Walthamstow FC – Use of Photography and Filming Policy
1. Introduction Walthamstow FC recognises the importance of photography and filming in celebrating achievements, promoting the club, and supporting player development. However, we are also committed to ensuring the safety and privacy of children and young people. This policy outlines our approach to the responsible use of photography and filming.
2. General Principles
- The club supports appropriate photography and filming but acknowledges the risks associated with misuse.
- All individuals capturing images or video must adhere to this policy and The FA’s guidelines on safeguarding.
- The welfare of children is paramount, and their dignity, privacy, and safety must be maintained.
3. Parental Consent
- Written consent must be obtained from parents/carers before any child is photographed or filmed for club-related purposes.
- Parents/carers should be informed about how images will be used, stored, and shared.
- Children under legal restrictions (e.g., in local authority care) must not have their images placed in the public domain.
4. Appropriate Photography and Filming
- All individuals featured must be appropriately dressed (minimum vest or shirt and shorts).
- Photography and filming should focus on the game, training, or club activities rather than individual players unless consent has been given.
- Group images are preferred over individual shots.
- No images should be taken in changing rooms, showers, or toilets.
5. Commissioning Professional Photographers and Media
- Professional photographers/media invited to cover events must adhere to safeguarding principles.
- They must be briefed on acceptable conduct and content.
- They must wear identification at all times.
- No one should have unsupervised access to children.
6. Storage and Use of Images
- Images must be stored securely, with access limited to authorized personnel.
- Digital images should be stored in protected folders and not on unencrypted portable devices.
- Images should only be used for their intended purpose and not repurposed without consent.
7. Social Media and Online Sharing
- Parents/carers should be made aware of the risks of sharing images of children online.
- No personal details (e.g., full name, address) should accompany published images.
- The club will monitor its official social media pages to prevent misuse of images.
8. Responding to Concerns
- Any concerns regarding inappropriate photography or filming should be reported to the Club Welfare Officer.
- In cases where illegal or abusive content is suspected, concerns will be escalated to the police and relevant safeguarding bodies.
- Individuals violating this policy may face disciplinary action.
9. Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective and aligned with best practices in safeguarding children in football.
For any concerns or further information, please contact the Club Welfare Officer at Walthamstow FC.
