‘Play Your Part’ in ensuring the safety of children in sport 

More than five million children and young people take part in a sporting activity outside of school at least once a week, making it a hugely important consideration for parents and carers, as well as the clubs and organisations where they participate. 

The need to be collectively vigilant is highlighted by the fact that the NSPCC handled 623 child welfare contacts where the risk or concern was taking place in a sports setting during the 2024-25 period – up 47% on the previous year. 

As a result, the NSPCC has produced a selection of resources for its Play You Part campaign – which will be widely distributed during Keeping your Child Safe in Sport Week –  that parents and carers can use to make the right choices and bring the best out of their child in their sporting environment. 

A toolkit will be sent to all Club Welfare Officers at Volleyball England-affiliated clubs ahead of the week and clubs are urged to use this to help parents learn how to best support their children before, during and after activities. 

Available for clubs to send out are videos and written guides for parents and carers, as well as downloadable posters that can be put up in venues and wallet cards that can be given out at sessions. 

Volleyball England will also be amplifying the Play Your Part message with a series of supporting social media posts and pieces of website content during Keeping your Child Safe in Sport Week. 

There will also be a chance for Club Welfare Officers and parents and carers to attend educational workshops, which will be available on the Club Hub. 

“Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children in volleyball is a shared responsibility,” said Laura Allcoat, Volleyball England’s Strategic Manager for Safeguarding and Membership.  

“By fostering secure, supportive environments, we empower young athletes to develop with confidence, integrity, and joy. 

“As parents, your role goes beyond encouragement, it is about actively safeguarding your children’s wellbeing, ensuring they participate in environments that are safe, respectful, and nurturing. 

“Let’s, as a collective, stay informed, ask questions, and work together with coaches and clubs to keep sport a positive and protected space for every child.” 

For more information on the Play Your Part campaign, please click here.