting clubs and leagues to ensure that these requirements are being implemented. 

If you have any questions around these changes, DBS checks or safeguarding in general, you can contact Steve Lazenby on 01482 221158 or via email

Next Steps 

• The County FA have already began working with the leagues to identify those teams that have 16 and 17 years olds currently registered which has allowed them to identify the coaches and clubs that are affected by these changes.

• The CFA Designated Safeguarding Officer will be in touch with those that need to take action and share the relevant information with them on how to obtain a FA DBS Check.

• Clubs and Leagues can share the FA Guidance to 16 & 17 year old players and the Know Your Rights document (which can be found below)

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS:

FA Safeguarding Children Policy
FA DBS Checks – Information and FAQ’s
FA Information and Guidance for 16 and 17 year olds
FA Know Your Rights in Football Leaflet: 16 and 17 year olds 
Safeguarding Adults in Disability Football