Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions

Effective Date: 26 October 2026

Download our Safeguarding Policy (PDF)

By making a booking with The Titans Football Academy (“Titans”, “we”, “us”, “our”), you agree to the terms and conditions set out below.

Booking, Registration and Membership

1. Free Trial Sessions

Titans Football Academy offers eligible children the opportunity to attend a free trial session, subject to availability.

Parents/guardians must complete the required registration form before their child attends a trial, providing accurate contact details, medical information and any additional information reasonably necessary for safe participation.

Attendance at a free trial does not automatically guarantee an ongoing place at the selected Development Centre.

Following the free trial, parents/guardians wishing for their child to continue attending must activate a monthly membership.

2. Membership Requirements

All children attending Titans Football Academy’s regular weekly Development Centre sessions must have an active membership following their free trial.

Membership must be activated before a child can attend any subsequent session.

A child’s place is confirmed once the membership has been accepted and activated by Titans Football Academy.

Children without an active membership will not be permitted to participate in regular weekly sessions unless Titans has expressly authorised an alternative arrangement.

3. Monthly Direct Debit Payments

Titans Football Academy operates a monthly membership payment system, with regular membership fees collected by Direct Debit.

Where a child joins partway through a calendar month, an initial one-off pro-rata payment will be charged, calculated proportionately to cover the remaining period of that month.

The joining month counts as Month 1 of the minimum three-calendar-month membership commitment, regardless of the joining date.

Following the initial pro-rata payment, regular monthly membership fees will be collected by Direct Debit in accordance with the agreed payment schedule.

Parents/guardians are responsible for:

  • Completing the Direct Debit authorisation process.

  • Maintaining valid payment arrangements.

  • Ensuring sufficient funds are available for scheduled payments.

  • Informing Titans of any changes affecting their membership or payments.

The applicable membership fees and payment arrangements will be communicated before membership activation.

Membership fees remain payable throughout the minimum commitment and applicable cancellation notice period, subject to statutory rights and any agreed exceptions.

4. No Pay-As-You-Go Option

Titans Football Academy does not offer a pay-as-you-go option for regular weekly Development Centre sessions.

Individual session payments, cash payments or direct payments to coaches are not accepted as alternatives to an active monthly membership.

5. Minimum Membership Commitment

All Development Centre memberships are subject to a minimum commitment of three calendar months.

The calendar month in which a child joins counts as the first membership month, regardless of the date they join.

For example, a child joining on 15 October will have:

  • October counted as Month 1 (with a pro-rata payment).

  • November counted as Month 2.

  • December counted as Month 3.

Following the minimum membership period, membership continues on a rolling monthly basis until cancelled in accordance with the cancellation requirements below.

The minimum commitment is subject to applicable statutory cancellation rights and other circumstances in which early cancellation is legally required or reasonably justified.

6. Membership Cancellation

Parents/guardians wishing to cancel their child’s membership must provide one full calendar month’s written notice.

Cancellation requests must be submitted to:

Email: info@thetitansfa.com

WhatsApp: 07498 608268

The cancellation notice period begins on the first day of the calendar month following receipt of the written cancellation request.

Membership will end on the last day of that following month, provided the minimum three-month commitment has been completed.

Cancellation requests may be submitted during the initial three-month period. However, the normal membership end date cannot fall before both the minimum commitment and the notice period have been satisfied, subject to applicable statutory rights and justified exceptions.

Examples:

  • A child joins on 15 October and cancellation is requested on 20 October: membership normally ends on 31 December.

  • A child joins on 15 October and cancellation is requested on 15 November: membership normally ends on 31 December.

  • A child joins on 15 October and cancellation is requested on 15 December: membership normally ends on 31 January.

Monthly membership fees remain payable until the agreed membership end date.

Children may continue attending their registered sessions while their membership remains active, subject to payment and attendance requirements.

Cancelling a Direct Debit instruction does not, by itself, cancel the membership agreement.

Titans will acknowledge cancellation requests and confirm the membership end date and any final payment due.

Parents/guardians may request early cancellation where exceptional circumstances arise, including serious illness, injury, disability-related circumstances or relocation. Titans will consider these requests fairly, taking account of supporting information where reasonably necessary and applicable consumer rights.

7. Failed or Outstanding Payments

Where a Direct Debit payment fails or an account becomes overdue, Titans may contact the parent/guardian to request payment.

