Is someone in immediate danger?
In Barbados, call the Barbados Police Service on 211. Seek urgent medical help if needed.
Report a safeguarding concern
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, report it promptly. Call in urgent situations. You can also contact the police.
Anyone can raise a concern, including children, adults at risk, parents, teammates, volunteers and spectators. You can speak to your club or event safeguarding contact if one has been provided.
You can go directly to the authorities at any time, including if your concern involves someone at your club or within BFA.
Do not wait to raise an urgent concern.Make urgent referrals without waiting for an internal response or collecting proof.
If someone tells you they have been harmed
Listen calmly and take them seriously. Explain that you may need to share the information to help keep them safe. Write down what they said and what you observed. Leave enquiries to the people responsible for handling the report.
Who safeguarding covers
Across every part of football
Safeguarding applies across BFA football, including clubs, leagues, national teams, training, matches, tournaments, travel and online activity.
It protects children under 18 and adults who may need support to protect themselves from harm. It includes players, referees, ball attendants and spectators.
Everyone has the right to feel safe
Everyone has the right to participate free from abuse, neglect, grooming, exploitation, bullying, harassment and discrimination.
This applies to harm between peers as well as harm involving adults in positions of trust.
What to expect at football activities
BFA’s safeguarding standards cover the people, environments and everyday interactions that make football safer.
People and supervision
Safer recruitment and training, appropriate supervision, respectful conduct and clear boundaries for adults working with children.
Photos and communications
Photography and online communications are included in BFA’s safeguarding standards.
Facilities, transport and travel
Safeguarding standards also cover changing areas, transport and overnight stays.
What happens after you report
When BFA receives a concern, its response focuses on protecting and supporting the person affected.
Immediate safety
The response focuses on immediate safety and support for the person affected.
Appropriate referrals
Concerns are referred to the appropriate authorities where needed.
Careful information sharing
Information is shared only with people who need it to help protect someone, manage the concern or meet a legal obligation.
BFA prohibits retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
For an adult at risk, involve the person in decisions wherever safe and appropriate. Seek urgent help if they are in immediate danger.
