Northamptonshire FA - Designated Safeguarding Officer

The Football Association; Saint-Aignan-de-Cramesnil; Hybride; EUR 33 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A regional football association is looking for a Designated Safeguarding Officer to cover maternity leave. The role is crucial for upholding safeguarding standards in grassroots football. Candidates should have a safeguarding qualification and relevant experience, along with strong communication and organizational skills. This full-time position offers a salary of £28,000 and may allow for hybrid working arrangements. Applications are open until January 25, 2026, with interviews planned for early February.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of current safeguarding legislation and best practice.
• Experience managing safeguarding concerns and liaising with external agencies.
• Ability to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends.

Responsabilités

• Lead the implementation and delivery of safeguarding.
• Oversee DBS processes and manage compliance for clubs.
• Act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns.

Connaissances

Safeguarding qualification

Experience in child protection or welfare role

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Interpersonal skills

Outils

Microsoft Office

Description du poste

Designated Safeguarding Officer (Maternity Cover)

Location: Northamptonshire FA, 9 Duncan Close, Moulton Park, Northampton, NN3 6WL (Hybrid working may be possible)
Salary: £28,000
Contract: Full-time, 12-month maternity cover
Hours: 35 hours per week

About Northamptonshire FA

Northamptonshire FA is the not-for-profit governing body for football in the county. They oversee over 28,000 players across 2,000 teams, working with thousands of coaches, referees, volunteers, and clubs to ensure football is safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for all. The organisational strategy, Create the Feeling, puts people, places, pathways, and partnerships at the heart of everything they do.

The Opportunity

Northamptonshire FA are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO) to join the team on a maternity cover basis. This is a critical role ensuring that safeguarding standards are upheld across grassroots football in Northamptonshire.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and delivery of safeguarding across Northamptonshire FA, ensuring compliance with The FA's Safeguarding 365 Standard.
• Oversee DBS processes and manage safeguarding compliance for clubs, leagues, and individuals.
• Act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns, making referrals to statutory agencies and The FA Case Management Team.
• Maintain accurate records on The FA's CLUE system and ensure data protection compliance.
• Provide training, guidance, and support to Club and League Welfare Officers.
• Build strong relationships with local safeguarding partners and statutory agencies.
• Deliver CPD events and workshops to promote best practice in safeguarding.
• Ensure safeguarding is embedded across all Northamptonshire FA activities.

Further details can be seen in the attached recruitment pack at the bottom of the advert.

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Safeguarding qualification and/or experience in a child protection or welfare role.
• Knowledge of current safeguarding legislation and best practice.
• Experience managing safeguarding concerns and liaising with external agencies.
• Strong communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends.
• Competent IT skills (Microsoft Office).

Desirable:

• Completion of Designated Safeguarding Officer training (Level 2 & 3).
• Experience in football or sports safeguarding.
• Driving licence and access to a vehicle.

Additional Requirements:

• Enhanced DBS check required.

Personal Qualities

• Highly motivated, proactive, and able to remain calm under pressure.
• Excellent time management and prioritisation skills.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

Why Join Northamptonshire FA?

• Make a meaningful impact by creating safe and positive football environments.
• Be part of a forward-thinking County FA committed to safeguarding, equality, and inclusion.
• Access professional development opportunities and work with a supportive team.

How to Apply

Complete the and here or via the links in the recruitment pack attached below.
Closing date: Midnight, 25 January 2026
Interviews: 2 or 3 February 2026 (in person at Northamptonshire FA)

For an informal discussion, contact:

• Rosie Brown, Head of Safeguarding –
• Kirsty Clarke, CEO –

Northamptonshire FA is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. If you require reasonable adjustments, please get in touch via the emails above.