In recent years, safeguarding in sport has emerged as a critical issue, with increasing awareness around protecting children and vulnerable individuals from various kinds of abuse.
The landscape of safeguarding is evolving, driven by high-profile cases, such as the FA in 2021, British Gymnastics in 2022 and Swim England in 2024, a growing understanding of the various forms of abuse that can occur in sports settings. As organisations strive to create safe environments, it is essential to understand the current landscape, identify potential risks, and implement effective risk mitigation strategies.
How safeguarding in sport is evolving
The safeguarding landscape is marked by a heightened awareness of the risks associated with various forms of abuse, including emotional, physical, sexual, and neglect. Abuse among children in the UK has risen, and this critical issue is further amplified by social media, which has become a powerful tool for raising awareness and sharing experiences. Because that way we are still demonstrating the importance of the issue in this region, but not misrepresenting its relationship to sports...and I think we can leave the "high-profile" part as is.
The competitive nature of sports can create environments where power imbalances exist, particularly between coaches and athletes. Situations that foster isolation, such as one-on-one coaching sessions or overnight stays during competitions, can further exacerbate these risks. As such, it is crucial for sports clubs to recognise these vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to safeguard their members.
Potential risks to consider
Sports organisations must be vigilant in identifying potential signs of abuse. Key indicators may include:
- Emotional abuse: Look for signs of body shaming, inappropriate criticism, or bullying behaviour from coaches or peers.
- Physical abuse: Be aware of over-training practices or inappropriate training techniques that could harm athletes.
- Sexual abuse: Recognise the signs of indecent touching or inappropriate relationships between coaches and athletes.
- Neglect: Watch for warning signs such as an athlete’s unkempt appearance or reluctance to attend training sessions, which may indicate issues at home.
Four risk mitigation strategies
Sports organisations should implement a comprehensive approach to mitigating safety risks. This approach should outline the following:
- Clear policies and robust reporting procedures: Establish safeguarding policies that outline the organisation's commitment to protecting members and the procedures for reporting concerns. Ensure that all staff and members know how to report issues and that there are designated safeguarding leads within the organisation.
- Training and education: Regularly train staff, coaches, and volunteers on safeguarding practices, including recognising signs of abuse and proper reporting procedures. This training should also extend to athletes, empowering them to speak up if they feel unsafe.
- A safety-first culture: Foster an inclusive and supportive culture within the club, where athletes feel comfortable discussing their concerns. Encourage open communication and ensure that all members understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Regular reviews and audits: Conduct regular reviews of safeguarding policies and practices to ensure they remain effective and compliant with current legislation and best practices.
Educating staff and volunteers
Education is a cornerstone of effective safeguarding. Sports clubs should prioritise training for all staff and volunteers, ensuring they understand the importance of safeguarding and their role in protecting members.
This training should cover:
- The types of abuse and their signs.
- The procedures for reporting concerns.
- The importance of creating a positive and supportive environment.
Additionally, educating athletes about their rights and the importance of speaking up can empower them to take an active role in their own safeguarding. Workshops, seminars, and informational materials can be effective tools for raising awareness and fostering a culture of safety.
Conclusion
Safeguarding in sport is a shared responsibility that requires commitment from all levels of an organisation. By understanding the current landscape, recognising potential risks, and implementing effective mitigation strategies, sports clubs can create a safe environment for all participants.
If you are looking to enhance your safeguarding practices or need guidance on compliance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your Marsh advisor. Together, we can ensure that safeguarding remains a priority in the world of sport, protecting those who participate and fostering a culture of safety and respect.