INTRODUCING OUR NEW DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING OFFICER, Liz Barnett 

The Gloucestershire FA is pleased to welcome our new Designated Safeguarding Officer, Liz Barnett.

Liz brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of everyone involved in football across the county. She said about the role: 

I am really pleased to be working at Gloucestershire FA as I have a keen interest in Women’s football as well as providing a supporting role in my girls’ grassroots team.  A lot of my free time is spent with my family, at the side of a football pitch. 

My previous roles have been as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead within a school and working for a Local Authority supporting childcare settings with their Safeguarding and welfare.  Safeguarding has been of key importance in the roles throughout my career.  I am looking forward to working with Clubs and Welfare Officers to continue to uphold the excellent safeguarding standards set within Gloucestershire FA. 

She will be responsible for overseeing and implementing our safeguarding policies, providing support and guidance to clubs, and ensuring that we maintain the highest standards of safety for all participants. She will work closely with our clubs, coaches, and volunteers to create a safe and inclusive environment for all. 

We’d also like to pass on our thanks to our previous DSO, Gemma Szakacs, for all her efforts in the role during her time with the GFA. 

For queries relating to Safeguarding and Welfare, please email Safeguarding@GloucestershireFA.com and visit our dedicated Safeguarding page for more information on best practices, policies and support in the County.  

SAFEGUARDING AND WELFARE