The Football Association (The FA) is the governing body of football in England. We are responsible for promoting and developing the game at all levels; from grass roots through to the professional game, The FA Cup and the England International teams, and has two core assets: Wembley Stadium and St George’s Park.
To assess risk and investigate criminal records information, referred allegations or concerns in relation to individuals who may pose a safeguarding risk to children or vulnerable adults in affiliated football, and to implement risk management plans where appropriate.
Manage referral caseload efficiently and effectively in line with The FA policies, procedures, regulations, protocols and thresholds.
- Undertake investigations on criminal records information, allegations or concerns made against individuals within, or seeking to enter, football.
- Complete risk assessments and where appropriate, recommend a risk management plan to the Safeguarding Case Manager, Safeguarding Investigations Manager, Safeguarding Quality Assurance Manager or Head of Safeguarding Case Management.
- Prepare comprehensive reports and paperwork for consideration by the Safeguarding Review Panel for cases which require an order in accordance with The FA’s Safeguarding Regulations.
- Progress cases to their full conclusion within the timescales stipulated by The FA.
- Keep all case files up to date by accurately and consistently recording actions taken on cases using The FA’s Case Management system, in line with FA Data Protection Policies and protocols and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Code of Practice.
- Ensure The FA fulfils its legal duties under the Protection of Freedoms Act, 2012, including referrals to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Other
- Work collaboratively with colleagues within The FA Group and external agencies e.g. County FAs, the professional game, statutory agencies, Local Authority Designated Officers and the Probation Service.
- Work with and support the network of Designated Safeguarding Officers in football and contribute to regional County FA meetings and assist in the delivery of training, where required at a regional or national level.
- Self-reflect on performance, ask for feedback, identify relevant learning needs, attend and effectively prepare for regular supervision and relevant management meetings.
Execute additional tasks as required in order to meet The FA Group changing priorities.
Essential
- Diploma in Social Work, Police Officer, Youth Offending Officer or Probation Officer with a relevant degree or lawyer experienced in child care/family law.
- 3 years experience of front line child protection intervention and/or risk assessment of adult perpetrators, and application of risk assessment tools.
- Knowledge of safeguarding frameworks and best practice.
- Evidence of child-centred approach and an understanding of children’s rights, needs and best interests.
- Excellent report writing skills, including risk assessments and risk management report writing and analysis of risk.
- Experience in handling sensitive information with discretion.
- Proficient skills in Microsoft Office.
- Flexible approach to hours and travel.
- Evidence of continuous training and development.
- Emotional resilience.
Desirable
- Experience of working in a regulatory environment.
- Knowledge of relevant child protection legislation, and delivery agencies such as the Disclosure and Barring Service and the Child Protection in Sport Unit.
- Experience of working in football.
- Knowledge of mental wellbeing strategies and managing cases in relation to adults at risk.
- An exciting and challenging role within a changing, dynamic and world-renowned sports organisation.
- Attractive benefits and a competitive salary for the right candidate.
The Football Association Group promotes inclusion and diversity, and welcomes applications from everyone. If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process please mention this in your covering letter.
