Safeguarding

Safeguarding: protecting minors and vulnerable individuals in sport

As an amateur sports association, we have been active for over ten years. We have always been committed to spreading the culture of sport and its values. For this reason, in compliance with current regulations, we have taken an active role by implementing SAFEGUARDING procedures.

What is safeguarding?

The term “safeguarding” refers to a set of measures and procedures aimed at protecting minors from all forms of abuse, violence, and discrimination, particularly within contexts such as Amateur Sports Associations (ASD).

Why is safeguarding important in sports associations?

It is essential to ensure a safe and protected environment for everyone, where children and adolescents can grow up peacefully and without fear. Safeguarding aims to:

• Prevent: Identify and manage risk factors to prevent abuse and violence.
• Protect: Implement concrete measures to safeguard minors and ensure their safety.
• Educate: Raise awareness among all stakeholders (coaches, managers, parents) about the importance of safeguarding and provide them with the tools needed to recognise and report potential risk situations.

What are the main forms of abuse in sport?

• Physical abuse: Beatings, injuries, excessive physical pressure.
• Sexual abuse: Acts of a sexual nature, harassment, grooming.
• Psychological abuse: Insults, humiliation, discrimination, excessive psychological pressure.
• Negligence: Lack of adequate care, exposure to unnecessary risks.

What must sports associations do?

• Appoint a safeguarding officer: A reference figure within the association responsible for preventing and managing any cases of abuse.
• Staff training: Organise training courses for coaches, managers, and volunteers.
• Code of ethics: Adopt a code of ethics that defines appropriate and unacceptable behaviour.
• Reporting procedures: Establish clear procedures for reporting any cases of abuse, ensuring maximum confidentiality and protection of victims.