Safeguarding remains high on The FA's agenda; the goal being to have someone at every club in the country aware of child protection and best practice, whether it's a Premier League Academy or a Sunday morning park side. Safeguarding relates to any child under the age of 18 years.

Safeguarding is about doing things the right way, doing things properly. It's about allowing children to enjoy the game without abuse of any kind. That means bullying, physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect.

The FA believes football can have a powerful positive influence on children but that means everyone involved in football must take on the responsibility of looking after those children that want to play the game.

If you have any queries or concerns regarding safeguarding issues contact our safeguarding team on Safeguarding@DurhamFA.com.