Safeguarding in Sport Course

This online course has been written at an introductory level 1 for all levels that fit the criteria to take training as part of their role. This includes:

• Refresher training
• Inductions
• Awareness
• Knowledge enhancement

Safeguarding in Sport Training in the UK: Who is it For?

In the United Kingdom, Safeguarding in Sport Training is essential for individuals involved in sports organizations, clubs, and activities to ensure the safety and well-being of participants, particularly children and vulnerable adults. This training is designed to equip a range of professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a safe and inclusive environment within the sporting community. The following key groups and individuals are particularly suited to undertake Safeguarding in Sport Training:

1. Coaches and Sports Instructors: Coaches and sports instructors are responsible for the direct delivery of sports activities to participants, including children and young people. Safeguarding in Sport Training is crucial for coaches to understand their role in safeguarding, recognize signs of abuse or exploitation, implement appropriate safeguarding policies within their coaching practice, and ensure the well-being of all participants under their supervision.

2. Sports Club Officials and Administrators: Individuals involved in the management and administration of sports clubs, organizations, and events play a critical role in implementing safeguarding policies and procedures. Safeguarding in Sport Training provides club officials and administrators with the necessary knowledge to create a safe and secure environment, conduct thorough background checks on staff and volunteers, handle safeguarding concerns appropriately, and ensure compliance with relevant safeguarding legislation and guidelines.

3. Physical Education Teachers and School Sports Coordinators: Physical education teachers and school sports coordinators are responsible for delivering sports activities within educational settings. Safeguarding in Sport Training equips these professionals with the understanding of their safeguarding obligations, how to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns involving students, and how to collaborate with external agencies to ensure the welfare of young athletes both in and out of school.

4. Volunteers and Parent Helpers: Many sports clubs and organizations rely on volunteers and parent helpers to support the delivery of sports programs. Safeguarding in Sport Training is essential for volunteers to understand their role in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, maintain boundaries with participants, and report any safeguarding concerns to designated safeguarding officers within the organization.

5. Sports Psychologists and Support Staff: Professionals providing sports psychology services or other forms of support within the sporting environment need to be aware of safeguarding issues that may arise. Safeguarding in Sport Training enables these professionals to recognize the signs of emotional and psychological abuse, maintain confidentiality while upholding safeguarding responsibilities, and work in partnership with other safeguarding professionals to ensure the well-being of athletes under their care.

6. Sports Medical Personnel: Physiotherapists, doctors, and sports medical staff working within sports teams or clubs require specialized training on safeguarding in sport. This training ensures that medical professionals understand how to recognize signs of physical abuse or neglect in athletes, maintain appropriate professional boundaries, and follow safeguarding reporting procedures in cases of injury or suspected abuse.

7. National Governing Body Officials: Representatives from national governing bodies of sports oversee the development and implementation of safeguarding policies across affiliated clubs and organizations. Safeguarding in Sport Training is crucial for these officials to ensure that consistent safeguarding standards are upheld across the sport, provide guidance and support to affiliated clubs, and respond effectively to safeguarding incidents within the sport.

Safeguarding in Sport Training is tailored to individuals working within the sports industry to promote a culture of safety, respect, and inclusion for all participants. By equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and respond to safeguarding concerns, this training contributes to creating a positive and secure environment for individuals engaging in sports activities in the UK.