On Saturday 1st July 2023 the Bedfordshire Football Association held the first Safeguarding Conference which was held at University of Bedfordshire. The conference was well attended by over 40 Club Welfare Officers from several clubs across the county.

The day started with a presentation on Child and Mental Health presented by Kate Houghton who is an experienced Mental Health First Aid instructor, trainer, and workshop leader.

Wayne Polson followed as the next guest speaker. Wayne's role as Player Welfare Officer from Luton Town FC enabled him to give a great insight into how the club holistically supports their academy players to ensure their emotional, education and social needs are developed.

Emma Vase, Club Welfare Officer and Secretary from AFC Oakley shared practices they use within the club, this helped create some interesting discussions.

The final speaker for the day was Veronique Nani, Designated Safeguarding Officer at the Bedfordshire FA. The presentation focused on supporting clubs to understand threshold and how to manage Low Level Concerns.

The day also provided the opportunity for Club Welfare Officers to share good practice and to network further with others in the same role.

The day was a great success and a lovely way to finish the 2022/2023 season.