01st July 2025
A bold new approach to ensure the safety of everyone involved in sport across the United Kingdom is needed, according to a major new report published this week (June 24).
The Safe Sport report is the result of shared recognition in the sports sector of the challenges faced in keeping people safe. Sport England and the other home nation Sports Councils, UK Sport and many national governing bodies (NGBs) took part in the project.
The report concluded with five recommendations, which include developing a clear framework for safe sport across the UK and establishing a new independent body to provide leadership and coordination in this area. You can read the full report here.
A joint statement by the five UK Sports Councils said: “Everyone taking part in sport should have a safe and positive experience that is free from harm of any kind. We are grateful to all involved in the Safe Sport project for their work.
“The Sports Councils agree that there should be UK-wide leadership and vision for Safe Sport and a consistent framework to keeping all participants in sport safe from harm.
“We will continue our shared commitment to prioritising and shifting resources towards programmes that prevent harm, rather than react to harm, and will work with NGBs and sports providers to do the same.
“The Sports Councils will support the next phase of work, which will involve feasibility and scoping, including the appointment of a dedicated lead for the Safe Sport project.”
Across England, sports clubs and organisations are being supported by a network of Sport Welfare Officers. The aim of the network is to increase welfare capacity and expertise at a local and national level and share best practices to help prevent concerns, making sport safe for everyone. If your organisation needs safeguarding guidance, you can contact our Sports Welfare Officers at Active Sussex, and find out more about how they can support you here.