On launching our Sport Welfare Supporter Kit Bag offer, we invited clubs to complete a short form and club welfare survey as part of the application process. On reviewing the information submitted by clubs, we identified some common themes and good practice tips.
We know that every club is different so the following is to help clubs strengthen their welfare and safeguarding arrangements. If you would like to discuss anything in more detail or would like support reviewing your current welfare arrangements, please contact Rachel or Jimmy at sportwelfare@kent.gov.uk
Strong Safeguarding Foundations
All clubs had some form of safeguarding policy and/or safeguarding statement in place. This demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding and sets a club up to create a safe, welcoming environment for all participants.
- Good Practice Tip
Ensure your safeguarding policy is easy for members, parents, volunteers and coaches to find and understand. Consider displaying it on your website and sharing it regularly with club members.
Policy Review Dates
While clubs had safeguarding policies in place, several had not been reviewed within the last three years.
- Good Practice Tip
Review policies annually, or at least every three years, to ensure guidance remains current and relevant.
Visibility of the Club Welfare Officer
In some cases, Club Welfare Officer details were not included within safeguarding policies or supporting documentation.
- Good Practice Tip
Include the Welfare Officer name, role and contact details within policies, codes of conduct and club communications.
View Guidance on ‘Who Should I Speak To About a Concern?’
Signposting to Additional Support
Some clubs provided contact details for their National Governing Body safeguarding lead and local statutory services as alternative routes for advice and support.
- Good Practice Tip
Consider including key safeguarding contacts and alternative routes for advice and support within your documentation and on your website.
Club Website Information
Where clubs had a website, Club Welfare Officer contact details were not always visible or easy to locate.
- Good Practice Tip
Create a dedicated welfare or safeguarding section on your website to improve visibility. Consider printing posters with club welfare officer details on to display in the club house and at events.
Codes of Conduct
Most clubs had developed club-specific codes of conduct covering participants, parents/carers, coaches, volunteers and spectators. This demonstrates a proactive approach to promoting positive behaviour.
- Good Practice Tip
Review codes regularly and ensure they reflect your club values.
Club Welfare Officer Email Address
Some clubs currently use personal email addresses for their Club Welfare Officer role.
- Good Practice Tip
Consider using a dedicated club welfare email account such as: welfare@clubname.co.uk, to maintain professional boundaries, continuity and confidentiality.
