Child Safeguarding Policy Tool

Ref. Ares(2025)11253524 - 16/12/2025

CHILD SAFEGUARDING POLICY TOOL

Good Practices in Children’s Safeguarding

Summary Executive Summary: A New Mandate for Child-Centred Governance 4 DEFINITION OF SAFEGUARDING

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WHY ORGANISATIONS NEED GUIDELINES? 12 EFFECTIVE STRATEGY: THE PILLARS 15 Proactivity: Emphasising Ongoing Effort 15 Transparent and Inclusive Culture: 16 Strategic Risk Management: 16 Empowerment through Education and Technology: 17

Assessment: Evaluating Before Acting

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Communication and Participation: Integrating Disclosure and Reporting, Fostering Participation

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Participation

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Communication

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Action: Responding to Safeguarding Concerns 18 Resolution: Remedy and Long-Term Recovery 19

SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL

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Introduction 20 Why do we need to self-assess our organisations? 21 The Tool

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Executive Summary: A New Mandate for Child-Centred Governance The protection of children from all forms of harm—including physical or mental violence, abuse, neglect, discrimination, and exploitation—is not merely an ethical consideration but a fundamental moral and legal imperative for all organisations, particularly those within the sports sector. This framework establishes a robust, holistic, and child-centred approach rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which mandates that the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration in all actions concerning them (Article 3).

This document outlines an administrative, organisational, environmental, and educational strategy designed to proactively safeguard young participants and simultaneously support sport organisations in their essential role of fostering children’s growth and active participation in society. The strategy is structured around five operational pillars—Proactivity, Assessment, Communication and Participation, Action, and Resolution—to drive systemic improvement and accountability across the European sports landscape.

I. Defining Safeguarding and Acknowledging the Unique Challenges in Sport The UNCRC Mandate for Protection Safeguarding, in line with the UNCRC, is defined comprehensively as the commitment "to take all appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to protect children from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation". This commitment extends to ensuring children's overall wellbeing, encompassing their physical, emotional, and social development.

The Context of Vulnerability in Athletic Environments While sports offer significant positive benefits, they can also expose children to unique risks due to inherent power dynamics. Behaviours often deemed unacceptable in other sectors, such as psychological pressure, body shaming, and harsh criticism, are sometimes normalised, encouraged, or justified in high-performance sports environments in the pursuit of success and "resilience". This requires a nuanced policy approach that moves beyond reactive measures to address the systemic vulnerabilities present in the sports structure.

Vulnerabilities are broadly categorised into three thematic areas that must be addressed through policy:

Organisational Vulnerabilities: Stemming from poorly defined policies, inadequate training, or treating safeguarding as a secondary concern rather than a core responsibility.

Individual Vulnerabilities: Recognizing that children, especially those from marginalized groups (based on disability, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status), face heightened risks and barriers to protection.

Societal Vulnerabilities: Where social norms, such as prioritizing winning over well-being, reinforce harmful practices and create a culture of silence.

II. The Five Pillars of a Child-Centred Safeguarding Strategy The framework must be governed by a dynamic system capable of anticipating risks and providing meaningful long-term recovery. The following five pillars guide administrative, organizational, and programmatic implementation: Pillar 1: Proactivity – Emphasising Prevention (Administrative and Educational Measures) Goal: Prevent harm by anticipating risks and continuously improving safeguarding practices.

Dynamic Policy Framework: Establish a dedicated, interdisciplinary team responsible for continuously reviewing and updating child safeguarding policies and procedures. This team must incorporate feedback mechanisms from children and staff to ensure policies remain relevant and adaptive to new insights.

Advanced Training Modules: Mandate adaptive, scenario-based training that evolves to address emerging risks and power dynamics within coach-athlete relationships. Implementation of a mandatory certification program with regular recertification is necessary for all staff and volunteers involved with children.

Strategic Risk Management: Leverage data and implement formal partnerships with external agencies (including law enforcement and child welfare organisations) to conduct safety audits and anticipate potential risks before they escalate.

Pillar 2: Assessment – Evaluating Before Acting (Organisational Measures) Goal: Evaluate each situation carefully before taking action to ensure a measured and effective response.

Initial Risk Assessment and Context Analysis: Implement a standardised procedure for immediate, confidential risk assessment when a concern arises. This assessment must consider the child’s unique social, emotional, and environmental context, including factors such as age, disability, and cultural background, to tailor a suitable safeguarding approach.

Capacity Evaluation: Before initiating a response, organisations must assess their capacity, including the availability of legal, psychological, and specialised staff support, to handle the situation effectively.

Continuous Evaluation: Utilise self-assessment tools regularly to systematically evaluate current policies and practices against these standards, tracking progress and identifying gaps (e.g., scoring practices as "Fully Implemented," "Partially Implemented," or "Not Implemented").

Pillar 3: Communication and Participation – Prioritising the Child's Voice (Environmental and Educational Measures) Goal: Create clear, transparent, and accessible pathways for reporting concerns and disclosures; foster participation and prioritise the voices of children.

