Child Safeguarding Statement 2026
LEIXLIP UNITED – CHILD SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT 2026
Leixlip United, in accordance with the FAI Handbook, FAI Child Welfare and Safeguarding Policy, other FAI policies and procedures, and legislative requirements, has agreed this Child Safeguarding Statement which is binding on all members.
Leixlip United is a local football club providing coaching and participation on football teams where space is available. The club offers sporting activities to children and young people from the age of seven years old, with over 100 volunteers and more than 700 participants.
Leixlip United is committed to safeguarding children. By working under the guidance of our safeguarding policies and procedures, all staff and volunteers aim to create a safe and enjoyable environment for children and young people to participate in football.
PRINCIPLES TO SAFEGUARD CHILDREN FROM HARM
This statement recognises that, in accordance with legislation and FAI policies, the welfare and interests of children are paramount in all circumstances.
Leixlip United is founded on the following core principles:
- The needs of the child
- Integrity and respect
- A safe and positive environment
- Equality and inclusion
- Fair play
- Welfare and safety in football
These principles underpin all club rules, policies and procedures to ensure children participate in a safe and enjoyable environment.
RISK ASSESSMENT
Leixlip United has completed a risk assessment of potential risks of harm to children participating in club activities. This assessment was conducted on 30th April 2026 and reviewed under the following areas:
- Club and Coaching Practices
- Complaints and Discipline
- Reporting Procedures
- Use of Facilities
- Recruitment
- Communications
- General Risk of Harm
Identified Risks and Control Measures
Risk: Harm including assault, ill treatment, neglect or sexual abuse
Controls:
Controls:
- FAI Child Welfare & Safeguarding Policy
- FAI Concern & Complaint Policy
- FAI Governance Handbook
- Safeguarding training
Risk: Harm when hosting activities or away trips
Controls:
Controls:
- FAI Child Welfare & Safeguarding Policy
- FAI Concern & Complaint Policy
- Safeguarding training
Risk: Online abuse through social media
Controls:
Controls:
- FAI Child Welfare & Safeguarding Policy
- FAI Social Media Policy
Risk: Bullying of a child
Controls:
Controls:
- FAI Child Welfare & Safeguarding Policy
- FAI Concern & Complaint Policy
- FAI Social Media Policy
- FAI Handbook
FAI Policies and Resources
https://www.fai.ie/about/library/
https://www.fai.ie/about/library/
FAI Concern & Complaint Policy / Procedure:
https://d2w4iw8gs9jo14.cloudfront.net/6217/5154/1185/2025_CHILD_WELFARE_AND_SAFEGUARDING_POLICY_Poor_Practice-Conduct_-_Concern-Complaints.pdf
https://d2w4iw8gs9jo14.cloudfront.net/6217/5154/1185/2025_CHILD_WELFARE_AND_SAFEGUARDING_POLICY_Poor_Practice-Conduct_-_Concern-Complaints.pdf
FAI Communication & Social Media Policy:
https://d2w4iw8gs9jo14.cloudfront.net/1917/5154/9371/2025_CHILD_WELFARE_AND_SAFEGUARDING_POLICY_Communication_and_social_media.pdf
https://d2w4iw8gs9jo14.cloudfront.net/1917/5154/9371/2025_CHILD_WELFARE_AND_SAFEGUARDING_POLICY_Communication_and_social_media.pdf
FAI Governance Handbook 2026:
https://d2w4iw8gs9jo14.cloudfront.net/8417/7066/0981/Governance_Handbook_2026_-_V10_Update.pdf
https://d2w4iw8gs9jo14.cloudfront.net/8417/7066/0981/Governance_Handbook_2026_-_V10_Update.pdf
SAFEGUARDING PROCEDURES
This statement has been developed in line with the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance (2017), and Tusla guidance.
Leixlip United has the following procedures in place:
- Management of allegations of abuse or misconduct
- Safe recruitment and selection of staff and volunteers
- Provision of safeguarding training and awareness
- Reporting of child protection and welfare concerns
- Maintaining a list of mandated persons
- Appointment of a relevant person
All policies and procedures are available on request.
KEY CONTACTS
Mandated Person (FAI): Kirsten Pakes
Designated Liaison Person: Brian Sweeney
Designated Liaison Person: Brian Sweeney
IMPLEMENTATION AND REVIEW
Leixlip United recognises that safeguarding is an ongoing process. The club is committed to implementing this statement and associated policies to ensure children are kept safe.
This statement will be reviewed in April 2027 or earlier if required.
The statement is published on the club website, displayed on club premises, and made available to staff, volunteers, parents, Tusla, and members of the public on request.
APPROVAL
This statement has been reviewed and approved by:
Children’s Officer: Brian Sweeney
Safeguarding Officer: Paula Flood
Safeguarding Officer: Paula Flood
CONTACT
For further information, please contact:
Brian Sweeney
Phone: 085 769 9917
Email: brianlsweeney@icloud.com
Phone: 085 769 9917
Email: brianlsweeney@icloud.com
Leixlip United AFC
Founded 1969