RUTH MARTIN has been a Boro fan for as long as she can remember.
Not wanting to be drawn on too many favourites, she highlights Gareth Southgate as the one who, for her, stands out (though Franck Queudrue isn’t far behind).
The new safeguarding officer for Middlesbrough Football Club and MFC Foundation will draw on many of the values of the one-time Boro skipper and manager, and personal management skills so evident in the man now in charge of the men’s national team.
“I’ve been a Boro fan from birth,” says Ruth. “I can remember going to Ayresome Park on a booster seat and had a season ticket at the Riverside for the first five or six years.
“Gareth has always been a shining example in the game for many years, he’s someone to look up to.
“Working for the Boro is great, but that’s not the reason I’m here. Bringing the skills I’ve acquired back to my club in my home town is a bit special of course, but I’m here to support the club and the Foundation.”
So what is Ruth’s background, what are the skills she refers to?
“My background is in education. I’ve worked in education and schools for the last 10-15 years. I’ve been involved in a lot of youth work, play schemes in Middlesbrough, qualifying as a teacher and working in schools in Stockton and North Yorkshire.
“I’ve worked with young people, schoolchildren in lots of different areas and scenarios. I’m also fully conversant with Policy and Procedure.
“I see my role as making sure the club and Foundation are happy, safe and secure places to be, to work in and be involved with. That’s where safeguarding extends beyond young people, it covers staff, volunteers, participants and anyone associated with the club.”
Fresh from a course to add another speciality to her CV, Ruth is now fully qualified to work with people with disabilities who have any safeguarding questions or concerns.
You can contact Ruth anytime at safeguarding@mfc.co.uk