Upholding the Right to Be Heard: Policies must align with Article 12 of the UNCRC, recognising children as active agents in their own safety. Children must actively participate in promoting their rights and shaping safeguarding policies, ensuring their perspectives are taken seriously into account.

Accessible and Trustworthy Reporting Mechanisms: Develop multiple, user-friendly reporting systems (e.g., hotlines, dedicated safeguarding officers, secure digital forms) that enable anonymous reporting and ensure confidentiality. The fear of retaliation and lack of trust are significant barriers to disclosure that must be actively dismantled by guaranteeing support for survivors.

Child-Centred Communication: Ensure that all information regarding protection, expected staff behavior, and how to seek support is provided to children using age-appropriate and sensitive language.

Pillar 4: Action – Responding to Safeguarding Concerns (Organisational and Administrative Measures) Goal: Ensure swift, effective, and child-focused action to address safeguarding concerns.

Immediate Safety Protocols: Establish clear protocols for immediate action, which may involve removing the child from imminent harm or suspending individuals under investigation.

Interdisciplinary Coordination: Response protocols must mandate immediate coordination with internal departments (such as HR and Legal) and external partners (including social services, law enforcement, and child protective services). The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) must act as the primary point of contact and possess strong leadership and legal knowledge to ensure compliance.

Meticulous Documentation: All actions taken must be thoroughly and factually documented, adhering strictly to organisational policies and legal requirements.

Pillar 5: Resolution – Remedy and Long-Term Recovery (Administrative and Support Measures) Goal: Provide meaningful, long-term resolution that supports the child’s recovery and prevents future harm.

Comprehensive Support Plans: Develop individualised long-term recovery plans for affected children, providing access to necessary support services, including ongoing psychological care and counselling, to address trauma.

Accountability and Legal Remedy: The organisation must actively pursue disciplinary actions or legal remedies against perpetrators, ensuring justice and reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding.

Systemic Improvement through Feedback: Implement formal feedback loops involving children, families, and staff to evaluate how cases were handled. The outcomes and new insights gained from case resolution must be used to consistently update and improve organisational policies, training, and risk assessment tools.

Strategic Policy Drivers and Institutional Responsibility Committed Leadership and Governance Committed leadership is the crucial element in driving positive change. Leaders must foster a child-centred organisational culture that prioritises safety over competitive success. This requires embedding safeguarding principles into all operational procedures, including safe recruitment practices (such as background checks), and regularly monitoring and evaluating policy implementation through independent audits. Resource allocation must reflect this priority, recognising that investment in safeguarding is an essential investment in children's well-being.

Mandate for Continuous Education and Professional Development The capacity of sports organisations hinges on the knowledge and competencies of their practitioners. Training must be comprehensive, equipping coaches, administrators, and volunteers not only with technical skills but also with the ability to act as guardians. Educational programs should cover: Recognition of all forms of abuse (physical, emotional, neglect, sexual abuse, bullying).

Understanding and mitigating risk factors associated with vulnerability (e.g., disability, social isolation, mental health issues).

Appropriate response techniques when receiving a disclosure, emphasising active listening and avoiding leading questions.

Adopting pedagogies appropriate to the athlete's age and gender, moving away from defensive or harmful coaching practices.

Collaboration and "Building Bridges" Sports organisations often lack the specialised resources (legal, psychological, and social work) required for comprehensive safeguarding. Therefore, a core policy pillar must be the development of robust, collaborative networks ("Building Bridges") with external entities specializing in child

protection and welfare. This ensures that complex issues, such as mental health support or legal reporting, are handled by experts, enabling sports bodies to enhance their overall safeguarding capacity.

Upholding Rights in Mega Sports Events (MSEs) Mega Sports Events (MSEs) require a heightened level of commitment to children’s rights due to their infrastructural and economic impact. Organisers must be mandated to proactively expand protections, creating safe spaces and ensuring accessible facilities, and actively integrating childfriendly services. This intentional commitment ensures the event leaves a lasting, positive legacy on child welfare standards in host communities, rather than being marred by neglect or exploitation.

A Call for Transformative Action This framework provides a political and operational roadmap for European sports systems to transition definitively toward proactive, child-centred governance. The integration of the five foundational pillars, coupled with a commitment to continuous self-assessment, mandatory education, and robust external collaboration, is essential for upholding the rights of the child as enshrined in the UNCRC. By adopting these administrative, organisational, environmental, and educational measures, sport organisations can move beyond mere compliance to foster an environment where children can truly flourish—free from harm, empowered to participate actively, and supported in their holistic development as athletes and future citizens. Effective child safeguarding is a continuous journey, demanding regular evaluation and adaptation to ensure practices remain relevant and resilient against evolving threats.

DEFINITION OF SAFEGUARDING The literature consistently highlights the absence of standardised safeguarding terminology. Most discussions centre on what individuals or groups are being safeguarded from rather than a uniform definition of safeguarding itself.

Some definitions are detailed and specific, while others remain more general. However, there is no clear pattern regarding how different countries or authors define safeguarding, although national legal frameworks and terminologies often influence these definitions.

