FA Chair Debbie Hewitt MBE had the privilege of attending the recent EFL game between Port Vale and Swindon Town, as part of our Play Safe safeguarding campaign.
Whilst the campaign continuously supports high standards of safeguarding across the game, the annual Play Safe weekend sees the whole of football in England – from the professional game to the grassroots, and every level in between – join forces to promote awareness of the importance of safeguarding.
The weekend is endorsed by leading children’s charity the NSPCC and the central push behind this year’s weekend was to create awareness among individuals of the vital safeguarding role they can play.
Sue Ravenlaw, our head of safeguarding describes it as “Everyone, everywhere, every time.”
Debbie chose this match in recognition of the appointment of Port Vale’s new head of safeguarding Gary Cliffe, himself a survivor, who has gone on to courageously campaign and encourage others to speak out through his work with the FA’s Survivor Support and Safeguarding Advisory Group (FASSSAG). This group have helped to shape the FA’s Play Safe campaign from the outset.
She said: “Gary has channelled his determination to speak out into helping others. We know that his actions have given confidence to others who may have doubts to come forward and seek justice. I’m delighted that this appointment gives him the recognition he deserves for courageously sharing his experiences and the important work he does to support victims.”
Gary was joined by fellow survivor Jamie Cartwright and together they delivered several Play Safe initiatives on the day.
Debbie joined both to meet the managers, officials, captains and mascots and representatives of Staffordshire FA, who were hosted by owner of Port Vale, Carol Shanahan.
Carol recognised the significance of the weekend in raising awareness and added: “We’re so inspired by Gary’s dedication and commitment that his role will help us take our own efforts forward.
“Whether you’re a parent, carer, committee member, coach, player, referee, spectator or a safeguarding lead, know just how much of a difference you can make.”
Find out more about your role in safeguarding here.
