Safeguarding & Protecting Children in Sport

Guidance, procedures, and best practices to keep children safe in sporting environments.

How Parents Can Support Safeguarding in Sport and Activities

Parents play a vital role in creating safe, positive environments where children can thrive. Your active involvement not only boosts your child’s confidence and enjoyment but also strengthens the overall culture of safety in your community.

Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines, helping with transport, or volunteering at events, your presence matters.

Here’s how you can support safeguarding efforts:

Stay Informed

Learn about the safeguarding policies and procedures of your child’s club or activity. Know who the Club Welfare Officers or Designated Safeguarding Lead is and how to raise concerns.

Communicate Openly

Keep regular, open conversations with your child about their experiences. Encourage them to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

Build Relationships

Get to know the coaches, staff, and other parents. A strong, connected community helps ensure everyone is looking out for each other’s children.

Promote Safe Boundaries

Reinforce the importance of respectful behaviour and appropriate boundaries, both on and off the field.

Be a Role Model

Demonstrate positive behaviour and support fair play, inclusion, and respect for all participants.

Know Where to Get Help

Be aware of where to go for advice or to report concerns, whether that’s the Club Welfare Officer, local authorities, or organisations like the NSPCC.