However, it is important to note that the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) provides a comprehensive definition: “To take all appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to protect children from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury or abuse, neglect or negligent treatment, maltreatment or exploitation while in the care of parent(s), legal guardian(s), or any other person who has the care of the child.”

This definition outlines both the necessary protective measures and the types of risks from which children should be safeguarded.

Similarly, the Coaching Association of Canada extends this concept by adopting a comprehensive, human rights-based approach to foster a secure, inclusive, and supportive sports environment. As McCrae et al. (2024) note, their definition focuses on: “creating an environment free from all forms of maltreatment, harassment, and discrimination in sport.”

Regardless of the definition or the approaches adopted, one key concept remains crucial to any effective safeguarding strategy: the best interest of the child. This principle, embedded in both national and international child protection frameworks, serves as the foundation upon which safeguarding policies and practices are built.

The concept of the child's best interest is rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which unequivocally states that "the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration" in all actions concerning children (Article 3). This principle is further reinforced by the CRC's emphasis on the child's right to protection from all forms of violence, exploitation, and abuse (Article 19).

But what does it mean to prioritise the best interest of the child? In essence, it requires a childcentred approach that places the child's needs, rights, and well-being at the forefront of all decision-making processes. This involves considering the child's unique circumstances, experiences, and perspectives and their physical, emotional, and psychological needs. It demands a nuanced understanding of the child's developmental stage, cultural background, and individual characteristics and a willingness to adapt safeguarding strategies accordingly.

In the context of sport, the child's best interest means prioritising the child’s safety, well-being, and rights above all other considerations, ensuring that the environments in which children participate are conducive to their development and free from harm and forms of maltreatment.

Safeguarding requires more than just reactive measures; it demands a proactive, child-centred approach that anticipates risks and actively seeks to prevent them. This involves implementing comprehensive policies that address all potential forms of harm—whether physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual—and putting in place systems for monitoring, reporting, and responding to safeguarding concerns. Furthermore, it requires the active involvement of all stakeholders, from coaches and parents to sports organisations and policymakers, to create a culture where children’s voices are heard, respected, and acted upon.

The centrality of the best interest of the child in sport also underscores the importance of individualised approaches in safeguarding. No two children are the same, and their vulnerabilities can vary widely depending on factors such as age, gender, disability, sports experiences and socioeconomic background. Therefore, safeguarding strategies must be flexible and adaptable, taking into account the specific needs and circumstances of each child.

This broader approach emphasises the importance of safeguarding across various contexts, including sports, by addressing various risks. In the realm of sports, safeguarding is crucial due to the unique physical, social, and psychological dynamics that can affect individuals. Sports environments, while fostering development, teamwork, and personal growth, can also expose children to risks such as maltreatment, abuse, bullying, and exploitation. Therefore, safeguarding in sports involves creating protective frameworks that not only prevent harm but also promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere for young participants.

Today, sports organisation groups are learning that they must put strong safety measures in place.

They look to important guidelines, tools, policy and strategies to guide their safety efforts. These measures are all about keeping children safe from harm and making sure they have the emotional support they need. This means protecting them from abuse and ensuring their overall well-being is taken care of.

International bodies such as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and UNICEF have also played key roles in shaping safeguarding policies in sports. The IOC’s initiatives on safeguarding athletes emphasise the importance of education, awareness, and protection from abuse, promoting standards that national and local sports organisations can adopt. Similarly, UNICEF advocates for a child-centred approach in sports, ensuring that safeguarding measures account for the specific vulnerabilities of young athletes.

In practical terms, safeguarding policies in sports often involve measures such as background checks for coaches, education on recognising and preventing abuse, and clear reporting mechanisms for any incidents of harm. These initiatives are designed to create a safer sporting environment where children can participate in physical activities free from fear of exploitation or mistreatment.

Ultimately, safeguarding in sports is about fostering an environment that nurtures individuals' physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It ensures that sport remains a positive force in children’s lives, supporting their development while protecting them from potential harm and misconduct.

WHY ORGANISATIONS NEED GUIDELINES? In today's rapidly evolving world, the safety and well-being of children remain paramount concerns for organisations across the globe and sports organisations in particular. As we navigate various challenges, from digital dangers to traditional threats, the complexity of safeguarding children has never been more apparent. This calls for a nuanced, comprehensive, and participatory approach that addresses children's multifaceted opportunities and risks, and upholds the highest standards of participation, protection, and care. In the ensuing discussion, we delve into the critical elements that form the backbone of effective child-safeguarding strategies. From embracing the complexities of risk and minimising potential harm to upholding moral and legal obligations, ensuring consistency in safeguarding measures, and prioritising the well-being of every child, the focus will be on refining these aspects to create a safer, more nurturing environment for children everywhere.

Let's explore how we can make child safeguarding guidelines even more effective and impactful by considering the following key points: Embracing Complexity and Minimising Risks: Child safeguarding refers to a wide range of risks, from physical to emotional and psychological. These risks can vary based on the child's age, environment, and interactions. It's crucial to have tailored guidelines that recognise and address these risks, nuanced and flexible, catering to each child's needs.

