1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that children, young people, parents, and carers are actively involved in shaping the services provided by First Kick Football. We value the voice of every child and family and are committed to creating inclusive opportunities for participation in decision-making.
2. Legislative Framework
- Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS 2024) – Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE 2025)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
- Equality Act 2010
- UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 12 – Right to be Heard)
3. Principles
- Every child and family has the right to be heard, respected, and included in decision-making.
- Participation will be age-appropriate, inclusive, and accessible to all children regardless of ability, background, or needs.
- Feedback from children and families will be acted upon, and outcomes will be shared transparently.
- Staff will be trained to encourage children’s participation and to create a culture of listening and respect.
4. Methods of Participation
- Children’s Voice – opportunities for children to express views through discussions, suggestion boxes, and child-led activities.
- Parental Engagement – consultation with parents/carers via meetings, surveys, and feedback channels.
- Staff Involvement – encouraging staff to share ideas and contribute to service development.
- Community Links – working with partners and stakeholders to ensure services reflect local needs.
5. Roles & Responsibilities
- Operations Director – oversees implementation of this policy and ensures participation is embedded across services.
- Director of Office Operations (Claire) – coordinates consultation processes and ensures outcomes inform office and admin planning.
- Head of Foundation (Tom Hutton) – ensures community projects and partnerships reflect participation feedback.
- Head of Mini Kickers (Chris Ganner) – ensures the Mini Kickers programme incorporates child and parent voice in its development.
- Holiday Club Managers – create opportunities for children and parents to contribute feedback at site level.
- All Staff – actively listen to children, record feedback, and promote inclusive participation.
6. Monitoring and Review
Participation activities will be monitored regularly, and outcomes will feed into service planning and evaluation. This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required.