Where payment remains outstanding, Titans reserves the right to suspend attendance at future sessions until the account has been brought up to date, following appropriate notification.

Any outstanding fees legitimately due under the membership agreement remain payable.

Titans will act reasonably when resolving payment issues and will consider relevant individual circumstances.

8. Membership Availability and Session Allocation

Membership places are subject to availability and may be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where a requested session is full, Titans may offer:

  • An alternative session or location.

  • A place on a waiting list.

  • The opportunity to join when a space becomes available.

Titans reserves the right to manage group sizes, coaching arrangements and session capacity to maintain appropriate coaching standards and safeguarding arrangements.

Children must meet the relevant age or school-year requirements unless an alternative arrangement has been approved.

9. Additional Needs and Inclusive Participation

Titans Football Academy is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for children of different abilities and needs.

Our sessions are delivered in group coaching environments, with coaches responsible for supervising and supporting multiple children.

Due to our coaching structure and staffing arrangements, Titans does not routinely provide dedicated one-to-one care or support during sessions.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to inform Titans of any learning difficulties, disabilities, additional support needs or medical conditions that may affect their child’s participation.

Where additional support may be required, Titans will discuss the child’s individual needs with their parent/guardian and consider reasonable adjustments to help them participate safely and positively.

Reasonable adjustments may include adapting coaching activities, providing additional instructions, making appropriate changes to group arrangements or agreeing suitable support arrangements.

Where a child requires continuous individual supervision or assistance beyond what can reasonably be provided within our group coaching environment, Titans will discuss the available options with the parent/guardian before making any decision regarding participation.

Any decision will be made on an individual basis, taking account of the child’s needs, reasonable adjustments, safeguarding considerations and Titans’ obligations under the Equality Act 2010.

10. Medical Information and Medication

Parents/guardians must provide accurate and relevant medical information during registration, including details of any medical conditions, allergies, injuries, disabilities or medication requirements that may affect participation.

Parents/guardians must notify Titans of relevant changes to this information.

Where a child requires medication during a session, including an inhaler or adrenaline auto-injector, appropriate arrangements must be agreed with Titans.

Medical information will be handled confidentially and in accordance with applicable data protection requirements.

11. Data Protection

Personal information provided during registration and membership will be processed in accordance with applicable data protection legislation, including the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.

Further information about how Titans collects, uses, stores and shares personal information is available in the Academy’s Privacy Policy.

Nothing in these booking and membership terms affects a parent’s or guardian’s statutory consumer rights.

Booking Cancellations, Refunds and Rejoining

1. Minimum Membership Commitment

All Titans Football Academy Development Centre memberships are subject to a minimum commitment of three calendar months.

The calendar month in which a child joins counts as Month 1, regardless of the joining date.

Where a child joins partway through a calendar month, an initial one-off pro-rata payment is charged to cover the remaining period of that month.

Following the minimum commitment, membership continues on a rolling monthly basis until cancelled in accordance with the notice requirements below.

2. Membership Cancellation

Parents/guardians wishing to cancel their child’s membership must provide one full calendar month’s written notice.

Cancellation requests must be submitted via:

The notice period begins on the first day of the calendar month following receipt of the cancellation request.

Membership ends on the last day of that following month, provided the minimum three-month membership commitment has been completed.

Parents/guardians may submit cancellation notice during the initial three-month commitment.

Monthly membership fees remain payable until the membership end date, subject to statutory rights and any agreed exceptions.

Cancelling a Direct Debit instruction does not, by itself, cancel the membership agreement.

Titans will acknowledge cancellation requests and confirm the membership end date and any final payment due.

3. Sessions Cancelled Due to Insufficient Numbers

Titans reserves the right to cancel a Development Centre session where fewer than 10 children are registered.

Where reasonably possible, parents/guardians will receive at least 72 hours’ notice.

Where Titans cancels a session due to insufficient numbers, affected members will be offered a suitable alternative session or an appropriate refund or credit for the session that cannot be provided.

4. Sessions Cancelled Due to Weather or Unforeseen Circumstances

Titans reserves the right to cancel or postpone sessions where necessary due to adverse weather, venue closures, emergencies, safety concerns or other circumstances beyond its reasonable control.

The safety and welfare of children, parents and staff will remain the priority.

Where a session cannot take place, Titans will make reasonable efforts to offer a suitable alternative session or rearrangement.

