The Swindon and District Community Football League is actively addressing safeguarding concerns surrounding changing facilities for players under 18.

Recently, incidents of overlapping fixture times and limited changing space have led to situations where under-18 players have had to share facilities with adults. This has raised significant safeguarding issues that both the league and the Wiltshire Senior League are keen to address.

Maria Lai, who has been instrumental in bringing these concerns to the forefront, has arranged a meeting involving both leagues to explore potential solutions. The Wiltshire Senior League Management Committee will discuss implementing a process for gaining the agreement of 16- and 17-year-olds participating in adult leagues to ensure they feel comfortable using shared changing areas with players over 18.

To help guide these decisions, the FA has issued a statement addressing changing arrangements for open-age teams, which may include 16- and 17-year-old players. The FA recommends the following:

“Where we are talking about open-age teams, which may contain 16- and 17-year-old players (legally children), we would expect a process to be followed to ensure the 16/17-year-old is happy to change in a space with older players, knows what to expect, and that the adult players also understand what is expected of them.

Where the 16/17-year-old is uncomfortable with this arrangement, the team should utilize alternatives, such as the 16/17-year-old arriving in kit or accessing an appropriate changing space at a different time.”

For clubs that use shared facilities, this guidance highlights the need for adapting league rules and club practices to prioritize player comfort and safety. With football evolving, the SDCFL recognizes the importance of updating these standards to reflect current needs. However, implementing these changes often depends on the facilities available.

In light of these concerns, we’re asking for feedback from all member clubs on how they’re managing these challenges.

Are you adjusting kick-off times, encouraging players to arrive in kit, or holding discussions with under-18 players about changing arrangements? Based on your responses, the league may consider implementing a poll to identify the most practical solutions.

By working together, we can ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all players. Let’s continue to make football a positive experience for everyone involved in our community.