In children’s sport, the role of the coach extends far beyond teaching skills and organising training sessions. Coaches play a critical role in safeguarding children and ensuring that sport is a positive, safe and enriching experience for every participant. The video “Staying Safe as a Coach” highlights why safeguarding is essential and how coaches can take practical steps to protect both the children they work with and themselves.
At the heart of youth sport is the responsibility to create an environment where children feel safe, respected and supported. Coaches often hold positions of trust, meaning their actions, decisions and behaviours directly influence the wellbeing of young participants. Within initiatives such as ICOACHKIDS, safeguarding is recognised as a fundamental pillar of quality coaching. The organisation’s mission is to help children get the most out of sport by equipping coaches with the knowledge and tools needed to create positive sporting experiences.
Why Safeguarding Matters
Children participate in sport to have fun, develop skills, make friends and build confidence. However, these benefits can only be realised when children feel secure in their environment. Coaches must therefore prioritise safeguarding practices that prevent harm and promote wellbeing.
Safeguarding is not only about responding to concerns or incidents. It also involves creating structures and behaviours that minimise risks before problems occur. This includes understanding safeguarding policies, following organisational guidelines and maintaining professional boundaries with young athletes.
Protecting the Children—and Yourself
One of the key messages in the video is that safeguarding also protects coaches. By following best practices, coaches reduce the risk of misunderstandings, allegations or unsafe situations. Simple actions can make a big difference. For example:
- Avoid being alone with a child where possible
- Communicate transparently with parents and guardians
- Use appropriate language and behaviour at all times
- Follow the organisation’s safeguarding policies and reporting procedures
These practices help ensure transparency and accountability, which are essential in youth sport environments.
Awareness and Responsibility
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, but coaches are often the first line of defence. They are in a unique position to notice changes in behaviour or signs that a child may be struggling. Being aware, observant and willing to act if concerns arise is an important part of the coaching role.
Coaches should also understand the correct procedures for reporting concerns and seek guidance from safeguarding officers or governing bodies when necessary. Acting early can make a significant difference in protecting a child’s wellbeing.
Building a Culture of Safety
Ultimately, safeguarding should not be seen as a separate task but as a core part of coaching practice. When safety and respect are embedded in the culture of a team or club, children are more likely to thrive both in sport and beyond.
By prioritising safe environments, coaches contribute to the long-term success of youth sport. They help ensure that children associate sport with enjoyment, development and positive memories—encouraging them to stay active and engaged for life.
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...;
