For Safeguarding Adults Week (18 - 22 November 2024) our Sports Welfare Manager, Richard Bell has written a blog on the importance of safeguarding adults in sport.

Sport is a powerful platform for promoting physical health, mental well-being, and social connection. However, it is essential to recognise that not everyone who participates in sport has the same level of independence, and many individuals may be at risk of harm or abuse. This is why safeguarding adults, particularly vulnerable adults, is crucial in any sports and physical activity setting.

Why Safeguarding Adults in Sport Matters

Safeguarding isn’t just about protecting individuals from abuse; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. For vulnerable adults—those who may face challenges due to disabilities, mental health conditions, or other personal circumstances—sport should offer opportunities for growth, community, and joy without fear of exploitation or neglect.

Inadequate safeguarding can lead to significant harm, such as physical injuries, emotional trauma, or financial exploitation. Proactive safeguarding measures help clubs and sports organisations prevent these issues, ensuring that all participants have a positive experience and that their rights and dignity are protected.

The Role of Safeguarding Adults Awareness Week

Safeguarding Adults Awareness Week, which takes place annually in November, is a national initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding and to encourage clubs and organisations to strengthen their practices. For sports clubs, leisure centres, and independent instructors, this week is an opportunity to reflect on their safeguarding policies, provide essential training to staff and volunteers, and engage in conversations about preventing harm.

The core theme for the 2024 week is Working in Partnership. As an Active Partnership we believe that working in partnerships allows us to share our knowledge of safeguarding, share best practice amongst all sports and clubs across the county and ultimately create safer cultures.

You and your club/organisation can use the week to:

• Develop professional curiosity.

• Review your safeguarding frameworks and ensure they are accessible, robust and compliant with relevant legislation.

• Deliver workshops or courses for your volunteers or staff on recognising and responding to safeguarding concerns.

• Collaborate with local safeguarding boards, other sports and physical activity providers and active partnerships to amplify best practices.

Safeguarding is not just a compliance task; it’s a duty of care. By prioritising safeguarding, clubs, physical activity providers, sports organisations and leisure centres create an environment where every individual—regardless of their abilities or circumstances—feels safe, respected, and supported. Safeguarding Adults Awareness Week is a reminder that our collective efforts can transform sport into a truly inclusive and empowering space for all.

For more resources and guidance on Safeguarding Adults Week, visit Ann Craft Trust.

If you would like any direct support with any of the themes above please do not hesitate to contact our Sports Welfare Manager, Richard Bell at Richard.Bell@activelincolnshire.com