Safeguarding children in sport
Ensuring Child Safety in Sports
Organizations bear the critical responsibility of safeguarding children, ensuring that their staff, operations, and programs prioritize the protection of minors. This entails creating environments free from harm and abuse, where children are not exposed to risks, and promptly addressing any safety concerns within the communities they serve.
Moreover, the sports movement is tasked with ensuring the safety and well-being of children in sports settings. This involves implementing robust safeguarding procedures to mitigate physical and emotional risks, providing comprehensive training and guidelines for sports organizations, and offering support to children affected by violence or abuse within the sporting context.
However, despite the existence of policies and strategies, translating them into tangible actions remains a challenge for many National Olympic Committees. Our project, ‘Safeguarding children in sport’ (GUARD), seeks to address this challenge by establishing Child Safeguarding Officer structures within national sport systems, facilitating the practical implementation of safeguarding measures to protect young athletes effectively.
Safeguarding Children in Sport
Developing Safeguarding Systems
GUARD is dedicated to enhancing child safeguarding in sports by providing guidance and training to establish robust safeguarding structures within national sport organizations. Our aim is to create a safe and secure environment for children participating in sports activities.
Practical Implementation
We are committed to facilitating the practical implementation of child safeguarding strategies, ensuring the establishment of a well-functioning system and structure of competent Child Safeguarding Officers (CSOs) across participating countries. Through coordinated efforts, we aim to build a network of trained CSOs equipped to protect young athletes effectively.
Building a Network
Partnering with National Olympic Committees, GUARD will train individuals in National Federations to become CSOs, who will then train personnel in affiliated sport clubs. By providing essential guidance, resources, and support, we endeavor to cultivate a strong network of CSOs throughout Europe, fostering a culture of child safety in sports.
will be trained annually by NF for sport clubs, utilizing regional federations to expedite the process, in the 5 years.
by the project will benefit from enhanced safety measures and a supportive environment in sports activities, fostering their well-being and enjoyment.
Five Essential Steps of the project
Establishing Protocols for Organizational Safeguarding
Develop comprehensive guidance and procedures to ensure the safety and protection of children within sport organizations, setting clear standards for best practices.
Implementing an Effective Response System
Create a structured case response and management system to address concerns and incidents related to child safeguarding, ensuring swift and appropriate action.
Empowering Child Safeguarding Officers
Provide individuals in CSO roles with access to advice, support, and relevant information to effectively carry out their responsibilities and address safeguarding issues.
Establishing National Standards
Define the role, job description, and required competencies for Child Safeguarding Officers at the national level, ensuring consistency and clarity in their duties.
Developing Comprehensive Training Resources
Establish training standards for CSOs at the national level and develop comprehensive training materials to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to safeguard children effectively.
