1. Policy Statement
First Kick Football is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for children, families, staff, and visitors. Smoking, alcohol, and illegal drugs are not permitted on our premises, in vehicles used for transporting children, or during any activities organised by the club.
This policy promotes health and safety, safeguards children, and ensures compliance with legislation.
2. Legislative Framework
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Children Act 1989 & 2004
- Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS 2024)
- Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE 2025)
- Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023)
- Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
3. Smoking
- Smoking (including e-cigarettes/vaping) is not permitted on club premises, in vehicles, or during activities.
- Staff must not smell of smoke or vape when working with children.
- Parents/carers and visitors are asked not to smoke on site.
4. Alcohol
- Staff must not consume alcohol immediately before or during working hours.
- Staff under the influence of alcohol will be sent home and subject to disciplinary action.
- Parents/carers under the influence of alcohol may not collect children; alternative arrangements will be made.
- Alcohol may not be brought onto club premises.
5. Drugs and Other Substances
- Illegal drugs are strictly prohibited.
- The misuse of prescription medication or substances (including solvents) is not tolerated.
- Staff using medication that may affect their ability to care for children must inform management. A risk assessment will be carried out.
- Parents/carers under the influence of drugs will not be allowed to collect children; safeguarding procedures will be followed.
6. Responsibilities
- Operations Director – overall responsibility for implementation and compliance.
- HR & Coaching Performance Manager / Welfare Officer (Danny Nolan) – ensures staff training, disciplinary follow-up, and safeguarding procedures are applied.
- Holiday Club Manager (Lee Galloway) – monitors staff and visitors on site, enforces rules at clubs.
- All Staff – must comply with this policy and report concerns immediately.
7. Disciplinary Action
Breaches of this policy will be dealt with under the Staff Disciplinary Policy. Gross misconduct may lead to dismissal.
8. Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if required by law or inspection.