The Purpose
The Academy Player Welfare Officer plays an important role in creating a safe, supportive and positive environment for Academy players and their families. The role provides a visible safeguarding and player care presence across training sessions and match days, supporting the wellbeing and development of young players both on and off the pitch.
The postholder will work closely with players, parents, coaches and the wider safeguarding team to ensure concerns are identified, managed and reported appropriately, while helping to embed a culture of care, wellbeing and personal development throughout the Academy.
This role will also support the delivery of the Academy’s player care programme, including life-skills education, wellbeing support and positive engagement with players and parents.
The Role
- Act as a visible and approachable safeguarding and player wellfare presence during Academy training sessions and fixtures.
- Support the wellbeing, welfare and personal development of Academy players.
- Build positive relationships with players, parents/carers and staff to promote a safe and supportive environment.
- Provide day-to-day support and guidance to players around wellbeing, behaviour, personal development and welfare matters.
- Deliver and support player care and life-skills workshops and education sessions across the Academy programme.
- Support coaches and multidisciplinary staff in promoting positive player wellbeing and safeguarding practices.
- Identify, respond to and appropriately report safeguarding or welfare concerns to the wider safeguarding team in line with Club policies and procedures.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records relating to safeguarding and player welfare concerns.
- Support the implementation of safeguarding policies, procedures and safer working practices across the Academy.
- Work collaboratively with the Head of Safeguarding and wider staff team to promote a proactive safeguarding culture.
- Signpost players and families to additional support services where appropriate.
- Support parent engagement initiatives and provide guidance around player wellbeing and development.
- Assist with safeguarding and player care projects, campaigns and awareness initiatives throughout the season.
- Act as the Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) for allocated Academy training sessions and fixtures.