Safeguarding and empowerment go hand-in-hand

Safeguarding leads and Club Welfare Officers from across Sussex came together for a Coffee and Connect event hosted by Active Sussex’s Sport Welfare Officers.

The informal event, held at the Attenborough Centre on the University of Sussex campus, brought together 20 attendees for an engaging morning of shared learning, discussion, and support, highlighting how safeguarding in sport is not just about protection, but also about empowerment.

Taking place on Wednesday, November 5, the event was held after October’s NSPCC’s Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week and just before the Ann Craft Trust’s Adult Safeguarding Week (November 17-21).

A key message of the morning was the connection between the Play Their Way campaign and safeguarding practice in sport.

Steph McCabe from Try Tag Rugby Brighton & Hove, who is part of the Active Sussex Play Their Way initiative, spoke about how the campaign’s child-first approach is rooted in safeguarding principles.

“It’s about creating environments where children are not only safe, but can thrive,” said Steph. “When children feel listened to and have their own say, they are more confident to come and talk to you. Children feel safe when they are heard.”

Steph shared practical ways to embed Play Their Way principles into everyday coaching, from setting clear boundaries to allowing space for creativity, encouraging ten minutes of free play at the start of a session, and ending with reflection and fun.

“Core safeguarding elements are built into Play Their Way,” she added. “Safeguarding and empowerment go hand-in-hand.”

Tess Michaels, from the Violence Against Women and Girls Unit at Brighton & Hove City Council, gave an important talk about recognising the signs of abuse and supporting those affected.

“Violence can impact anyone, of any gender, any age, any background,” said Tess. “It’s not just about looking out for bruises – it might be someone who seems nervous, scared, or controlled. It’s about having the confidence to know what to do, taking a believing approach, and being supportive.”

Tess also encouraged clubs to take part in White Ribbon Day on November 25 and reminded attendees of the many local organisations that can provide advice and guidance to anyone concerned about someone’s safety or wellbeing.

Giovanna Simpson, from the East Sussex Safeguarding Children Partnership (ESSCP), outlined the training, advice, and resources available to clubs and organisations.

“It’s important to know what to spot and who you need to contact,” she said. “Equally, it’s vital for clubs to understand their roles and limits, and when to hand over to the relevant authorities.”

Giovanna highlighted the free training and support available through ESSCP to help sports clubs strengthen their safeguarding practices.

Following the talks, attendees reflected on the value of connecting in person and sharing experiences.

Dawn Hyland, South East Regional Welfare Officer for Gymnastics, said: “It was very useful. I particularly enjoyed the session about Play Their Way, as we’re trialling it in several gymnastics clubs. Positive coaching is so important, and this is something I can take forward.”

Co-organiser Lauren Rickson, Sport Welfare Officer at Active Sussex, emphasised the importance of community: “Being a safeguarding lead in a club or organisation can sometimes feel quite lonely, so bringing people together to connect, share experiences, and feel part of a wider community really makes a difference.”

Angela Nilmadhub-Watson, Sport Welfare Officer and co-organiser of the event, added: “It’s fantastic to see so many clubs returning to our sessions. It really shows the value they place on these opportunities to learn and connect. 

“Shared learning is such a powerful part of developing good safeguarding practice. 

“Hearing from external speakers gives fresh perspectives and practical insights that clubs can take back and apply in their own environments.” 

Active Sussex continues to champion safeguarding in sport and physical activity, supporting Club Welfare Officers and Safeguarding Leads through events like this, regular drop-ins, and access to national initiatives such as Play Their Way.

These networks and campaigns serve as vital reminders that safeguarding is not just about responding when things go wrong; it is also about preventing them from happening in the first place. It’s about creating safe, supportive, and empowering environments where everyone can thrive.

To find out more about our Sport Welfare Officers and what they can offer, visit www.activesussex.org/sport-welfare-officers/

To find out more about child-first coaching and the Play Their Way campaign, visit www.activesussex.org/children-young-people/youth-voice/