Online film to help sports clubs protect children from abuse

The NSPCC today (07 May 2009) launched the online film - 'Play Sport Stay Safe'. The film is free to view on the NSPCC's Child Protection in Sport Unit  website at www.thecpsu.org.uk .

'Play Sport Stay Safe' has been created for sports club staff, volunteers and parents. The film shows examples of how to recognise, respond to and report any concerns over the safety and well being of children involved in sport.
 
Director of the NSPCC's Child Protection in Sport Unit, Anne Tiivas said: "Millions of children and young people play sport every week. They will often build close and trusting relationships with the adults that coach and supervise them. These adults are in an ideal position to listen, spot and act on any suspicions or allegations of inappropriate behaviour or abuse."

The film shows fifteen different scenarios set in sports clubs. They include best practice examples of how to handle concerns about physical abuse, sexual abuse, bullying, disability discrimination and racial discrimination of children.

The film also emphasises the need for sports clubs to have clear procedures for responding to child protection concerns.

Anne Tiivas said: "Sport should always be fun and safe. It's not the responsibility of those involved in sport to investigate what's happened, but it is their responsibility to report concerns.

"Those who manage sports clubs and volunteers have a clear duty to protect the children and young people, as well as the adults, who take part and enjoy their sport. Sports clubs should contact their sports National Governing Body for more information and help in developing and implementing child protection policies.

"Adults who have any concerns about the safety or welfare of a child can also call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 for help and advice."

'Play Sport Stay Safe' has been produced with the support of Sport Northern Ireland, Sport Scotland, Children 1st and Sport England East and South East regions.

Ends

NSPCC media office on 020 7825 2514 out of hours on 07976 206 625

Notes to Editor:
1) The NSPCC's Child Protection in Sport Unit was set up in 2001 to advise organisations on how to introduce child protection polices commission research into abuse within sport and raise the profile of child protection among sports governing bodies. The Child Protection in Sport Unit is a jointly funded project between the NSPCC, Sport England and, Sport Northern Ireland and the Sports Council for Wales. In Scotland the project is jointly funded by Children 1st and Sport Scotland.