West Ham United Football Club Safeguarding Policy & Procedures
Policy Statement
West Ham United Football Club (hereafter referred to as the ‘Club’) is committed to ensuring that all children and adults at risk involved in Club programmes and activities enjoy a positive and respectful environment where they are actively protected from harmful experiences. The policy is designed to encourage compliance with relevant legislation and recommended best practice. It emphasises the responsibility of all those involved in working with adults at risk to be alert to signs of abuse and provides for a prompt and effective reporting procedure should abuse be suspected, disclosed or discovered, regardless of the setting in which the abuse has taken place.
Safeguarding Principles
Also, the Club recognises the following principles which underpin our work with all groups and individuals who may have additional needs for support and protection:
It is every child and adult’s right to be protected from abuse irrespective of their age, gender identity, faith or religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, background, economic position, disability or level of ability.
All staff and volunteers share the responsibility for the protection of children and adults at risk and will show respect and understanding for their rights, safety and welfare.
The additional vulnerability of disabled adults (including those with invisible disabilities, learning and communication differences) is recognised.
Allegations of abuse or concerns about the welfare of any child or adult will be treated seriously and will be responded to swiftly and appropriately.
The Club recognises the responsibilities of the statutory agencies and is committed to complying with the Local Safeguarding Adult Board (SAB) procedures and the Care and Support statutory guidance (2015).
Confidentiality will be maintained appropriately always, and the child’s and adult’s safety and welfare must be the overriding consideration when making decisions on whether to share information about them.
WHUFC will support all children and adults involved in the Club to understand their roles and responsibilities with regards to safeguarding and protecting children and adults at risk, including the responsibility to report all concerns to the Club’s Head of Safeguarding or a Safeguarding Officer.
The Club ensures access to training/direct provision of learning opportunities for all staff/volunteers involved in the organisation or delivery of activities appropriate to their role to enable them to make informed and confident responses to safeguarding concerns and adult protection issues.
All participants involved in Club activities have the right to be listened to with respect and heard.
Insight into Some of Our Safeguarding Priorities
This document aims to clearly set out our safeguarding and well-being action plan, along with our long-term goals. It is intended for widespread distribution so that everyone in our organisation and beyond understands and supports our priorities.
Safeguarding is a shared duty, embedded in our daily decisions and actions—whether on matchdays, in community projects, or through our duty of care to supporters.
It influences how we support each other, connect with supporters, families, carers, partners, and community groups, and how we proactively identify and handle risks.
Safeguarding goes further than simple protection; it involves creating opportunities, encouraging positive practices, and helping individuals to grow, succeed, and explore their talents and interests.
Most importantly, this document demonstrates how we are moving beyond words and good intentions by sharing evidence, fostering accountability, and promoting shared responsibility, all of which build our safeguarding culture.
IN SAFE HANDS: OUR GAME PLAN FOR SAFEGUARDING THIS SEASON AND BEYOND
Policy Documents
West Ham United Safeguarding Policy & Procedures
Matchday FAQs
Reporting incidents and concerns
Can my child move around the Stadium on their own?
What is the age for unaccompanied juniors attending matches?
Can I leave my child at their seat while I go onto the concourse?