9.8 Child Safety and Protection

Keeping Children and Young People Safe in Sport

If children are to enjoy fun and positive sporting experiences at your club, it needs to be a safe environment for them. Volunteers need to be confident in working with children and know what to do if they have any concerns about a child. To find more information about protecting your junior members, click on our website www.sportireland.ie for further information on the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children's Sport.

Garda Vetting

Since 2007 Sport Ireland has commenced rolling out Garda vetting on a phased basis to NGB's. This arrangement has been approved by the Implementation Group on Garda Vetting. Sport Ireland is liaising with National Governing Bodies in respect of the introduction of Garda Vetting to the sector on a phased basis.

Each NGB is responsible for how they roll-out the vetting process within their organisation. Sport Ireland has a dedicated officer who works with the NGBs to develop and implement Code of Ethics and Garda Vetting.

Children and Vulnerable Adult Protection Procedures

Keeping children and vulnerable adults safe in sport is not just about ensuring that those who work in sport are suitable to do so. A trusted coach or leader may be the person a child trusts to tell about something that is happening in their life outside of sport. Those involved in delivering sport to children need support to be confident about safe practices and the action they should take if they have any concerns about a child.

Club Child Protection Officer

It is recommended that all clubs appoint a Child Protection Officer. This volunteer can help the club to develop and implement the child protection procedures, as well as be the first point of contact for concerns about a child.