Sport should be a place where children feel safe, supported and encouraged to learn. For many young people, coaches play an important role not only in developing sporting skills but also in shaping confidence, friendships and personal growth. Because of this influence, coaches have a responsibility to ensure that the environments they create are safe and positive for every child.
Safeguarding in sport is about protecting children from harm while promoting their wellbeing and enjoyment. Within the ICOACHKIDS framework, keeping children safe is one of the fundamental pillars of good coaching practice. Coaches who understand safeguarding principles can help ensure that sport remains a positive experience that encourages lifelong participation.
Why Safety in Sport Matters
Children thrive in environments where they feel secure, respected and valued. When safety is prioritised, young athletes are more likely to enjoy their experiences in sport, develop confidence and continue participating.
However, risks can exist in any setting where children and adults interact. These risks may involve unsafe facilities, poor supervision, inappropriate behaviour or situations where boundaries are not clearly established. Without clear structures and awareness, these risks can negatively impact children’s wellbeing.
For this reason, safeguarding should be an integral part of coaching rather than an afterthought. By planning sessions carefully and following good safeguarding practices, coaches can significantly reduce potential risks.
Building Safe Coaching Environments
Creating a safe environment begins with thoughtful preparation and awareness. Coaches should regularly assess their coaching environment to ensure it is suitable for children.
Some key considerations include:
- Ensuring facilities and equipment are safe and appropriate
- Supervising children at all times during activities
- Maintaining clear professional boundaries with young athletes
- Communicating openly with parents and guardians
- Following safeguarding policies and procedures within the club or organisation
When these elements are in place, coaches help establish a culture where children feel protected and supported.
Positive Behaviour and Role Modelling
Children learn a great deal by observing the behaviour of the adults around them. Coaches who demonstrate respect, fairness and professionalism set a powerful example for their athletes.
Positive coaching behaviours include encouraging effort rather than focusing only on results, communicating respectfully, and treating every child equally regardless of ability. When coaches model these values consistently, they contribute to an inclusive and respectful team culture.
Such environments not only reduce risks but also enhance children’s overall enjoyment of sport.
Shared Responsibility
While coaches play a key role in safeguarding, protecting children is a shared responsibility. Clubs, organisations, parents and volunteers all contribute to creating safe sporting environments.
Clear safeguarding policies, training opportunities and open communication help ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities. When adults work together and remain vigilant, potential concerns can be addressed early and effectively.
Putting Kids First
The mission of the ICOACHKIDS movement is to promote coaching practices that put children first and prioritise their wellbeing, development and enjoyment of sport.
By committing to safe environments, positive relationships and responsible coaching practices, coaches help ensure that sport remains a place where children can learn, grow and have fun.
Ultimately, safeguarding is not just about preventing harm — it is about creating an environment where every child feels safe enough to enjoy sport and confident enough to reach their full potential.
With regards to safeguarding, that is, putting in place all the necessary measures to minimise the risk of harm to children, there are four main things we can do:
1) Education
2) Vetting
3) Safeguarding and Child Protection Policies
4) Risk Assessment
PLEASE NOTE
Safeguarding and Protecting Children in Sport, while important in every country, fits within a different best practice/legislative framework for each country. Because of this, please check the specific laws, policies and procedures that are applied in your country. Also check the information and advice provided by your sports sector and your sport’s national governing body/federation.
What is included here are GENERAL GUIDELINES. These are primarily based on UNICEF Safeguarding in Sport Guidelines.
Please see - https://www.unicef.org.uk/spor...;
