Top tips for recruiting a Welfare Officer

Recruiting a volunteer Club Welfare Officer is an important step in creating a safe and inclusive environment for your squash club. Explore our expert tips on appointing the right person.

Define the role clearly

• Outline the responsibilities, such as safeguarding participants, ensuring safeguarding policies are followed (they don’t have to write them – we’ve taken care of that), and serving as a point of contact for concerns, with the full support of the England Squash Resources and our Safeguarding Manager Sarah if needed.
• Highlight the importance of this role in fostering a positive, safe sporting environment.

Target the right audience

• Look within your current network of members, parents, or supporters. Someone already involved with the club might have a vested interest in its welfare BUT remember that your Club Welfare Officer can be someone who is not even involved in squash – they might just want to help!
• Post the opportunity on community boards, local social media groups, local printed newsletters/magazines or volunteer websites.
• Ask local schools to advertise the opportunity.

Emphasise the impact

• Showcase how this role contributes to the wellbeing of participants and the club’s overall success.
• Mention any benefits, like gaining valuable experience, making a difference in the community, or receiving training.

Provide support and training

• Let potential volunteers know they’ll be supported in the role. Let them know that England Squash will offer guidance and access to training courses, such as safeguarding and welfare workshops as well as resources and guidance documents to help support them in their role. Be sure to tell the person who manages your England Squash club account on englandsquash.com to list your new recruit as a Welfare Officer under 'Manage Admins'- this helps to ensure they receive our Safe Squash newsletter and other important Welfare Officer communications.
• Be transparent about commitment
• Clearly state the time commitment expected, whether it’s attending meetings, handling concerns, or communicating with members.

Celebrate the role

• Make the role visible and valued within your club. Show appreciation through acknowledgment at events, newsletters, or awardsFor more guidance on creating a safe environment at your club, visit our Safe Squash microsite.