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Data controller

Academy Juniors FC, Blackrod Sports & Community Centre, Greenbarn Way, Blackrod BL6 5TG.
Email: football@academyjuniors.co.uk

Lawful basis for processing

We process personal data under the following lawful bases:
Consent – data collected via registration and consent forms.
Legitimate interest – day-to-day club administration, safeguarding, and communication necessary to run the club.

Children's data

Academy Juniors FC is a youth football club and we routinely collect personal data relating to children under 18. We only collect children's data with explicit parental or guardian consent. Parents/guardians may withdraw consent or request deletion of their child's data at any time by contacting us.

What data we collect

We collect the following categories of personal data:

• Full names (player, parent/guardian)
• Dates of birth
• Contact details (phone numbers, email addresses, postal addresses)
• Medical and health information relevant to safe participation
• Emergency contact details
• Photography and video consent preferences
• FA registration data (FAN numbers)

How we use your data

Personal data is used for:

• Club administration and team management
• FA player registration
• Communication about training, matches and club events
• Safeguarding and child protection
• Emergency contact in case of injury or incident
• Kit ordering and distribution

We never sell or share personal data with third parties for marketing purposes.

Data processors

We use the following third-party services to process data on our behalf:

• Google (Sheets, Gmail) – member records and communication
• Netlify – website hosting and form submissions
• Macron – kit orders and delivery

Data retention

Personal data is retained for the duration of membership plus 3 years. After this period, all data is securely deleted. If you leave the club, your data will be removed 3 years after your last active season unless required for safeguarding or legal purposes.

Cookies

This website uses a single analytics cookie (Google Analytics 4) to understand how visitors use the site. This cookie is only loaded if you give explicit consent via the cookie banner. No tracking occurs without your consent. You can withdraw consent at any time using the "Manage cookies" link in the footer.

Your rights

Under UK GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access – request a copy of the personal data we hold about you
• Rectification – request correction of inaccurate data
• Erasure – request deletion of your data ("right to be forgotten")
• Portability – request your data in a machine-readable format
• Objection – object to processing based on legitimate interest
• Complaint – lodge a complaint with the ICO (ico.org.uk)

To exercise any of these rights, email football@academyjuniors.co.uk with the subject "Data Request". We will respond within 30 days.

Data breach procedure

In the event of a personal data breach, we will notify the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) within 72 hours where feasible. If the breach is likely to result in a high risk to your rights and freedoms, we will also notify affected individuals without undue delay.

Last updated: May 2026

Academy Juniors FC is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all children and young people in our care. We believe every child has the right to participate in football in a safe, positive and enjoyable environment.

Our commitment

• All coaches and volunteers are DBS-checked and FA safeguarding certified
• We follow the FA's Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures
• We have a designated Club Welfare Officer
• We operate a clear reporting procedure for concerns
• We promote a culture of openness and inclusion

Reporting concerns

If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact our Club Welfare Officer at ajs.safeguarding.wellbeing@gmail.com or the Bolton Safeguarding line on 01204 337479.

Codes of conduct

All players, parents, coaches and spectators are expected to adhere to our codes of conduct. These promote respect, fair play and positive behaviour at all times — on and off the pitch.

Last updated: May 2026

Academy Juniors FC has a zero-tolerance approach to bullying of any kind. We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all our players so they can participate in football in a relaxed and secure atmosphere.

What is bullying?

Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. It can be physical, verbal, emotional or cyber-based. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim and is never acceptable.

Our approach

• All reports of bullying are taken seriously and investigated promptly
• We support the victim and work with the bully to change behaviour
• Parents/guardians of all parties will be informed and involved
• Persistent bullying may result in suspension or removal from the club
• We educate players about respect, inclusion and kindness

How to report

If your child is being bullied, or you suspect bullying is taking place, please speak to any coach or contact our Welfare Officer at ajs.safeguarding.wellbeing@gmail.com. All reports are treated confidentially.

Last updated: May 2026