Where an appropriate alternative cannot be provided, Titans will consider a fair refund, credit or other remedy, taking account of the circumstances and applicable consumer rights.

5. Rejoining Membership Fee

Where a child’s membership is cancelled and they subsequently rejoin Titans Football Academy within three calendar months of their previous membership ending, a £50 rejoining fee per child will apply.

The fee is payable when the new membership is activated, in addition to the applicable membership fees.

Where a child rejoins more than three calendar months after their previous membership ended, no rejoining fee will apply.

Rejoining is subject to availability, and Titans cannot guarantee that the child’s previous session or Development Centre place will remain available.

The rejoining fee will be clearly communicated before membership activation and applied fairly in accordance with applicable consumer law.

6. Statutory Consumer Rights

Nothing in these terms excludes or restricts a parent’s or guardian’s statutory consumer rights, including any applicable cancellation rights or remedies where contracted services are not provided.

Parental Code Of Conduct

  1. Please applaud and encourage good play but don’t coach from the side-line. We don’t want to confuse our players with mixed messages. We are also creating an environment where are players are to make their own decisions.
  2. Parents will allow their children the creative freedom to explore their interests in football and try new techniques and ideas without the fear of failure.
  3. Parents will trust their child’s Titans coach to deliver sound coaching and safety advice without interruption unless in the interest of safety.
  4. Parents will refrain from negative behaviour that disrupts productivity of the training and enjoyment of the session. This includes shouting, directing, shaming or embarrassing any child on the session.
  5. Parents will understand that across all Titans sessions we run a player development programme, and this is our paramount focus. Whilst competitive behaviour is encouraged, the aim is to learn, enjoy and develop, not to win at all costs.
  6. All non-players are required to stay on the outside of caged facilities for the duration of the session, the parents can watch and observe the session from a suitable distance to maximise area size for Titans players and coaches. This removes potential of injury and interruption as well as allowing the kids to concentrate on their football independently.
  7. In the interest of coach preparation, parents will understand any questions they may have for a Titans coach must be addressed before or after the sessions, not in between.

Safeguarding and Child Welfare

Titans Football Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children participating in its activities.

The safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority. Titans operates in accordance with applicable safeguarding legislation, recognised best practice and relevant Football Association (FA) safeguarding requirements.

All coaches and staff are expected to comply with the Academy’s safeguarding policies and procedures, including appropriate supervision, safer recruitment, reporting concerns and responding to safeguarding incidents.

Parents/guardians are required to comply with the Academy’s Arrival, Drop-Off, Collection and Departure Procedures, including any age-specific supervision requirements.

Titans maintains procedures for managing missing children, late collection, bullying, discrimination and other safeguarding concerns.

Any safeguarding concerns should be reported to:

Designated Safeguarding Lead: Charlie Dainty

Email: charlie@thetitansfa.com

Telephone: 07737 166687

Where a child is at immediate risk of harm, emergency services should be contacted by calling 999.

Our full Safeguarding Policy is available on our website and forms part of the Academy’s safeguarding framework.

Spectators and Parents/Carers

We all bear a collective responsibility to set a good example and help provide a positive environment in which children can learn and enjoy the game. Play your part and observe The FA’s Respect Code of Conduct for spectators at all times.

Remember that children play for FUN:

  • Applaud effort and good play as well as success
  • Respect the Referee’s decisions even when you don’t agree with them
  • Appreciate good play from whatever team it comes from
  • Remain behind the touchline and within the Designated Spectators’ Area
  • Let the coach do their job don’t confuse the players by telling them what to do
  • Encourage the players to respect the opposition, referee and match officials
  • Support positively and offer players encouragement not criticism

Never engage in, or tolerate offensive, insulting or abusive language or behaviour I understand that if I do not follow the Code, any/all of the following actions may be taken:

I may:

  • Be issued with a verbal warning from a club or league official
  • Be required to meet with the club, league or CFA Welfare Officer
  • Be Required to meet with the club committee
  • Obliged to undertake an FA education course
  • Be obliged to leave the match venue by the club
  • Requested by the club not to attend future games
  • Be suspended or have my club membership removed
  • Be required to leave the club along with any dependents.

In addition:

The FA/County FA could impose a fine and/or suspension on the club.

I Agree to all of the above and I will sign the code of conduct register.

Equality

The Titans FA is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the club at every level. Football belongs to and should be enjoyed by anyone who wants to participate in it.