Upholding Morals and Laws: Protecting children is a moral and legal obligation. By following international conventions, such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and national laws, comprehensive guidelines ensure that organisations safeguard children from harm, aligning with both global and local legal frameworks.

Ensuring Consistent Safeguarding Measures: In the absence of clear guidelines, responses to safeguarding concerns may vary, potentially leading to inadequate protection. Standardised procedures outlined in guidelines ensure consistency across all levels of an organisation, creating a secure and reliable environment for child protection.

Transitioning to Proactive Safeguarding: Effective guidelines help organisations shift from reactive responses to proactive measures to prevent incidents. By fostering a culture of

participation, vigilance and accountability, these guidelines enable proactive risk mitigation, significantly reducing the potential for abuse or neglect.

Clarifying Responsibilities for All Stakeholders: Child safeguarding is a collective responsibility that involves staff, volunteers, and the broader community. Clear guidelines outlining specific roles and responsibilities enhance collaboration, cultivate a shared commitment to creating a safe environment for children, and prevent possible burnout situations within staff members Prioritising Children's Well-being: At the heart of safeguarding is the principle of putting the child's best interest first. Guidelines should integrate this principle into organisational policies and practices, ensuring that decisions consistently prioritise the child's safety, well-being, welfare, and rights.

Handling Sensitive Cases with Compassion: Safeguarding issues are often complex and sensitive. Guidelines should provide a structured approach to address these challenges, ensuring that children's rights are protected, confidentiality is maintained, and appropriate, sensitive actions are taken.

Building Trust with Children and Families: Clear and robust guidelines signal an organisation's commitment towards children’s rights, helping to build trust with children and their families. This trust is essential for encouraging disclosures and ensuring that children feel safe reporting concerns, knowing they will be treated respectfully.

Fostering Continuous Improvement and Accountability: Guidelines should lay the foundation for ongoing monitoring to enhance safeguarding practices. Regular review and adaptation to emerging threats or environmental changes uphold accountability, ensuring adherence to the highest child protection standards.

By refining these aspects, sports organisations can significantly improve their approach to child safeguarding, creating a safer environment for all children.

EFFECTIVE STRATEGY: THE PILLARS To cultivate and adopt a genuinely effective and participative strategy for protecting children, it's critical to embrace a comprehensive framework built around five foundational pillars: Proactivity, Assessment, Communication and Participation, Action, and Resolution. This approach isn't just about responding to challenges as they occur but about creating a proactive, participative, and preventive culture that prioritises the safety and well-being of children at every turn.

By integrating these pillars, we can develop a dynamic and responsive system that addresses immediate concerns and works towards creating an environment where children's rights are continuously guarded and guaranteed. This system is designed to be both flexible and robust, capable of adapting to new threats while maintaining a steadfast commitment to protecting and empowering children.

In essence, this framework isn't just a method for addressing child safety issues; it's a comprehensive strategy designed to foster a safe, nurturing, and responsive environment for all children. Through its implementation, we can ensure that safeguarding becomes an integral part of our societal fabric, promoting a culture of children’s rights in our communities.

Proactivity: Emphasising Ongoing Effort Goal: Prevent harm by anticipating risks and continuously improving safeguarding practices. By adopting these advanced strategies, organisations can create a robust and responsive childsafeguarding ecosystem that protects children and actively involves them in their safety, ensuring a safer and more empowering environment for all.

Dynamic Policy Framework: Establish a dedicated staff to continuously review and enhance the organisation’s child safeguarding policies and procedures. In the ideal form, this team should consist of representatives from diverse backgrounds, including legal, psychological, and child welfare experts, to ensure comprehensive coverage of all relevant aspects.

Incorporate feedback mechanisms within the policy framework, allowing for adapting policies and organisational procedures based on new insights, challenges, or feedback from children and staff.

Raise awareness to ensure a common understanding within the organisation of what harm is and what it means for the children we serve to be safe. It's important to highlight the power dynamics in relationships between adults and young athletes and to acknowledge the potential harm we might cause, often without realising it or intending to, and the impact this may have on others.

This mindfulness should inform our policy framework.

Advanced Training Modules: Develop an adaptive training curriculum that evolves to address emerging risks and incorporates the latest research on child protection and welfare—Emphasise interactive and scenario-based training to improve understanding and retention.

Implement a certification program for staff, volunteers and all the adults involved in the sport organisation, requiring regular re-certification to ensure their knowledge and skills remain current. This certification program can be developed in collaboration with Universities and Training agencies.

Transparent and Inclusive Culture: Introduce regular, open forums where staff, volunteers, and members/participants can express concerns, share experiences, and propose improvements to safeguarding practices without fear of judgment or retaliation.

Promote leadership roles among children within these discussions, reinforcing their sense of agency and ensuring their perspectives shape organisational practices.

Strategic Risk Management: Leverage advanced analytics and data collection tools to assess and predict potential risks accurately. This proactive approach enables the organisation to anticipate and mitigate risks before they escalate.

