📱 Child Welfare - Safe & Responsible Phone Use
We live in a world dominated by phones. While they help us communicate and stay organised as a club, they also introduce risks, for the club, for our coaches and our players. The points below highlight some of those risks and how we look to mitigate them.
1) Correct Communication Tools
Where possible, Stepaside F.C. prioritises the use ofClubZap for all team communications.
- GDPR compliant – contact details are protected (unlike WhatsApp groups where numbers are visible).
- More focused communication – reduces off-topic chats common in WhatsApp groups.
- Message accountability – messages are preserved and cannot be deleted.
2) Communicating with Players (Under 18)
As players get older and begin using phones, it’s essential that Coaches and Parents work closely on these points. Ultimately Parents are responsible for the correct use of a phone by their child.
- 🚫 No phones in changing rooms, showers, or toilets at any time.
- 📸 Social media rules – players should not post photos or content involving teammates or coaches without permission. Coaches should also be mindful of their public social media.
- 👨👩👧 No direct contact with players
- Always communicate through parents/guardians.
- A player is considered a child until age 18.
- If a child contacts you directly, do not respond—contact the parent instead and explain why this is inappropriate.
- Parents should never pass a coaches contact details directly to their child.
- ❌ No coaches in player WhatsApp groups
- Players may have their own groups, but coaches must not be part of them.
3) Dealing with Bullying
Phone use can sometimes lead to bullying within teams.
- This must never be ignored.
- As a coach, you have a duty of care to act.
- Address concerns early, involve parents where needed, and seek support if necessary.
- Full support expected from parents of any child engaging in bullying
Final Reminder
If your child has a phone:
- Coaches will look to set clear expectations with parents.
- Coaches should be sharing guidance with parents in team communications.
- Coaches may consider holding a parent meeting if needed.
Thank you for your support,
Colman
Child Welfare Officer
