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Information for parents

If you are thinking of attending a sports or leisure activity or you would like your child to join an activity, here's a few helpful tips that might help you decide if its right for you.

Questions to ask about a new sports or leisure club

Are the coaches, leaders and volunteers CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) checked?

  • A CRB check is done to make sure that coaches/volunteers do not have previous criminal convictions which may affect whether they are allowed to work with children.

Are there trained first aiders present at all times and is there an appropriate procedure for accidents?

Are the coaches/volunteers appropriately qualified and insured to lead/coach?

  • If the coaches are not qualified, this may lead to unsafe practice and risks. All qualified coaches should have insurance to cover their activities.

Does the club/organisation have the correct public liability insurance?

  • This will cover the club should any accidents happen and the policy should pay out for any injury or damage caused.

Has the group carried out risk assessments for the equipment and activities they provide?

  • Risk assessments are there to ensure that activities are carried out safely and that any risks are managed effectively.

Does the club/organisation have a child protection policy and is it available for new members to look at if they want to?

  • A child protection policy will indicate that the club has though about the welfare of their young people and that set procedures are in place to safeguard these young people.

Is the club affiliated to an appropriate organisation?

  • Sports clubs should be affiliated to their appropriated governing body (e.g. Football Association for football).

Has the club/organisation been awarded a quality mark or achieved accreditation from their sport's National Governing Body (NGB) e.g Clubmark?

More information

Further advice and guidance is available for parents and carers in the "Helping keep your child safe in sport" leaflet on the Department for Culture, Media and Sport website.

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