NewsLiverpool FC honoured with International Safeguarding Award

The SACPA International Safeguarding Award recognises those that have demonstrated the values of safeguarding in international settings and contexts. Judges evaluated how safeguarding initiatives and outcomes have made a positive contribution globally by creating safe environments for children and vulnerable individuals.

As a key event in the safeguarding calendar, the SACPA Awards shine a spotlight on best practices and inspire continuous improvement across education, care and community sectors.

Liverpool FC International Academies provide more than 12,000 young players across five continents the opportunity to develop on and off the pitch under the guidance of LFC-trained coaching staff. With more than 600 adult coaches and staff operating across diverse languages, cultures and local safeguarding systems, creating consistent, high-quality safeguarding practice internationally has been a priority for the club.

LFC has developed a comprehensive safeguarding framework rooted in accessibility, collaboration and continuous improvement, ensuring the club's safeguarding values are embedded in every international setting. This includes appointing and training at least two Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) at each International Academy, providing year-round access to a multilingual safeguarding resource hub.

Plus, a digital reporting and case management system, delivering a Level 3 Designated Safeguarding Officer course for all international DSLs and UK-based International Academy staff, and hosting an annual UK convention in Liverpool where all DSLs receive bespoke in-person training from the club's director of safeguarding.

This year, the club enhanced this work further with a new programme of in-market, in-person quality assurance visits, providing direct mentorship, contextual guidance and additional training to staff on-site within their own Academy environments.

Jonathan Bamber, chief legal and external affairs officer at LFC, said: "I'm incredibly proud that LFC has been recognised for the International Safeguarding Award by SACPA. Safeguarding isn't just a responsibility, it's a commitment we live every day to ensure children, young people and adults at risk feel safe and supported.

"We strive to continue creating a positive, secure and inclusive environment for all throughout the club. This award reflects the dedication of our safeguarding team, our staff, coaches, volunteers and partners who work tirelessly every day to keep our young people and vulnerable groups safe."