Develop partnerships with external agencies, including law enforcement and child welfare organisations, to benefit from their expertise and resources in conducting safety audits and implementing best practices for risk mitigation.

Empowerment through Education and Technology: Create interactive and engaging educational programs for children (eventually with adult supervision) that utilise multimedia and gamification, making learning about their rights and safety fun and memorable.

Introduce a secure, user-friendly digital reporting system that allows children and families to report concerns even anonymously. This system should be accessible through multiple ways both online and offline accordingly with age, ensuring children can easily access it whenever needed.

Assessment: Evaluating Before Acting Goal: Evaluate each situation carefully before taking action to ensure a measured and effective response.

Initial risk assessment: When a concern arises, conduct an immediate, confidential assessment to determine the nature of the risk to the child.

Context analysis: Understand the child's social, emotional, and environmental context to tailor a suitable safeguarding approach. Consider cultural, family, and community dynamics that could impact the situation.

Assess resources and capacity: Before responding, evaluate whether the organisation has the appropriate resources (staff, legal advice, psychological support) to handle the situation effectively.

Review historical cases: Analyse similar cases or internal safeguarding reports to determine patterns and develop better-informed response strategies.

Communication and Participation: Integrating Disclosure and Reporting, Fostering Participation

Goal: Create clear, transparent, and accessible pathways for reporting concerns and disclosures; foster participation and prioritise the voices of children

Participation Inform: ensure that children have, in any circumstance, all relevant information in ageappropriate language for their protection, such as knowing what to expect from staff and how and who to ask for help.

Consult and collaborate: ensure that children are asked to help identify the problems they want to address and possible solutions.

Take into grave account: be ready to plan to consider the issues raised.

Spread awareness: Make participation part of your organisational culture and procedures.

Communication Develop accessible reporting systems: Ensure children and staff know what to expect from the program, activities, staff behaviour, how to report concerns, and how to seek support if needed .

Implement user-friendly reporting mechanisms, including hotlines, online forms, dedicated post box or designated safeguarding officers.

Confidentiality and trust: Guarantee that all disclosures are handled confidentially, protecting the child's and reporter's identity while ensuring appropriate action is taken.

Clear escalation protocols: Outline clear procedures for escalating concerns within the organisation and externally (to local authorities, law enforcement, and child protective services) when necessary.

Child-centred communication: Ensure that communication with children is age-appropriate and sensitive to their emotional state. Provide them with regular updates on the progress of their case.

Engagement with families and communities: Where appropriate, communicate with families in a respectful, non-judgmental way, keeping the child's best interests at the forefront.

Action: Responding to Safeguarding Concerns Goal: Ensure swift, effective, and child-focused action to address safeguarding concerns.

Immediate safety measures: If the child is at risk, take immediate action to ensure their safety, which might involve removing the child from harm or suspending individuals under investigation.

Interdisciplinary approach: Coordinate with internal departments (HR, legal, counselling) and external partners (social services, law enforcement) to comprehensively respond to the concern.

Follow safeguarding protocols: Ensure all actions align with the organisation's safeguarding policies and legal requirements. Document all actions meticulously.

Support services: Offer the child and family access to psychological support or counselling services to address any trauma experienced.

Resolution: Remedy and Long-Term Recovery Goal: Provide meaningful, long-term resolution that supports the child’s recovery and prevents future harm.

Long-term support plans: Develop individualised recovery plans for affected children, including ongoing psychological care, educational support, and family intervention.

Monitor and review: Continuously monitor the child’s well-being post-intervention, ensuring that the resolution of the issue is effective and that there is no recurrence of harm.

Feedback loops: Implement mechanisms for children, families, and staff to provide feedback on how safeguarding cases were handled and resolved, which can be used to improve future safeguarding processes.

Legal remedy and accountability: Where applicable, pursue legal remedies or disciplinary actions against perpetrators to ensure justice and reinforce the organisation’s commitment to safeguarding.

Systemic improvement: Use case outcomes to update and improve organisational policies, training, and risk assessment tools to protect children in the future better

SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL Introduction

The Self-Assessment Tool is an essential resource for organisations that safeguard children in sports and beyond. It provides a structured and comprehensive framework for systematically evaluating current practices, policies, and procedures. By using this tool, organisations can gain critical insights into their operations, identifying areas of strength and pinpointing aspects that require improvement or adaptation. This self-reflective process is instrumental in driving meaningful change and ensuring that safeguarding measures remain robust and effective.

Engaging in regular self-assessment allows organisations to stay aligned with the dynamic and evolving landscape of child protection. Laws, standards, and best practices in this field are constantly being refined, and proactive evaluation ensures that organisations do not fall behind.

The tool facilitates the updating of policies and procedures, ensuring they reflect the latest advancements and recommendations in child safeguarding. This adaptability is vital in addressing new challenges and risks that may emerge over time.

Beyond compliance, the Self-Assessment Tool fosters a culture of continuous organisational learning and improvement. It encourages teams to embrace accountability and collective responsibility, cultivating an environment where safeguarding is not seen as a static obligation but as an integral, ongoing commitment. Organisations can build a shared understanding of their safeguarding objectives by engaging staff, volunteers, and leadership in the self-assessment process and strengthen their capacity to prevent, identify, and respond to potential concerns effectively.

