The Wheelchair Football Association (WFA) are delighted to be recruiting for the voluntary role of Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead. This vital role supports The WFA in creating a safe and inclusive environment for all participants, including any potentially vulnerable groups involved in Powerchair Football.

As the Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead (Trustee), you will champion the right of all WFA members to a safe, accessible, and inclusive environment, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation, or identity. You will work closely with The WFA Safeguarding and Wellbeing Officer and be an active Board member, ensuring that the best interests and wellbeing of children and adults are prioritised and safeguarding is embedded within all WFA activities.

• Title: Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead (Trustee)
• Salary: Voluntary (average 8-10 hours per month)
• Location: Home-based, with meetings taking place nationally and online
• Responsible to: WFA Chairperson

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain and strengthen governance standards in safeguarding in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance, Charity Commission requirements, The FA’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and associated guidance.
• Embed safeguarding and wellbeing responsibilities in The WFA’s Strategy and Operational Plan.
• Oversee safeguarding processes, including providing relevant training, ensuring compliance with safeguarding policies, and embedding safeguarding commitments in all role profiles.
• Monitor and scrutinise progress against key safeguarding and wellbeing areas, ensuring that the best interests of children, young people, and adults at risk are paramount.
• Ensure that structures, systems, processes, and controls are in place to meet safeguarding and wellbeing requirements and best practices across the sport.

Key Skills and Experience Required (Essential):

• Demonstrable experience in highly effective governance and leading a strategic approach.
• Experience in adult safeguarding with a strong understanding of child safeguarding or vice versa.
• Knowledge of grassroots or other voluntary activity.
• Understanding of charitable organisation operations in line with Charity Commission guidance.
• Awareness of The FA’s safeguarding policy and procedures.
• Effective listening skills, ability to ask probing questions, and strong communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.
• Experience in problem-solving and sound decision-making.
• Basic IT skills, including Word, Excel, and email.

Desirable:

• Football club or other sport officiating experience.
• Experience in organisational assessments, audits, or inspections.
• Experience as a member of committees or boards.

This is a home-based role, with meetings taking place nationally and online. While the role is voluntary, expenses can be paid in line with The WFA policy. If you are passionate about safeguarding and wellbeing in sports and have the necessary skills and experience, we encourage you to apply.

Application Process: 

Please send your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability and experience to WFA Secretary Matthew Stevens at: secretary@thewfa.org.uk

The deadline for application is Monday, June 24th, 2024, at midday. 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to the next stage of the process, including a panel interview.