Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead

Introducing our new Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead – Chris Cook OBE.

Chris joins us as a Trustee and will work closely with fellow Trustee Cath Gouldsbrough and our entire community, further strengthening safeguarding and well-being within our beautiful game.

With an extensive background, Chris worked for Lincolnshire Police for thirty-two years before retiring as a senior police officer. Since November 2009, he has served as the Independent Chair of the Lincolnshire Safeguarding Children Partnership. Additionally, he holds the position of Independent Chair for the Nottingham City, Derbyshire, and North East Lincolnshire Safeguarding Children Partnerships. He is also the Chairman of the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Panel.

In January this year, he was appointed Safeguarding Director of the Lincolnshire Football Association.

Passionate about football at all levels, Chris supports Boston United and Tottenham Hotspur. He has played grassroots football in Lincolnshire and currently supports his two grandsons, who play for local teams in the Boston area. His interests also extend to tennis, where he serves as the Chairman of Boston Tennis Club.

Deeply committed to children’s safety, Chris was awarded an OBE in 2017 for his services to children. Speaking about his appointment, Chris said: “I am really looking forward to working with colleagues, partners, and communities connected to The WFA”.

Dean Williams, Chairperson of The WFA, added, “We are delighted to have Chris join us, further strengthening the care and diligence we have across our game. He brings exceptional experience and will be a great addition to the board of Trustees.”

Welcome, Chris!