The NSPCC's Child Protection in Sport Unit has thrown its weight behind Safe Sport Day. Safe Sport Day, which took place on Thursday, August 8, is a global initiative aimed at ensuring the safety and wellbeing of young athletes. The NSPCC’s CPSU stated that this move is in line with their Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport campaign.
This campaign calls on UK sports and activity groups to prioritise the safeguarding of children and young people. The CPSU’s mission is to increase awareness of safeguarding practices in sports and UK activities and help clubs build trust-based relationships with parents, carers, and children. Michelle, head of the CPSU, said: "Ensuring children are safe in sport is the reason that we do what we do.
"As a partner with UNICEF and one of the founder members of the International Safeguards for Children in Sport, we are proud to support Safe Sport Day." This summer, the CPSU is promoting Team Huddles – community events to raise awareness of safeguarding and foster social connections. These events can take various forms, including watch-along parties for the Olympics, community fun days, fundraisers, or having the NSPCC present safeguarding workshops.
They aim to build connections, discuss safeguarding, and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for young athletes. To aid these initiatives, the CPSU provides free downloadable Team Huddle activity packs, designed to spark conversations about safeguarding and supervision, emphasising the importance of child welfare in sports. The NSPCC encourages local clubs to share their Team Huddle event details and photos on social media, using the hashtag #SafeinSport.
They should also tag the NSPCC on social media and inform local news and sports reporters of their activities. For further details regarding the Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport campaign or to schedule an NSPCC club visit, clubs can email [email protected].
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