Ultimately, this tool is not just a mechanism for evaluation but a catalyst for transformation. It empowers organisations to create safer, more inclusive environments where children can thrive.

Through thoughtful self-assessment, organisations demonstrate their unwavering dedication to upholding the rights and well-being of every child they serve, setting a standard of excellence in child protection.

Why do we need to self-assess our organisations?

Organisations committed to child safety must engage in regular self-assessment to ensure their safeguarding measures remain effective and relevant. A structured evaluation process, like the one outlined, supports the identification of strengths and areas for growth, fostering a proactive approach to child protection.

1. Keeping Policies Dynamic and Relevant Safeguarding policies should evolve to address changes in legal requirements, societal expectations, and the organisation's specific needs. By reflecting on questions such as “Is there a dedicated team responsible for updating policies?” organisations can confirm whether their framework is adaptable and inclusive. Including diverse perspectives and integrating feedback from children and staff ensures these policies remain both practical and comprehensive.

2. Enhancing Training and Skill Development Strong safeguarding relies on well-trained staff and volunteers who are confident in their roles.

Evaluating the availability of scenario-based training and re-certification programs highlights whether the organisation is equipping its team with the tools and knowledge to handle safeguarding concerns effectively. Ongoing training ensures that the workforce is prepared to address challenges and maintain a high standard of care.

3. Fostering Transparency and Collaboration An inclusive and transparent culture is vital to safeguarding efforts. Self-assessment questions like “Are children involved in shaping safeguarding policies?” encourage organisations to involve stakeholders at all levels. Giving children, parents, and staff a voice builds trust and strengthens the safeguarding framework, ensuring it reflects the needs of the entire community.

4. Proactively Managing Risks Effective safeguarding is more than reactive—it’s about anticipating and mitigating potential risks. Assessing whether the organisation uses data, analytics, and external partnerships for safety audits ensures that it has robust mechanisms to prevent harm. Collaborating with external agencies can provide additional expertise, further bolstering risk management efforts.

5. Driving Continuous Improvement Scoring practices as “Fully Implemented,” “Partially Implemented,” or “Not Implemented” allows organisations to track progress and identify gaps. This approach enables them to develop

targeted plans for improvement, ensuring ongoing alignment with best practices and emerging standards.

Engaging in self-assessment demonstrates an organisation’s commitment to creating safe and nurturing environments for children. By continually evaluating and refining practices, policies, and training, organisations build trust with stakeholders while maintaining a high standard of child protection. This process enhances safeguarding measures and strengthens the organisation’s overall capacity to meet the evolving needs of children and their communities.

Evaluating a sports organisation's capacity to integrate a child-centred approach into its procedures and services extends beyond mere compliance with existing laws and moral standards.

It signifies a transformative process aimed at enhancing the organisational culture, which ultimately elevates the overall quality of its structure, governance, and professionalism of staff.

Implementing a child-centred approach to children’s rights necessitates a profound commitment to the principles of inclusion, safety, and developmentally appropriate practices. Ideally, this commitment aligns with broader organisational values and ethical considerations, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive physically and emotionally.

Moreover, embracing such an approach compels organisations to engage in critical self-reflection and continual improvement. By systematically analysing and adapting their policies, training programs, and communication strategies, organisations can create an atmosphere that prioritises the well-being and empowerment of children. This enhances the immediate experience for individuals and cultivates a sustainable culture of respect and responsibility within the organisation.

In summary, integrating a child-centred perspective is essential for sports organisations striving for constant growth and improvement. Beyond satisfying regulatory requirements, a proactive stance leads to nurturing a more robust and ethical organisational framework. By elevating the standards of governance and enhancing professional development for staff, organisations can significantly improve their capacity to serve young athletes, thereby fostering a positive impact on the future of sports at all levels.

The Tool This self-assessment tool is designed to guide organisations in evaluating and improving their child safeguarding practices across five critical areas: Proactivity, Assessment, Communication and Participation, Action, and Resolution.

Conducting a thorough self-analysis is critical as it is the foundation for genuine improvement.

When organisations engage in self-assessment, they take ownership of their safeguarding practices and gain deeper insights into what works well and where gaps may exist. This process requires transparency and a willingness to acknowledge and address potential weaknesses or blind spots. Honest reflection is about identifying problems and recognising areas of strength that can be leveraged to build more robust safeguarding mechanisms.

The importance of this self-analysis lies in its ability to help organisations move beyond compliance and towards a culture of continuous improvement. By pinpointing specific areas where improvements are needed, organisations can take targeted actions to address those gaps, whether it's updating policies, enhancing training, improving communication channels, or refining response protocols. Moreover, self-analysis fosters a mindset of accountability and responsibility, ensuring that child safeguarding remains a dynamic and evolving priority rather than a static set of rules.

This kind of self-reflection is especially crucial in child safeguarding because the stakes are so high. Children rely on organisations to provide safe and nurturing environments, and any lapses in safeguarding can have serious, long-lasting consequences. A robust self-assessment helps prevent these risks by allowing organisations to pre-emptively address vulnerabilities, ultimately ensuring their practices are practical and resilient.

