It Is a Team Game: Safeguarding Leads’ Experiences of Implementation Within Football Member Associations

Abstract

Interpersonal violence is now widely acknowledged as a key concern throughout sport. In response, governing bodies have started to introduce safeguarding strategies. One such example is the FIFA Guardians programme, which aims to introduce stronger safeguarding measures throughout global football. The programme includes nominated learners from FIFA’s 211 Member Associations completing the FIFA Guardians Safeguarding in Football Diploma. There is a need to capture the experiences of people who are engaged in such initiatives. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the factors that shape the experiences of the Nominated FIFA Learners whose role is to implement safeguarding across their Member Association. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews (n = 40) across all six football confederation regions. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed six themes: enforcing rules and regulations, supporting relationships, tailoring the message, promoting safeguarding awareness, structuring the institutional setting, and acknowledging the context. Results also highlighted the interactive nature of the factors influencing safeguarding implementation at the Member Association level and the importance of alignment between the factors. The salience of these factors combines to create an environment within which safeguarding leads feel they can be more impactful. As such, there is a need for a multi-faceted approach, supported by a strategic alignment of these factors, so that everyone can play their part in ensuring that the safeguarding lead is a key member of an effective team.