Safeguarding Policy

FindaRef is a matchmaking platform only. We connect referees with organisers. We do not:

• Attend, supervise, or monitor fixtures
• Conduct DBS checks or verify safeguarding compliance
• Employ referees or act as their agent
• Provide safeguarding services

Safeguarding responsibility at all fixtures lies entirely with the organiser and, where applicable, parents or guardians.

No referee under 16 may be registered on or assigned via FindaRef.

Referees aged 16–17 may only use the platform when a parent or legal guardian creates and manages the account on their behalf. The parent or guardian is the legal contracting party and accepts full responsibility for supervision, welfare, transport, and consent.

Referees aged 18 and over may register and manage their account independently.

FindaRef does not verify age or parental authority. Users are responsible for providing accurate information.

A youth fixture is any sporting event involving participants under 18. Organisers must accurately declare whether a fixture involves minors when posting it on FindaRef.

For youth fixtures, organisers must ensure:

• A valid FA registration number has been provided by the assigned referee
• All relevant FA safeguarding requirements are met
• Appropriate DBS checks and safeguarding officers are in place
• Compliance with the organiser's own governing body rules

If an organiser incorrectly declares a youth fixture as adult-only, the organiser assumes full legal and safeguarding responsibility for any consequences.

Organisers are solely responsible for:

• Venue safety and risk assessment
• Supervision of all participants, including minors
• Compliance with The FA Safeguarding Policies and local authority requirements
• Ensuring appropriate safeguarding officers are present
• All DBS and vetting requirements for their staff and volunteers

FindaRef Ltd is not responsible for safeguarding arrangements at any fixture, regardless of whether the referee was matched through our platform.

Referees must provide a valid FA registration number to be matched to youth fixtures. By providing their FA number, referees confirm their registration is current and that they meet relevant safeguarding requirements for the grade listed.

FindaRef does not guarantee the accuracy of FA numbers provided. Organisers should independently verify referee suitability for youth fixtures where required by their governing body.

FindaRef does not arrange, supervise, or take liability for travel to or from fixtures. Transport is entirely the responsibility of the referee (or their parent/guardian if under 18) and the organiser, independently.

Users must not arrange lifts or transport for minors through the platform.

If you become aware of abuse, misconduct, or a safeguarding concern connected to a FindaRef fixture, report it immediately to:

• The organiser's designated safeguarding officer
• Your County Football Association
• The police or social services if there is immediate risk

You can also contact FindaRef at hello@findaref.co.uk for help identifying the correct authority. FindaRef does not investigate safeguarding concerns — reports received will be acknowledged and referred to the appropriate body.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, FindaRef Ltd accepts no liability for: safeguarding failures at fixtures, supervision of minors, conduct of users at events, venue safety, or travel incidents. Responsibility lies solely with organisers, referees, and parents or guardians.

Users who breach this policy — including misrepresenting fixture status, failing to declare youth involvement, or engaging in inappropriate conduct — may be immediately suspended or permanently removed from the platform. FindaRef may also refer matters to the relevant County FA or authorities.

This policy is governed by the laws of England and Wales.