By committing to a thorough self-assessment, organisations can enhance their overall safeguarding efforts, creating a safer, more supportive environment for children. This proactive approach protects children and fosters trust among stakeholders—families, staff, and the wider community—demonstrating the organisation’s dedication to upholding the highest child protection standards.

Scoring System

• Fully Implemented: Practice is established, routinely followed, and well-documented.

• Partially Implemented: Some aspects of the practice are in place, but there are gaps or inconsistencies.

• Not Implemented: No current practices exist in this area or are ineffective.

1. Proactivity: Emphasising Ongoing Effort Goal: Prevent harm by anticipating risks and continuously improving safeguarding practices. By adopting these advanced strategies, organisations can create a robust and responsive childsafeguarding ecosystem that protects children and actively involves them in their safety, ensuring a safer and more empowering environment for all.

Item Dynamic Framework

Questions for Review Policy 1. Is there a dedicated team/staff responsible for continuously reviewing and updating safeguarding policies?

2. Does the team have members from diverse backgrounds?

3. Are feedback mechanisms from children and staff integrated into policy updates?

4. Does the organisation have a clear vision of the indicators of abuse?

5. Does the organisation have a policy for the prevention of child abuse and neglect?

Score Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

Advanced Training 6. Does the organisation provide Modules adaptive, scenario-based safeguarding training and updates for staff and volunteers?

7. Is there a certification program with regular re-certification?

Transparent and 8. Are there forums for staff and Inclusive Culture children to express concerns safely?

9. Do children participate in shaping safeguarding policies?

10. Do parents participate in shaping safeguarding policies?

Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

Strategic Management

Risk 11. Does the organisation use data and Fully (1 point) / Partially analytics to mitigate risks?

(0.5 point) / Not 12. Are partnerships with external Implemented agencies established for safety audits?

2. Assessment: Evaluating Before Acting Goal: Evaluate each situation carefully before taking action to ensure a measured and effective response.

Item Initial Risk Assessment

Questions for Review 1. Is there a standardised procedure for immediate risk assessments?

Context Analysis 2. Are child-specific contexts considered when evaluating concerns?

Resource and Capacity 3. Before responding, does Assessment the organisation assess its capacity?

Review of Historical Cases 4. Are historical cases reviewed to improve response strategies?

Score Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

3. Communication and Participation: Integrating Disclosure, Reporting and fostering participation Goal: Create clear, transparent, and accessible pathways for reporting concerns and disclosures; foster participation and prioritise the voices of children

Item Accessible Systems

Questions for Review Reporting 1. Are there multiple reporting mechanisms (hotlines, online forms, dedicated post-box)?

Confidentiality and Trust 2. Are all disclosures handled confidentially?

Clear Protocols

Escalation 3. Are there clear procedures for escalating concerns?

Participation

Child-Cantered Communication Child-Friendly Information

Consulting Collaborating

4. Is participation part of our organisational culture and procedures?

5. Is communication with children age-appropriate?

Score Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

6. Do children and young people receive adequate information about what to expect from the program, activities, staff behaviour, and how to seek support if needed? and 7. Are children and adolescents Fully (1 point) / Partially invited to share their (0.5 point) / Not perspectives on identifying Implemented needs, risk analysis, and possible strategies for managing and mitigating these risks?

8. Do children and adolescents collaborate with adults in designing and implementing safeguarding measures?

Taking Perspectives 9. Do adults seriously consider Seriously young people's perspectives?

Are young people's suggestions implemented, or are explanations provided if they cannot be realised?

Spreading Awareness 10. Do adults regularly involve minors in monitoring their wellbeing in sports activities and explore together how this could impact future programming?

Family and Community 11. Is the organisation engaging Engagement with families appropriately?

12. Is the organisation engaging with local stakeholders and decision-makers?

Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

4. Action: Responding to Safeguarding Concerns Goal: Evaluate each situation carefully before taking action to ensure a measured and effective response.

Item Immediate Measures

Questions for Review Score Safety 1. Are immediate safety measures Fully (1 point) / Partially in place?

(0.5 point) / Not Implemented Interdisciplinary 2. Does the organization involve Fully (1 point) / Partially Approach internal and external (0.5 point) / Not stakeholders?

Implemented Adherence to Protocols 3. Are all responses aligned with Fully (1 point) / Partially policies and legal requirements?

(0.5 point) / Not Implemented Support Services 4. Are support services available Fully (1 point) / Partially to children and families?

(0.5 point) / Not Implemented

5. Resolution: Remedy and Long-Term Recovery Goal: Provide meaningful, long-term resolution that supports the child’s recovery and prevents future harm.

Item Long-Term Support Plans

Monitoring and Review

Feedback Loops

Legal Remedy Accountability Systemic Improvement

Questions for Review 1. Are individualized recovery plans developed for each child?

2. Is there a process for monitoring the child’s well-being postintervention?

3. Are there mechanisms for feedback on how cases were handled? and 4. Does the organization pursue legal or disciplinary actions?

