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Ensuring a Safe Sporting Environment for Children: A Call tosports.org/2024/09/15/motorsport/rev-up-your-workout-pirelli-multi-design-introduce-new-motorsport-inspired-fitness-line/” title=”Rev Up Your Workout: Pirelli & Multi Design Introduce New Motorsport-Inspired Fitness Line”>‌ Action
This past Monday, October 7, British Cycling took an active role in the NSPCC’s initiative known as Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week. This initiative is part of a year-long effort aimed at increasing awareness regarding safeguarding practices within sports and recreational facilities, ultimately striving to create safer environments for young athletes nationwide.
The campaign officially commenced with an event in Manchester where renowned figures gathered to share their insights on safeguarding children in sports. Keynote speaker NSPCC CEO Sir Peter Wanless was joined by notable personalities such as Team Jamaica weightlifting Olympian Chloe Whylie, former NBA player Fay Greaves—who is also a BAFTA winner—and David Lean, a volunteer with lived experience who was formerly abused by ex-football coach Barry Bennell. Jon Dutton OBE, Chief Executive of British Cycling, launched the proceedings at this significant gathering.
The Statistics Behind Safeguarding Concerns
In the last year (2023/24), over 400 adults reported concerns regarding child safety within sporting contexts to the NSPCC Helpline. Alarmingly, more than one-fifth of these cases (22%) pertained to instances of sexual abuse and exploitation while approximately one in seven (14%) involved emotional abuse issues.
Aiming for Empowerment Through Education
The Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport campaign spearheaded by the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) seeks to embolden parents and guardians concerning their essential role in ensuring children’s safety. In addition, it assists clubs and teams in recognizing how they can create protective and nurturing atmospheres for young participants. This year’s activities encourage clubs, coaches, and family members across the country to organize “Team Huddles”—social gatherings designed not just for enjoyment but also as platforms for meaningful discussions pertaining to safeguarding matters.
British Cycling’s Commitment
Jon Dutton OBE expressed that British Cycling stands firmly alongside NSPCC’s mission during ‘Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport’ Week. He emphasized: “Ensuring children’s safety across all sporting venues is our utmost priority.” Dutton further stated that there must be no obstacles preventing individuals from reporting abuse or harm encountered within sports organizations—a responsibility they take very earnestly.
“It is uplifting to see how both NSPCC’s Childline and Helpline are enabling individuals of all ages to speak out about their experiences,” he added; however he acknowledged that there remains much work ahead. The recent event marks merely the beginning; it aims not only for heightened awareness over this week but seeks long-lasting commitment across various sports throughout the year ahead.” Dutton concluded with a powerful reminder: “Every child has the right to thrive within a secure sporting environment.”
Join Us in Making Sports Safer
If you’re interested in participating or contributing towards this vital cause further details can be found at cpsu.org.uk/safeinsport.
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