The Association of Irish Powerchair Football (AIPF) is fully committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of all participants in our sport. We recognise our responsibility to safeguard children and vulnerable adults involved in powerchair football and to provide a safe and positive environment for everyone.
Our Commitment
AIPF is committed to implementing best practice in safeguarding in accordance with the Children First Act 2015, Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2017), the Sport Ireland Safeguarding Guidance for Children and Young People in Sport, and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) Safeguarding Framework. This Safeguarding Statement is supported by our detailed AIPF Safeguarding Policy & Procedures and the AIPF Complaints Policy & Procedure.
Nature of Our Activities
AIPF operates as the national governing body for powerchair football in Ireland.
Our activities include the organisation of leagues, competitions, national and development team training, community engagement, and club support. Participants include both children and adults with physical disabilities, some of whom may be vulnerable adults requiring additional support.
Risk Assessment
AIPF has carried out a written risk assessment of its activities to identify potential risks to children and vulnerable adults, and to implement procedures to reduce the likelihood of harm. This assessment will be reviewed annually or sooner if significant changes occur.
Our Procedures Include:
- Safe recruitment and Garda vetting of all staff, volunteers, and coaches.
- Mandatory safeguarding training for all personnel working with children or vulnerable adults.
- Procedures for responding to and reporting child protection or welfare concerns to the Child Protection Officer (CPO) and statutory agencies.
- Code of Conduct for players, coaches, parents, officials, and volunteers.
- Procedures for managing complaints, concerns, and allegations (as outlined in the AIPF Complaints Policy).
- Guidelines for communications, social media, and data protection in line with GDPR.
Designated Contacts
| Role | Name | Contact Email |
| Child Protection Officer (CPO) | Emma Smith | cpo@aipf.ie |
| Complaints Officer | To be appointed | report@aipf.ie |
| AIPF Board Chairperson | Julie Nicholson | – |
Review and Approval
This Safeguarding Statement and associated risk assessment will be reviewed annually by the AIPF Board or sooner if material changes occur.
It is approved and signed on behalf of the Board by the Chairperson and Child Protection Officer.
Approved by: AIPF Board of Directors
Date of Approval: February 18th, 2026
Next Review: February 2027