EDGE FA FOOTBALL ACADEMY

ONLINE SAFETY POLICY

1. POLICY STATEMENT

Edge FA Football Academy is committed to promoting a safe and responsible online environment for all players, parents, coaches, volunteers and staff. The academy recognises the benefits of digital communication whilst understanding the risks associated with online activity and social media use.

2. PURPOSE

This policy aims to protect children and young people from online harm, promote safe digital behaviour and establish clear expectations regarding the use of technology, social media and electronic communication.

3. SCOPE

This policy applies to all players, coaches, volunteers, staff, parents, carers, contractors and any individual representing Edge FA Football Academy.

4. ONLINE SAFETY PRINCIPLES

• Safeguarding remains the priority in all online interactions.

• Children must be protected from online abuse and exploitation.

• Digital communication must be professional and transparent.

• Parents should be included in communications involving children wherever possible.

• Respect and inclusion must be maintained online at all times.

5. COMMUNICATION WITH PLAYERS

Coaches and staff must:

• Use approved academy communication platforms.

• Include parents or guardians in communications with players under 18.

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

• Keep communication relevant to football activities.

Coaches and staff must not:

• Send inappropriate messages.

• Engage in private conversations with children unrelated to football activities.

• Share personal content with players.

• Contact players through personal social media accounts.

6. SOCIAL MEDIA USE

• Demonstrate respect online.

• Protect the reputation of Edge FA Football Academy.

• Avoid offensive, discriminatory or abusive content.

• Report concerns regarding online behaviour.

7. CYBERBULLYING

Cyberbullying will not be tolerated and includes:

• Online harassment.

• Abusive messages.

• Spreading rumours online.

• Sharing harmful content.

• Excluding individuals from online groups.

Any incidents of cyberbullying will be investigated under the Anti-Bullying Policy.

8. PHOTOGRAPHS AND VIDEOS

Photographs and videos must only be used in accordance with academy consent procedures and safeguarding guidance. Images should be stored securely and used appropriately.

9. REPORTING ONLINE SAFETY CONCERNS

Any online safety concern must be reported immediately to the Club Welfare Officer. Serious concerns may be referred to The Football Association, Police or Children’s Social Care where appropriate.

10. CONFIDENTIALITY AND DATA PROTECTION

All online communications and digital records must comply with UK GDPR and academy data protection procedures.

11. MONITORING AND REVIEW

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to legislative changes, safeguarding developments or FA guidance updates.

***

EDGE FA VALUES

Developing Players. Building Futures.

Respect | Inclusion | Excellence | Integrity

Safeguarding Children is Everyone’s Responsibility.