5. Are policies updated based on case outcomes and new insights?

Score Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented Fully (1 point) / Partially (0.5 point) / Not Implemented

Final Assessment Summary This summary provides a snapshot of your organisation's current child safeguarding capabilities.

Each section reflects your performance in key areas, with a total score indicating overall preparedness.

Proactivity Score: ____ / 12 Measures your organisation's efforts in preventing harm by actively identifying and addressing risks. A high score indicates robust policies, comprehensive training, and a proactive risk management approach.

Assessment Score: ____ / 4 Evaluates your ability to thoroughly assess situations before taking action. A high score demonstrates a measured and effective response to safeguarding concerns.

Communication and Participation Score: ____ / 12 Assesses your effectiveness in creating clear reporting channels, fostering open communication, and actively involving children and stakeholders in safeguarding efforts.

Action Score: ____ / 4 Measures your ability to take swift, appropriate, and child-centred action in response to safeguarding concerns. A high score indicates effective protocols and a commitment to immediate safety.

Resolution Score: ____ / 5 Evaluates your success in providing long-term solutions that support the child's recovery and prevent future harm. A high score reflects comprehensive support plans, ongoing monitoring, and a commitment to systemic improvement.

Overall Total Score: ______ / 37 This final score provides a comprehensive overview of your organisation's current child safeguarding capacity. Use this score as a benchmark for future assessments and identify ongoing improvement areas. Remember, effective child safeguarding is a continuous process.

Remember: This self-assessment is a tool for growth and improvement. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, your organisation can take targeted steps to enhance its child safeguarding framework and create a safer, more supportive environment for all children.

Overall Score Range: Interpretation 32-37 (High): This score suggests that the organisation has a robust and well-implemented child safeguarding framework. They have proactive policies and procedures in place, conduct thorough assessments, maintain open communication, respond effectively to concerns, and prioritize longterm resolution and support. This demonstrates a strong commitment to child protection.

25-31 (Moderate): This score indicates that the organisation has a foundation for child safeguarding but may have some gaps or inconsistencies in their practices. They might need to strengthen certain areas, such as improving communication channels, enhancing training, or refining their response protocols. There's a good basis for improvement.

18-24 (Low): This score suggests that the organisation has significant room for improvement in its child safeguarding practices. There might be a lack of clear policies, limited training, inadequate communication channels, or ineffective response mechanisms. This indicates a need for urgent attention and action to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

Below 18 (Critical): This score indicates that the organisation has critical gaps in its child safeguarding framework. There might be a complete absence of policies or procedures, a lack of awareness, or a failure to address concerns appropriately. This poses a serious risk to children and requires immediate and comprehensive action to establish a safe environment.

Key Points to Remember: The overall score derived from the self-assessment tool serves as a vital snapshot of an organisation's current child safeguarding practices. However, viewing this score as a starting point rather than an endpoint is important. The value of this tool lies not in the score itself but in how organisations use it to reflect on their safeguarding measures critically and commit to meaningful improvements.

Identifying Strengths and Addressing Weaknesses The self-assessment process is specifically designed to uncover both strengths and areas needing development within an organisation’s safeguarding framework. It is not about assigning blame or passing judgment on current practices; instead, it provides a clear, objective view of what is working well and where additional attention is required. Organisations can foster a constructive environment that encourages honest reflection and collaboration among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders by focusing on improvement rather than criticism.

Developing Targeted Action Plans A key outcome of the self-assessment process is creating a targeted action plan tailored to the organisation's specific needs. The insights gained through this evaluation can help prioritise actions, allocate resources more effectively, and set achievable goals for enhancing child safeguarding practices. For example, if gaps are identified in staff training or policy updates, the organisation can focus on implementing scenario-based training modules or establishing a regular policy review schedule.

The Importance of Continuous Improvement Child safeguarding is not a one-time task but an ongoing commitment that requires regular evaluation and adaptation. The needs of children, the expectations of stakeholders, and the legal

and societal context in which organisations operate are constantly evolving. Continuous improvement ensures that safeguarding frameworks remain relevant, effective, and aligned with best practices. Regular self-assessment acts as a mechanism for monitoring progress, reinforcing strengths, and addressing new challenges as they arise.

Building a Strong Safeguarding Culture Engaging in periodic self-assessments helps create a culture of accountability and shared responsibility for safeguarding. By embedding the principles of reflection and improvement into the organisational ethos, staff and volunteers are more likely to see safeguarding as an integral part of their roles. This proactive mindset contributes to a safer environment for children and promotes trust among parents, community members, and other stakeholders.

A Collaborative Journey Safeguarding is not the responsibility of one individual or department but a collective effort that involves the entire organisation. The self-assessment tool provides a platform for inclusive discussions, enabling staff at all levels to contribute to shaping policies and practices. By involving diverse voices, including those of children and parents, organisations can ensure their safeguarding measures are comprehensive and representative of the community's needs.

University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health Scientific Coordinator: Prof. Simone Digennaro, s.digennaro@unicas.it Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.