Safeguarding Officer - Women's 1st Team

About the Safeguarding Team:

Our dedicated team is committed to creating a secure and supportive environment, ensuring that everyone involved with our club feels safe and valued.

At the Academy, we implement robust safeguarding policies tailored to protect our young athletes. We conduct regular risk assessments and provide tailored training for coaches and staff, focusing on recognising and addressing potential safeguarding concerns.

Working closely with other teams, we ensure that safeguarding measures are seamlessly integrated into all activities. Our aim is to protect our young talents so they can thrive on and off the pitch in a nurturing environment.

We are seeking a dedicated Part-Time Women’s Designated Safeguarding Officer to act as the lead safeguarding contact for Sunderland Women’s First Team. This role involves responding to safeguarding concerns, supporting staff and players, delivering training, and working closely with external agencies to ensure a safe environment. The position offers flexible hours to fit around your commitments.

You will act as the first point of contact for safeguarding concerns, responding promptly to queries, concerns, and allegations. You will escalation serious issues to the appropriate agencies, maintain confidential records, and participate in multi-agency meetings. Building relationships with external safeguarding providers and promoting awareness within the team are essential. You will also support training delivery and provide guidance to staff on safeguarding matters, helping to uphold the club’s policies and procedures.

The ideal candidate will have experience in safeguarding adults, with ongoing professional development in safeguarding practices. Knowledge of adult safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance is essential, along with understanding risks like abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. You should have experience in risk assessments, case management, and liaising with agencies such as Social Care, Police, or NHS services. Strong communication skills, a person-centred approach, and the ability to handle sensitive information professionally are vital.

The role requires evening and weekend availability in accordance with Women’sFirstteamschedules, including at timesin-person or on-call attendance at home/away fixtures in the capacity of Designated Safeguarding Lead.

An Enhanced DBS from Sunderland AFC is required.