Academy Safeguarding Lead

To lead and manage safeguarding and welfare provision across the Rochdale AFC Academy in line with EFL Youth Development Rules, FA safeguarding standards and Club policies, ensuring a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all Academy Players, staff and volunteers.

Lead and coordinate safeguarding and welfare provision across all Academy age groups.

Ensure the Academy complies with FA safeguarding requirements, EFL Youth Development Rules and Club safeguarding policies.

Act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns involving Academy Players, staff, parents and volunteers.

Manage and support safeguarding referrals, reporting procedures and case management processes where required.

Promote a positive safeguarding culture throughout the Academy environment.

Deliver safeguarding training, awareness and support for Academy staff and volunteers.

Ensure safer recruitment procedures are followed across the Academy.

Work collaboratively with player care, education, coaching and medical departments to support player wellbeing.

Maintain safeguarding records, risk assessments and compliance documentation.

Support Academy audits, compliance reviews and continuous improvement planning.

Attend Academy meetings, fixtures, tournaments and events as required.

Liaise with external agencies and governing bodies where appropriate.

Represent Rochdale AFC professionally and positively at all times.

Founded in 1907, Rochdale AFC is an established professional football club, who will compete in EFL League Two for the 2026/27 season, alongside FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Vertu Trophy knockout competition commitments. We are involved in a broad range of sporting, commercial, and charitable activities, following the acquisition of a controlling stake in the club by The Ogden Family in May 2024.