The Titans FA in all its activities will not discriminate or in any way, treat anyone less favourably on grounds of age, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or belief, ability or disability. The club will ensure it treats people fairly and with respect and that it will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in and enjoy its activities.

The Titans FA will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimisation of an individual, which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination. This includes sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal. The club will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs.

The Titans FA is committed to taking positive action where inequalities exist and to the development of a programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities in order to promote the eradication of discrimination and promote equality in football.

The Titans FA is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members to abide and adhere to these policies and the requirements of the Equality Act 2010.

The Titans FA commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims when brought to its attention, of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice stop,

and sanctions are imposing as appropriate. This policy is fully supported by the Club Officers who are responsible for the implementation of this policy

The Titans FA is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level or authority, to abide and adhere to this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality. Specifically, discrimination is prohibited in:

  • Treating any individual on grounds of gender, colour, marital status, race, nationality or ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientated or disability less favourably than others.
  • Expecting an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement(s) for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which are different to the requirements for others.
  • Imposing on an individual requirements which are in effect more onerous on that individual than they are on others. For example this would include applying a condition (which is not warranted by the requirements of the position) which makes it more difficult for members of a particular race or sex to comply than others not of that race or sex.
  • Victimisation of an individual.
  • Harassment of an individual (which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable thereto is regarded as discrimination).
  • Any other act or omission of an act, which has as its effect the disadvantaging of a member against another, or others, purely on the above grounds. Thus, in all the Club’s recruitment, selection, promotion and training processes, as well as disciplinary matters etc. – in other words all instances where those in control of members are required to make judgements between them – it is essential that merit, experience, skills and temperament are considered as objectively as possible.

The Titans FA commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice cease forthwith, restitution of damage or loss (if necessary) and to the investigation of any member accused of discrimination.

Any member found guilty of discrimination will be instructed to desist forthwith. Since discrimination in its many forms is against the Football Club’s policy, any members offending will be dealt with under the disciplinary procedure.

The Titans FA commits itself to the disabled person whenever possible and will treat such members, in aspects of their recruitment and membership, in exactly the same manner as other members, the difficulties of their disablement permitting assistance will be given, wherever possible to ensure that.

In the event that any member feels that he or she has suffered discrimination in any way or that the Club Policies, Rules or Code of Conduct have been broken should follow the procedures below.

  1. They should report the matter to the Club Secretary or another member of the Committee. Your report should include: Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place. Any witness statement and names. Names of any others who have been treated in a similar way. Details of any former complaints made about the incident, date, when and to whom made. A preference for a solution to the incident:

  2. The Club’s Management Committee will sit for any hearings that are requested.

  3. The Club’s Management Committee will have the power to:

Warn as to future conduct;

Suspend from membership;

Remove from membership; any person found to have broken the Club’s Policies or Codes of Conduct.

This policy aligns with the Equality Act 2010 and current FA Codes of Practice.

Anti-Discrimination

The Titans FA is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the club at every level. Football belongs to and should be enjoyed by everyone, equally. Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether by reason of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.

Equality of opportunity means that in all our activities we will not discriminate or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.

This includes:

  • The advertisement for volunteers.
  • The selection of candidates for volunteers.
  • Courses.
  • External coaching and education activities and awards.
  • Football development activities.
  • Selection for teams.
  • Appointments to honorary positions.

The Titans FA will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal and will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs.

The Titans FA is committed to the development of the programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities in order to promote the eradication of discrimination within its own organisation and in the wider context, within football as a whole.

Anti-Bullying

We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of our members, so they can participate in football in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable at our club. If bullying does occur, all club members or parents should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a TELLING club. This means that anyone who knows that bullying is happening is expected to tell the Club Welfare Officer (CWO) or any committee member. This club is committed to playing its part to teach players to treat each other with respect.

What is Bullying?

Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim. Bullying can be:

  • Emotional being unfriendly, excluding (emotionally and physically) sending hurtful text messages, tormenting, (e.g. hiding football boots/shin guards, threatening gestures).
  • Physical pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence.
  • Sexual unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments.
  • Discrimination racial taunts, graffiti, gestures, homophobic comments, jokes about disabled people, sexist comments.
  • Verbal name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours, teasing.

Cyberbulling

This is when a person uses technology i.e. mobile phones or the internet (social networking sites, chat rooms, instant messenger, tweets), to deliberately upset someone. Bullies often feel anonymous and ‘distanced’ from the incident when it takes place online and ‘bystanders’ can easily become bullies themselves by forwarding the information on. There is a growing trend for bullying to occur online or via texts – bullies no longer rely on being physically near to the young person.

