This document was drawn up as part of the PARCS project of DCI-Belgium. It is intended to serve as a guideline throughout the process of setting up or improving a Child Safeguarding Policy (CSP) policwithin an organisation, but cannot be used as a sole support: an effective and sustainable CSP can only be ensured by a comprehensive and participatory process organised within the organisation. There are specialist caregivers who have been trained to assist organisations in developing their CSP. Their contact details can be found on the web platform https://www.tupeuxledire.be/encadrants/

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Sports and recreational activities play a fundamental role for children and their development. The supervisors (whether they are child care workers, trainers, or others) are committed to ensuring the well-being of the children and to creating bonds of trust. However, like all of children’s living environments (families, schools, etc.), the sports and recreation sector is not immune to the risks of violence committed against children (by an adult, by other children). Moreover, because they are places of socialisation, sports and recreation organisations are places where the child can find a place to speak, a way to express his or her doubts and fears. It is not uncommon for a child to confide in his or her supervisors about a problem experienced at home, at school, or within the sports or recreation organisation itself. Similarly, supervisors may be concerned about a child showing signs of neglect or abuse. Despite their compassion and good intentions, supervisors are not always equipped to deal with certain difficult situations. 

The results of the CASES research conducted in 2021 in several European countries, including Belgium, on the issue of violence experienced by children in sport, oblige us to come together: 

• 4 out of 10 children have experienced neglect in their sports organisation; 
• Almost 7 out of 10 children have suffered psychological violence; 
• 1 child out of 2 has suffered physical violence; 
• Almost 4 out of 10 children have suffered non-contact sexual violence (photos taken without their knowledge, harassment, etc.) 
• 1 child out of 4 has suffered direct sexual violence (e.g. fondling, rape, etc.). 

It should be noted that, according to some studies, organisations frequented by children may be subject to increased interest from malicious people. These figures reveal the extent of the phenomenon and must be taken into account. The violence referred to here is caused by children among themselves or by adults to children. The sectors of sport, recreation, or youth movements are committed to guaranteeing the right of children to be protected from violence, and there are many initiatives that bear witness to this.

In general, if there are concerns, they must be addressed. It is not the organisation’s responsibility to investigate, but it is part of its obligations to share its concerns. The best interests of the child always come first. 

In other countries, for any organisation that has direct or indirect contact with children, it is mandatory to have a child safeguarding policy. 

Therefore, we encourage organisations to adopt a Child Safeguarding Policy (CSP) specific to their needs in order not only to protect children, but also to support supervisors in providing a caring, protective, safe, and happy environment.