Sport Welfare learning and networking event

Active Sussex Sport Welfare Officers held their first face-to-face learning and networking event on Tuesday, July 9.

The event, held at the University of Sussex, was a chance for Club Welfare Officers (CWO) and safeguarding leads to discuss their roles, the challenges they face, and how Active Sussex can support them.

Angela Nilmadhub-Watson and Lauren Rickson, the Sport Welfare Officers at Active Sussex, said: “Thank you to all that took the time to attend our event, particularly in a voluntary role. 

“We really valued everyone’s input to the sessions and the insight shared from lived experiences. 

“Our aim is to work with all the club welfare officers and safeguarding leads, as well as the National Governing Bodies, to ensure we provide additional support, which will help everyone in their roles locally. 

“On the day we noted that those attending would welcome more opportunities to connect with welfare officers and safeguarding leads from other sports, and we will be looking to promote more opportunities to create these networks and further connections.”

The event was attended by representatives from various clubs and sports, including gymnastics, badminton, paddle, netball, climbing, and athletics.

During the two-hour event, Angela and Lauren ran two workshops.

The first focused on the role of a Club Welfare Officer and personal experiences and provided a first steps road map, while the second gave participants time and space to discuss ‘hot topics’ and explore new opportunities and ideas.

Constant feedback and insight into how to shape further work are invaluable, and the Sport Welfare Officers are always keen to hear from anyone working in the sector in a Club Welfare Officer or safeguarding role.

To contact Angela or Lauren, please email sportwelfare@activesussex.org