Trolling

This is the name given to posting deliberately offensive comments on people’s social media pages aimed at causing upset and distress. This type of behaviour could result in legal action.

Our Commitment

This club commits to ensure our website websites and/or social networking pages are being used appropriately and any online bullying will be dealt with swiftly and appropriately in line with procedures detailed in this policy.

Why is it Important to Respond to Bullying?

Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying. Everybody has the right to be treated with respect. Individuals who are bullying need to learn different ways of behaving. This club has a responsibility to respond promptly and effectively to issues of bullying.

Objectives of this Policy

  • All club members, coaches, officials and parents should have an understanding of what bullying is.
  • All club members, coaches and officials should know what the club policy is on bullying and follow it when bullying is reported.
  • All players and parents should know what the club policy is on bullying, and what they should do if bullying arises.
  • As a club we take bullying seriously. Players and parents should be assured that they would be supported when bullying is reported.
  • Bullying will not be tolerated.

Signs and Indicators

A child may indicate by signs or behaviour that he or she is being bullied. Adults should be aware of these possible signs and that they should investigate if a child:

  • says he or she is being bullied
  • is unwilling to go to club sessions
  • becomes withdrawn anxious, or lacking in confidence
  • feels ill before training sessions
  • comes home with clothes torn or training equipment damaged
  • has possessions go “missing”
  • asks for money or starts stealing money (to pay the bully)
  • has unexplained cuts or bruises
  • is frightened to say what’s wrong
  • gives improbable excuses for any of the above.

In more extreme cases:

  • starts stammering
  • cries themselves to sleep at night or has nightmares
  • becomes aggressive, disruptive or unreasonable
  • is bullying other children or siblings
  • stops eating
  • attempts or threatens suicide or runs away.

These signs and behaviours may indicate other problems, but bullying should be considered a possibility and should be investigated.

Bullying as a result of any form of discrimination

Bullying because of discrimination occurs when bullying is motivated by a prejudice against certain people or groups of people. This may be because of their gender, age, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, disability or ability.

Verbal Abuse

Derogatory remarks about girls or women, suggesting girls and women are inferior to boys and men, or that black, Asian and ethnic minority people are not as capable as white people; spreading rumours that someone is gay, suggesting that something or someone is inferior and so they are “gay” – for example, “you’re such a gay boy!” or “those trainers are so gay!” Ridiculing someone because of a disability or mental health related issue, or because they have a physical, mental or emotional developmental delay. Referring to someone by the colour of their skin, rather than their name; using nicknames that have racial connotations; isolating someone because they come from another country or social background etc.

Physical Abuse

Including hitting, punching, kicking, sexual assault, and threatening behaviour.

Cyberbullying

Using online spaces to spread rumours about someone or exclude them. It can also include text messaging, including video and picture messaging.

Discrimination is often driven by a lack of understanding which only serves to strengthen stereotypes and can potentially lead to actions that may cause women, ethnic minorities, disabled people, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people, or people who follow specific religions or beliefs, to feel excluded, isolated or undervalued. Ensure that club members know that discriminatory language and behaviour will not be tolerated in this club.

  • If an incident occurs, members should be informed that discriminatory language is offensive, and will not be tolerated. If a member continues to make discriminatory remarks, explain in detail the effects that discrimination and bullying has on people. If it is a young person making the remarks their parents should be informed just as in any breach of the clubs Code of Conduct and this Anti-Bullying policy.
  • If a member makes persistent remarks, they should be removed from the training setting in line with managing challenging behaviour and the CWO or club officials should talk to them in more detail about why their comments are unacceptable.
  • If the problem persists, the member should be made to understand the sanctions that will apply if they continue to use discriminatory language or behaviour.
  • Consider inviting the parents/carers to the club to discuss the attitudes of the youth member in line with the procedures detailed in this policy.

Procedures

  1. Report bullying incidents to the CWO or a member of the clubs committee.
  2. In cases of serious bullying, the incidents will be referred to the county FA Welfare Officer for advice and possibly to The FA Case Management Team.
  3. Parents should be informed and will be asked to come in to a meeting to discuss the problem.
  4. If necessary and appropriate, the police will be consulted.
  5. The bullying behaviour or threats of bullying must be investigated, and the bullying stopped quickly.
  6. An attempt will be made to help the bully (bullies) change their behaviour.
  7. If mediation fails and the bullying is seen to continue the club will initiate disciplinary action under the club constitution.

