Brighton & Hove clubs unite to strengthen safeguarding through collaborative learning

Sports clubs and activity groups from across Brighton & Hove came together last month for two hands‑on safeguarding events delivered in partnership by Active Sussex, Freedom Leisure and the Fitness and Leisure Centre Network. 

The atmosphere was one of shared purpose, with volunteers, safeguarding leads, welfare officers and Freedom Leisure staff all stepping into the same space to deepen understanding, build confidence and strengthen the collective approach to keeping people safe.

Across the two sessions on September 8 and 10, participants explored safeguarding responsibilities, reporting routes and the vital role every individual plays in creating environments where people feel safe, supported and included. 

The collaborative format, bringing clubs and leisure staff together, was widely welcomed as a practical example of proactive safeguarding support for Sussex’s sport and physical activity sector.

A Freedom Leisure General Manager summed up the day’s value: “A really worthwhile session with some worthwhile developing conversations on the floor.”

Keith Oddy, from the Fitness Centre and Leisure Centre Network, delivered an insightful presentation on recent legislative changes affecting clubs and leisure spaces, highlighting emerging themes and risks across sport and physical activity. 

His session resonated strongly with attendees, with one participant reflecting: “I found the session really useful and interesting. In particular, I valued the presentation around how safeguarding issues have changed/increased in recent years.”

Clubs also shared how the event had strengthened their confidence in good safeguarding and welfare practice, with one reporting they strongly agreed that their understanding had increased. 

One of the biggest takeaways for a club was, “clarity on what route to report safeguarding issues”.

The collaborative nature of the event also opened up new conversations. 

A county representative from a Sports National Governing Body noted the value of being in the room with Freedom Leisure staff, describing it as important time to discuss event planning at Freedom venues.

The day showed how partnership working, shared learning, and open dialogue can help build safer, more connected, and more confident environments for everyone involved in sport and physical activity across Brighton & Hove.

If you are a leisure provider and would like more information about this initiative, please contact the Sport Welfare team by emailing sportwelfare@activesussex.org.