Safeguarding Statement of Commitment

New Norfolk Panthers Soccer Club is committed to providing a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for all players, coaches, volunteers, officials, families, and visitors. We recognise our responsibility to protect children and young people from harm and to ensure their wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do. This commitment applies across all club activities—training, games, events, travel, communication, and online engagement.

1. Child Safety and Wellbeing We believe every child has the right to feel safe, respected, valued, and supported while participating in our club. We promote a culture where children’s voices are encouraged and listened to. We take all concerns or allegations of harm seriously and act promptly, following our reporting procedures.

2. Zero Tolerance for Abuse We have zero tolerance for any form of child abuse, neglect, bullying, discrimination, or inappropriate behaviour. All club members must uphold behaviour that reflects our values and safeguarding standards.

3. Safe People All coaches and volunteers working with children must hold a current WWVP/Working With Children Check. We ensure supervision ratios, role clarity, and ongoing training to support safe environments.

4. Safe Programs and Environments We deliver programs that prioritise wellbeing, development, and physical and emotional safety. We ensure our club spaces—fields, changerooms, canteens, travel settings, and digital platforms—are safe and monitored.

5. Respect, Inclusion, and Equity We ensure all children have equal opportunity to participate and thrive. We uphold respectful communication and behaviour across all club interactions.

6. Reporting and Responding We encourage reporting of concerns or unsafe behaviour without fear of reprisal. Our committee ensures all reports are handled confidentially, fairly, and in line with relevant requirements.

7. Continuous Improvement We regularly review and strengthen safeguarding practices, policies, and procedures. We commit to ongoing education and improvement in child safety standards. At New Norfolk Panthers Soccer Club, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. We all play a part in creating a safe, positive, and inclusive environment where every child can enjoy the game and reach their potential.