CEOP, the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre, partners with football organisations like The FA and League Football Education (LFE) to protect children from online abuse within the sport. CEOP educates young players, parents, and fans about online risks through programs like Thinkuknow, while The FA provides guidance on reporting concerns and offers contact details for their safeguarding team and local County FAs. If you’re in the UK and have a concern about a child’s online safety within football, you can visit the CEOP Safety Centre or contact The FA’s safeguarding team at safeguarding@TheFA.com
What is CEOP and its role in football?
CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection)
- Is part of the UK Police, working to protect children from online exploitation.
- They partner with various organisations, including football bodies, to deliver education and support.
- CEOP’s educational program, Thinkuknow, helps children, young people, parents, carers, and fans understand the risks of the internet and how to stay safe.
How does CEOP work with football?
The FA (Football Association)
- works with CEOP to safeguard children involved in football.
League Football Education (LFE)
- collaborates with CEOP to provide education to apprentices, clubs, and parents about online safety.
County FAs
- Birmingham County FA also have designated safeguarding officers who can be contacted to report concerns.
How to get help or report a concern:
Visit the CEOP Safety Centre:
- For specific advice or to report concerns about online abuse, visit the CEOP Safety Centre.
Contact The FA:
- You can email The FA’s safeguarding team directly at safeguarding@TheFA.com.
Contact your County FA:
- Birmingham County FA also has safeguarding officers who can assist.
For immediate danger:
- If a child is in immediate danger, call the police on 999.