Safeguarding requirements
See what qualifications you need for your role.
make sure you have the qualifications you need
Safeguarding in football is everyone's responsibility, but it can be tricky to know exactly which qualifications you need for your role. This simple guide should help you to understand the different requirements for youth, open-age and disability football in 2024/25.
You can scroll to the bottom of the page to learn more about each qualification and how to complete it.
Safeguarding requirements for clubs with YOUTH teams
Safeguarding requirements for clubs with DISABILITY teams
Safeguarding requirements for clubs with open-age teams
Safeguarding requirements for YOUTH LEAGUES
Qualifications
Click on each qualification below to find out more or start the process of completing it.
Click here to download The FA guidance on obtaining a DBS check.
All DBS checks for those working/volunteering in football should be FA-issued. Other issuers are not recognised by The FA.
Click here to complete the Introduction to First Aid course.
This is an online course that takes approximately two hours to complete. It costs £30.
This is the entry-level first aid course, akin to the previous Level 1 qualification. Higher levels may be required for those involved with clubs in the National League System.
Click here to complete the Player Welfare course.
This is a free online course that takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.
Click here to complete the Safeguarding Adults course.
This is a free online course that takes approximately one hour to complete.
Click here to complete the Safeguarding Children course.
This is an online course that takes approximately two hours to complete. It costs £30.
The Safeguarding Children qualification is valid for two years, after which you will have to renew it. Renewing is free via this recertification course, available here.
Click here to complete the Safeguarding for Committee Members course.
This is a free online course that takes approximately one hour to complete.
Click here to complete the Welfare Officers Course.
This is an online course that takes approximately two hours to complete. It costs £25.