Recommended Club Action

If the club decides it is appropriate for them to deal with the situation they should follow the procedure outlined below:

  1. Reconciliation by getting the parties together. It may be that a genuine apology solves the problem.
  2. If this fails/not appropriate a small panel (made up from Chairperson, Club Welfare Officer, Secretary, committee members) should meet with the parent and child alleging bullying to get details of the allegation. Minutes should be taken for clarity, which should be agreed by all as a true account.
  3. The same 3 persons should meet with the alleged bully and parent/s and put the incident raised to them to answer and give their view of the allegation. Minutes should again be taken and agreed.
  4. If bullying has in their view taken place the individual should be warned and put on notice of further action i.e. temporary or permanent suspension if the bullying continues. Consideration should be given as to whether a reconciliation meeting between parties is appropriate at this time.
  5. In some cases the parent of the bully or bullied player can be asked to attend training sessions, if they are able to do so, and if appropriate. The club committee should monitor the situation for a given period to ensure the bullying is not being repeated.
  6. All coaches involved with both individuals should be made aware of the concerns and outcome of the process i.e. the warning.

In the case of adults reported to be bullying anyone within the club under 18

  1. The County Welfare Officer should always be informed and will advise on action to be taken where appropriate, this may include action by The FA Safeguarding Team.
  2. It is anticipated that in most cases where the allegation is made regarding a team manager, official or coach, The FA’s Safeguarding Children Education Programme may be recommended.
  3. More serious cases may be referred to the Police and/or Children’s Social Care.
  • Prevention:

The club will have a written constitution, which includes what is acceptable and proper behaviour for all members of which the antibullying policy is one part.

  • All club members and parents will sign to accept the constitution upon joining the club.
  • The CWO will raise awareness about bullying and why it matters, and if issues of bullying arise in the club, will consider meeting with members to discuss the issue openly and constructively.

This policy is based on guidance provided to schools by KIDSCAPE. KIDSCAPE is a voluntary organisation committed to help prevent child bullying. KIDSCAPE can be contacted on 0207 730 3300 or you can access their website via www.kidscape.org.uk

You may also wish to access any of the following websites designed to give advice and guidance to parents and children who are faced with dealing with bullying:

Guidance for parents/carers:

www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

www.stonewall.org.uk

www.bullying.co.uk

Guidance for young people:

www.youngstonewall.org.uk

www.childline.org.uk

We would like to thank the ASA who have shared their Anti Bullying Policy for Clubs and to Stonewalls guidance from which this recommended FA Club Anti-Bullying Policy has been developed.

Player Permissions

Medical Consent: In the event that your child is injured whilst playing football/travelling to and from football events and you cannot be contacted, we have consent for your child to receive medical attention

Event Photography: Photographs may be taken at any of The Titans FA events for marketing purposes.

Event Filming: We can film any session your child is in. Videos may be taken at any of The Titans FA events for coaches and player development. These videos may be used for promotions by us.

Safety of Attendees: We believe it is our responsibility to ask you to ensure the safety of the attendees at The Titans FA. You agree to ensure your child comes equipped to their session with appropriate footwear (moulds or studs), warm clothing, shin pads and adequate drink for the duration of the session as well as any medication they may require.

Registration, Attendance and Parental Responsibilities

All children attending Titans Football Academy sessions must be enrolled with the Academy by a parent or legal guardian before participating.

  • Parents/guardians must provide accurate and up-to-date contact details, emergency contact information and any relevant medical or safeguarding information.

  • Titans coaches will maintain attendance records as part of the Academy’s normal session procedures. Attendance may be recorded at the beginning of or during a session rather than individually upon arrival.

  • Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their child arrives safely at the designated coaching area in accordance with the age-specific requirements below.

  • All changes to a child’s personal information, medical requirements, safeguarding information or collection arrangements must be communicated in writing to info@thetitansfa.com or via WhatsApp to 07498 608268.

Toddlers – Year 3

A parent/guardian or authorised adult must accompany their child to the designated coaching area and remain on-site throughout the entire session.

Parents/guardians must ensure their child has safely joined their designated coaching group before the session begins.

Years 4–6

A parent/guardian or authorised adult must accompany their child to the designated coaching area and ensure they have safely joined their coaching group before leaving the venue.

