“The announcement from the Sports Minister, Tracey Crouch MP, on Thursday that cross-departmental agreement has been reached to change the law on the ‘position of trust’ so that it includes sports coaches is a positive one.
“The loophole, which has meant that sports coaches have not been regarded as holding a ‘position of trust’ and therefore not subject to the same restrictions as people such as teachers, when it comes to relationships with children under the age of 18, is something we have urged Government to close.
“It is now critical that the amendments to the existing law are effective and enforceable by the relevant authorities, whilst keeping the administrative requirements for grassroots clubs manageable. As a sector, we have a responsibility to protect all of our young people and we hope this announcement from Government will help provide a robust and clear legal framework to make sure all children can enjoy the benefits of being physically active in a safe environment.
“We will continue to work with our members in creating a culture of safeguarding. A lot of progress has been made in the sector and we know sports organisations are committed to safeguarding the welfare of children in sport. We will watch very closely how this new law develops, as ever the detail will be important, but at this stage feel that this is progress – which is why we welcome it as a good example of different departments working together.”
The Sport and Recreation Alliance welcomes Government’s commitment to investing in community sport, recreation and physical activity, and its recognition of the social and economic value it provides.
Read more
The National Sector Partners Group has issued a joint statement following the announcement of the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review today.
Read more
Today Sport England has announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive, Simon Hayes, who will begin the role in September.
Read more
Joining the Sport and Recreation Alliance is pretty simple, but worthwhile!
Register now
