Led by The Football Association, the Play Safe campaign is endorsed by the NSPCC and will be supported this weekend across every level of English football, including in the EFL, Premier League, Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship, and across the grassroots game. At the game at Crawley tomorrow, along with managers and captains throughout the English game over the weekend, Matt Gray will be wearing a Play Safe badge while U’s captain will have a Play Safe armband, a situation that will be repeated at all games over this weekend.

This season EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE – clubs and leagues at every level of the game, (and individuals if they wish) – is being asked to tell us what they are doing to make a difference over the Play Safe weekend and to share this via an online Play Safe Pledge.https://thefa.jotform.com/232111952202845)

The FA’s Survivor Support and Safeguarding Advisory Group (FASSSAG) continues to support Play Safe: “Creating safe environments in every football setting is a collective responsibility. It’s really important that every single person in football – no matter if they’re actively involved or on the sidelines – understands that they have an ongoing role to play. Knowing how to act on any concerns is vital and Play Safe is a key way to raise awareness so that everyone is vigilant and knows what to do if they become aware of any inappropriate behaviour.”

This year’s Play Safe weekend focuses on the safeguarding role EVERYONE has to play – coach, player, parent/carer, spectator or volunteer – to keep children and young people safe, no matter what the football setting. EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE, EVERYTIME is encouraged to WATCH, LISTEN, TALK and ACT if they have any safeguarding concerns.