Parents/guardians are not required to remain on-site throughout the session but must remain contactable and ensure appropriate collection arrangements are in place.

Children must not be left unattended in car parks, entrances, school grounds or other areas of the venue before joining their coaching group.

Children must not leave the designated coaching area during a session without permission from a Titans coach.

Years 7–10

Children may arrive independently where their parent/guardian has provided prior authorisation in writing to info@thetitansfa.com or via WhatsApp to 07498 608268.

Children arriving independently must report directly to their designated coaching group before participating in any activities.

Parents/guardians remain responsible for ensuring appropriate arrangements are in place for their child’s safe journey to and from the venue.

Children must not leave the designated coaching area during a session without permission from a Titans coach.

Non-Attendance and Missing Children

Titans Football Academy recognises that children may occasionally miss scheduled sessions without prior notification.

  • Titans does not routinely contact parents/guardians when a child fails to attend a scheduled session.

  • A child’s non-attendance does not, by itself, indicate that the child is missing.

  • Where Titans staff become aware that a child has been dropped off at the venue but cannot be located, has left a session unexpectedly, or may otherwise be missing or at risk, the Academy’s Missing Child Procedure will be followed immediately.

Supervision and Duty of Care

Titans Football Academy is responsible for providing appropriate supervision and taking reasonable steps to safeguard children participating in its organised activities.

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their child arrives safely at the designated coaching area and follows the Academy’s arrival and collection arrangements.

Titans’ direct supervision normally begins when a child has joined their designated coaching group and been received by an authorised coach or staff member.

This does not exclude any safeguarding or duty-of-care responsibilities that may arise from the circumstances of an individual incident.

Arrival, Drop-Off and Supervision Procedures

To ensure the safety and safeguarding of all children attending Titans Football Academy sessions, the following procedures apply:

  • Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their child arrives safely at the designated coaching area.

Toddlers – Year 3

A parent/guardian or authorised adult must accompany their child to the designated coaching area and remain on-site for the entire duration of the session.

Parents/guardians must not leave the premises during the session and must remain available should a coach require their assistance.

Parents/guardians must ensure their child has safely joined their designated coaching group before the session begins.

Years 4–6

A parent/guardian or authorised adult must accompany their child to the designated coaching area and ensure they have safely joined their coaching group before leaving the venue.

Parents/guardians are not required to remain on-site throughout the session but must remain contactable and ensure appropriate collection arrangements are in place.

Years 7–10

Children may arrive independently where prior parental authorisation has been provided in writing to info@thetitansfa.com or via WhatsApp to 07498 608268.

Children arriving independently must report directly to their designated coaching group before participating in any activities.

Parents/guardians remain responsible for ensuring appropriate arrangements are in place for their child’s safe journey to and from the venue.

Supervision and Responsibility

  • Children must not be left unattended in car parks, entrances, school grounds or other areas of the venue before joining their designated coaching group.

  • Children must not leave the designated coaching area during a session without permission from a Titans coach.

  • Titans Football Academy is responsible for providing appropriate supervision and taking reasonable steps to safeguard children participating in its organised activities.

  • Titans’ direct supervision normally begins when a child has joined their designated coaching group and been received by an authorised coach or staff member.

  • This does not exclude any safeguarding or duty-of-care responsibilities that may arise from the circumstances of an individual incident.

Collection and Departure Procedures

To ensure all children leave Titans Football Academy sessions safely, the following procedures apply:

Toddlers – Year 3

As parents/guardians or authorised adults are required to remain on-site throughout the session, they must be available to take responsibility for their child immediately at the end of the coached activity.

Children must not leave the designated coaching area without their accompanying adult.

Years 4–6

Children must remain at the designated coaching area under the supervision of a Titans coach until collected by their parent/guardian or an authorised adult, unless an alternative arrangement has been agreed in writing with Titans Football Academy.

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring appropriate collection arrangements are in place and must remain contactable throughout the session.

Years 7–10

Children may leave independently at the end of their session where prior written parental authorisation has been provided and accepted by Titans Football Academy.

Where independent departure has not been authorised, children must remain at the designated coaching area under appropriate supervision until collected by a parent/guardian or authorised adult.

Parents/guardians remain responsible for ensuring appropriate arrangements are in place for their child’s safe journey home.

