Sport Welfare and Safeguarding
Our Sports Welfare Officer (SWO) supports National Governing Bodies (NGBs), local clubs and community organisations in fostering a safe, inclusive culture for children, young people, and adults involved in physical activity.
The SWO adds capacity and expertise to the existing safeguarding work of NGBs and Active Gloucestershire, The primary objective for the SWO is to provide support to local sports clubs, assisting Club Welfare Officers in implementing robust safeguarding policies and procedures while facilitating the sharing of best practices.
Th SWO helps Active Gloucestershire to forge partnerships within Gloucestershire’s physical activity sector and statutory agencies. By aligning our efforts with the principals outlined in the “working together to safeguard children” guidance, we aim to create a safer environment for all participants involved in sport and physical activities.
Our safeguarding policies outline procedures to prevent abuse, maltreatment, and harm, promoting a safe environment for all participants. Additionally, we offer resources, training, and guidance for clubs and coaches to uphold these standards.
If you have any concerns about the safety or welfare of a child, young person or vulnerable adult in a sporting or physical activity environment it’s important to act quickly. Below are details that will support you.
What does the Sport Welfare Officer do?
Our Sport Welfare Officer is dedicated to:
- Providing Support: Offering additional, local support for club welfare officers
- Guidance & Advice: Signposting clubs to appropriate advice & guidance
- Creating a safe culture: Collaborating with club welfare officers to cultivate a safer culture within their organisations
- Training opportunities: Facilitating local training opportunities and events to educate an empower
- Networking: Establishing networks so that volunteers and staff feel better connected and informed
- Best Practices: Recognising, sharing and developing best practices in safeguarding
- Raising Awareness: Promoting awareness of safeguarding and welfare for young people and adults at local events
What is NOT the Sport Welfare Officer’s role?
The Sport Welfare Officer does not:
- Advise on or manage concerns: All concerns must be referred immediately in accordance with the National Governing Body/ Club Safeguarding Policy
Safeguarding process
We prioritise safeguarding by ensuring the safety and welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults involved in sports and physical activities.
Safeguarding in your pocket
Take a look at our handy pocket guide to safeguarding. You can download it or contact us for a printed copy.
Training opportunties
There are lots of online training opportunities to help you learn more about safeguarding.
Get in Touch
Our Sports Welfare Officer, Lisa Kankowski, is here to help. Whether you need support, guidance, or have questions about safeguarding in sports, Lisa is available to assist you
Contact Lisa: lisakankowski@activegloucestershire.org
Phone: 01452 393617
Book a Meeting: Schedule a call with Lisa
