FA adopts Liverpool safeguarding work as national case study

The Football Association is distributing Liverpool FC's safeguarding programme as a national case study for clubs across England, highlighting the club's Play Safe Weekend activities from October as an example of good practice.

A series of practical workshops was run at Liverpool's emerging talent centres and academies for both male and female teams, led by the club's dedicated safeguarding and player care staff. The sessions gave young players a structured opportunity to provide open feedback in a safe environment.

Responses gathered during the workshops were used to produce tangible changes at the club, including a revised safeguarding guide written in a tone of voice more accessible to children.

"Ensuring that children and young people feel listened to is a key part of Premier League safeguarding standards and of our safeguarding culture at Liverpool FC," said Nicola Fryer, the club's director of safeguarding.

"When young people see that their opinions matter in the day-to-day aspects of their experience, they are much more likely to speak openly with trusted adults if they encounter a concern or need support. That confidence and trust can make a real difference."

Freyer added that the commitment extends beyond a single awareness weekend. "While Play Safe provides an important opportunity to highlight the voice of the child, this is something we are committed to embedding throughout the entire season, not just during Play Safe Weekend."

The work was conducted in partnership with official club charity LFC Foundation. The FA is now circulating the Liverpool model for other clubs to learn from.