Changes to Collection Arrangements

Any changes to a child’s authorised collection arrangements must be communicated in writing to:

Changes must be communicated in advance wherever reasonably possible. For last-minute changes, parents/guardians must also ensure the relevant coach or authorised staff member is made aware before the child is released.

Parental Responsibilities

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their child is collected promptly at the scheduled session finish time.

Children must not be instructed to leave the designated coaching area to meet a parent/guardian in a car park, entrance or another part of the venue unless this forms part of an approved independent departure arrangement.

Behavioural, Welfare and Safeguarding Concerns

Where appropriate, coaches may communicate behavioural or welfare concerns to the parent/guardian or authorised adult collecting the child at the end of the session.

Safeguarding concerns will be managed in accordance with Titans Football Academy’s safeguarding procedures, including appropriate confidentiality and escalation to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Any urgent safeguarding concern will be escalated immediately and will not be delayed until collection.

Late Collection

Where a child has not been collected at the agreed time, Titans staff will follow the Academy’s Late Collection Procedure.

Children awaiting collection must remain appropriately supervised and must not be left unattended.

Missing Child Procedure

Titans Football Academy is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all children attending its sessions.

This procedure applies where a child who has joined a Titans coaching session cannot be accounted for, or where staff have reason to believe a child may be missing or at risk.

A child who does not attend a scheduled session will not automatically be considered missing. However, any information suggesting that a child has been dropped off at the venue but cannot be located, or may otherwise be at risk, will be treated as a safeguarding concern requiring immediate action.

1. Immediate Action

Where a child is believed to be missing, the responsible coach must immediately:

  • Notify the session lead or Designated Safeguarding Lead.

  • Check available attendance information and establish when and where the child was last seen.

  • Ensure all other children remain appropriately supervised.

  • Initiate the Missing Child Procedure without delay.

2. Initial Search

Staff will conduct an immediate, coordinated search of the designated coaching area and relevant surrounding areas, including toilets, changing facilities, entrances and exits where appropriate.

Venue staff will be notified and asked to assist where necessary.

Other children must remain appropriately supervised throughout the search and must not be asked to participate.

3. Age-Appropriate Safeguarding Response

Toddlers – Year 3

As parents/guardians or authorised adults are required to remain on-site throughout the session, they will be notified immediately if their child cannot be accounted for.

Any unexplained disappearance after the child has joined their coaching group will be treated as an urgent safeguarding concern.

Years 4–6

Where a child who has joined their coaching group cannot be accounted for, staff will initiate an immediate search and safeguarding response.

The child’s age, individual needs and circumstances will be considered when determining further action.

Years 7–10

Coaches will establish whether the child has an approved independent arrival or departure arrangement.

However, independent arrival or departure authorisation does not permit a child to leave a coached session unexpectedly without appropriate permission.

Any unexplained disappearance during a session will trigger immediate safeguarding action.

4. Parent/Guardian Notification

The child’s parent/guardian will be contacted as soon as possible and informed of the situation.

Staff will maintain appropriate communication with the parent/guardian throughout the incident.

5. Emergency Services

Where a child cannot be located promptly, or there is any indication that they may be in immediate danger, the police will be contacted without delay.

999 must be called immediately where there is an immediate risk to the child’s safety.

There is no requirement to wait for a specified period before contacting the police.

6. Safeguarding Escalation

The incident will be reported immediately to Titans Football Academy’s Designated Safeguarding Lead or Deputy DSL.

The safeguarding lead will coordinate any additional safeguarding action required, including liaison with parents, venue management, the police or relevant safeguarding authorities.

7. Incident Recording

A full written incident report will be completed, documenting:

  • The child’s name and relevant details.

  • The date, time and location of the incident.

  • When and where the child was last seen.

  • Actions taken and searches conducted.

  • Individuals and authorities contacted.

  • The outcome and any follow-up actions.

8. Follow-Up and Prevention

Following any missing child incident, Titans Football Academy will review the circumstances and implement any necessary improvements to its safeguarding, supervision or attendance procedures.

All staff are expected to follow these procedures, with the safety and welfare of every child remaining the highest priority.

Late Collection

Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring their children are collected promptly at the scheduled session finish time, unless an independent departure arrangement has been approved.

Where a child has not been collected, Titans Football Academy will take reasonable steps to contact the parent/guardian or authorised emergency contacts and ensure the child remains appropriately supervised.

Where collection cannot be arranged or safeguarding concerns arise, Titans ma …[truncated]