The Match Day Safeguarding Officer (MDSO) provides visible safeguarding leadership on match days, ensuring the welfare of children, young people, and adults at risk is prioritised at all times. The role acts as the first point of contact for safeguarding and welfare concerns and supports the event safety team in creating a safe, inclusive, and positive environment.
Key Responsibilities
Safeguarding & Welfare Oversight
* Act as the designated safeguarding point of contact on match days.
* Ensure safeguarding policies, procedures, and codes of conduct are implemented and followed.
* Be visible, approachable, and proactive throughout the event, particularly during peak spectator periods.
* Introduce themselves to the Venue Safety Officer and Match Manager on arrival.
* Attend and actively participate in pre-match safety briefings and post-event debriefs.
Responding to Concerns
* Receive safeguarding concerns or disclosures and respond appropriately.
* Take immediate action where there is a risk of harm, including contacting emergency services where necessary.
* Ensure all concerns are responded to, recorded, and reported in line with legislation, local procedures, and ECB guidance.
* Manage external referrals if required (e.g. Children’s Social Care, LADO, Adult Social Care)
* Maintain confidentiality and follow information-sharing protocols at all times.
Match-Day Monitoring & Support
* Patrol the venue proactively to identify potential safeguarding risks or concerns.
* Support the Venue Safety Officer and match-day team in responding to safeguarding or welfare incidents.
* Provide advice and guidance to staff and volunteers, increasing confidence in recognising, responding to, and recording safeguarding concerns.
* Be familiar with venue procedures for managing lost or missing children and provide support where required.
* Record incidents on Safety Culture
Incident Response
Respond to incidents with the wellbeing of the individual as the priority, including:
* Unaccompanied or missing children
* Ejections involving children or adults at risk
* Intoxication-related concerns involving children or adults at risk
* Welfare concerns involving adults at risk
Inclusion & Accessibility
* Support reasonable adjustments for participants with disabilities or additional needs.
* Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in line with governing body policies.
* Remain alert to specific risks (e.g. visually impaired players, guide dogs, mixed-age participation).
Post-Event Responsibilities
* Ensure safeguarding issues and learning are included in post-event reviews and feedback.
Requirements
Essential
* Strong communication and listening skills.
* Ability to remain calm, confident, and professional in challenging situations.
* Clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities relating to children and adults at risk.
* Ability to maintain accurate records and manage confidential information appropriately.
* Safeguarding qualification and/or relevant experience in a child protection, safeguarding, or welfare role.
Desirable
* Proven safeguarding experience within a sporting or event environment.
* Knowledge of cricket or similar match-day settings.
* Experience working with children, young people, or adults at risk.
* Completion of recognised Designated Safeguarding Officer training at Level 2 & 3.