Sport NI has announced the introduction of a new pilot Adult Safeguarding Service in partnership with Volunteer Now, further strengthening its commitment to safe sport across Northern Ireland.
The new pilot service has been developed to address a gap in safeguarding provision for adults within the sporting sector and will run until March 2027. It will provide advice, guidance and practical support to sports clubs, governing bodies and organisations in managing adult safeguarding concerns and promoting a strong culture of welfare and protection.
Safeguarding remains a high priority for Sport NI as it works to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, ability or background, can enjoy sport in safe and supportive environments. The Adult Safeguarding Service adds to Sport NI’s existing partnership with the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU), which supports safeguarding arrangements for children and young people in sport. Together, these services will help provide a broadened approach to Safe Sport across Northern Ireland.
Rebecca Hope, Interim Director of Sport, Sport NI said: “We are delighted to launch our new Adult Safeguarding Service in partnership with Volunteer Now, reinforcing our commitment to safe sport. This service will ensure that participants, coaches and volunteers are protected from harm and supported throughout their sporting journey. Our goal is to create a positive, inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can enjoy sport confidently, feel valued, and truly thrive.”
The introduction of the service follows engagement with the sector, which highlighted the need for additional adult safeguarding support.
It also reflects wider developments across the UK, including recommendations from recent reviews and strategies focused on duty of care and ending violence against women and girls, as well as anticipated legislative changes such as Northern Ireland’s proposed Adult Protection Bill.
Ruth Mulholland, Safeguarding Manager at Volunteer Now added: “The launch of this service marks an important milestone for the sports sector and represents a significant step forward in improving adult safeguarding standards within sporting organisations.
“Sport should be a place where adults feel safe and strong safeguarding practices will help deliver on that principle. Volunteer Now appreciates the opportunity to provide this service and is very much looking forward to supporting the sector in this important area of work.”
For more information on the service, please visit: https://www.sportni.net/performance/safe-sport/adult-safeguarding/