We are delighted to announce that Louise Docherty, Avro FC’s Head of Safer Sport and Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO), has been recognised by Manchester FA for her exceptional contribution to safeguarding at our club.
Louise was presented with a Special Recognition Award at our first team fixture against Ashton United on Wednesday evening, acknowledging the vital work she does behind the scenes to ensure football at Avro FC is played in a safe, welcoming and positive environment.
The award forms part of Manchester FA’s new initiative to shine a light on the incredible work of Club Welfare Officers across the region. Recognising that the role isn’t always an easy one and often doesn’t come with the thanks it deserves.
The initiative celebrates those who deal with difficult and sensitive situations, support players, parents, coaches and volunteers, and work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure everyone can enjoy football safely.
As our Head of Safer Sport and Designated Safeguarding Officer, Louise plays a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding across all levels of our club. From our youngest players to our senior teams, Louise ensures that Avro FC remains a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Her responsibilities include implementing safeguarding policies, providing support and guidance to coaches and volunteers, handling sensitive disclosures, and ensuring all club personnel are properly trained and DBS checked. It’s demanding work that requires dedication, discretion and an unwavering commitment to protecting those in our care.
The role of a Designated Safeguarding Officer is fundamental to football clubs like Avro FC. While the excitement happens on the pitch, it’s the work of people like Louise that creates the foundation of trust and safety that allows our club to flourish. She is often the first point of contact for concerns, the person who navigates complex situations with sensitivity, and the guardian of our club’s safeguarding culture.
Charlie O’Brien, Chief Operating Officer at Avro FC, said: “Louise’s recognition by Manchester FA is thoroughly deserved. The work she does often goes unseen, but it’s absolutely fundamental to everything we do at Avro FC. She handles incredibly sensitive situations with professionalism and compassion, and her dedication to keeping our players, coaches and volunteers safe is unwavering. Louise embodies the values of our club, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have her leading our safeguarding efforts. This award is a testament to the countless hours she dedicates to making Avro FC a safe place for everyone.”
Scott Dean, Designated Safeguarding Officer at Manchester FA, said: “Louise exemplifies everything we hoped to recognise through this initiative. Her commitment to safeguarding at Avro FC has been outstanding, and she consistently goes above and beyond in what can be a very demanding role. Club Welfare Officers like Louise are the unsung heroes of grassroots and non-league football – they deal with the difficult situations, provide crucial support when it’s needed most, and work tirelessly to maintain the safe environments that allow football to thrive. We’re proud to recognise Louise’s exceptional contribution, and we hope this award highlights the vital importance of safeguarding in football clubs across Greater Manchester.”
At Avro FC, safeguarding is not just a policy – it’s a core value that runs through everything we do. Louise’s recognition serves as a reminder of our ongoing commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and positive environment for everyone involved with our club.
We extend our congratulations to Louise and our thanks for her continued dedication to keeping our football family safe.
If you have any safeguarding concerns or questions, Louise can be contacted through the club’s official channels. Remember, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
