#051Safeguarding - with Sally O’Donnell

🎙 Podcast Title: Safeguarding in Football with Sally O'Donnell

📍 Episode Summary:
In this essential episode of the Women's Football Hub podcast, host Carolyn Kent speaks with safeguarding consultant Sally O'Donnell about the importance of safeguarding across all levels of football—from grassroots to the professional game. With a powerful blend of personal experience and professional expertise, Sally breaks down what safeguarding really means, why it's often misunderstood, and how clubs can create safe, thriving environments for players and staff.

💬 Guest: Sally O'Donnell – Safeguarding Consultant & Founder of SO Training and Consulting

📌 Topics Covered:

• Why the word safeguarding makes people nervous—and why it shouldn’t

• Sally’s journey from criminal justice to football safeguarding

• What safeguarding looks like in a football academy and on match day

• Red flags to watch out for in coaching behaviour

• Key policies every football club should have in place

• Creating effective safeguarding cultures: safety, trust & collaboration

• How parents and caregivers can support safe environments

🔥 Standout Quotes:

“I’m there to be friendly, but I’m not there to be friends.”
“Would you accept that behavior from your child’s teacher? Then why accept it from a coach?”
“Safeguarding is not just about abuse—it’s about creating safe spaces where everyone thrives.”

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• FA Safeguarding Courses

• Sally’s consulting service: So Training and Consulting

📢 Call to Action:
If you're involved in football at any level, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you're a coach, parent, or club volunteer—safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

 

🔗 Connect with Sally: https://safeguarding-so.co.uk/play-it-safe/