Survey reveals alarming levels of intimidation and insults at children’s sports events
A recent survey conducted by the NSPCC, a leading children’s charity in the UK, has revealed that around one in four parents has seen or experienced intimidation, threatening behaviour or insults while watching their children from the side-lines of a sports event. The survey, which was part of the NSPCC’s campaign to highlight the importance of parental support in children’s sporting life, also found that 28% of parents claimed to have witnessed kids facing negative behaviour at a sports club or activity. As a result, 68% of these parents said they or their youngsters had felt uncomfortable because of it but almost one in five parents said no action had been taken to stop it.
The NSPCC wants parents to recognise that negative behaviour can impact their children and their pleasure in the sport. Sir Peter Wanless, the chief executive of the charity, said: “Being your child’s biggest supporter can help instil in them a lifelong love of sport and help them build friendships and confidence. It can also help you learn about what makes a club safe and how to spot signs something may be wrong.” He added: “You can make a difference by being involved and supporting a child in a positive way.”
Sports stars and clubs back the campaign to keep children safe in sport
The NSPCC’s campaign, called Keeping Your Child Safe In Sport Week, aims to bring together parents and sports clubs to help give knowledge about the role they play in their youngster’s sporting life. The campaign has been supported by several sports stars and clubs, who have shared their experiences and advice on how to encourage and protect children in sport.
Skateboarder Sky Brown, 15, the youngest British Olympian, said: “All parents should feel they are equipped with the information that they need so that their kids can be with a safe sports club where their kids are having fun. Having my family with me is really important to me on my journey. My dad and my brother are always by my side and mum makes me feel at home when we are on the road and cooks the best food.”
Alan Shearer, 53, former England footballer, said: “It’s really important we support children in sport. It can be an emotional experience for young people. It’s vital adults are around every step of the way.”
Football clubs Liverpool, Everton, Leeds United, Sunderland, Birmingham City and Tranmere Rovers plus the Lawn Tennis Association and Volleyball England also back the campaign.
How to report bullying or abuse in sport
The NSPCC has urged parents to report any incidents of bullying or abuse they witness or experience at children’s sports events. The charity has a dedicated helpline for anyone concerned about a child in sport, which can be reached at 0808 800 5000 or by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk. The charity also has a website with resources and guidance on how to keep children safe in sport.
The NSPCC’s Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) works with sports organisations across the UK to help them minimise the risk of harm to children and young people. The CPSU provides advice, training and support on safeguarding issues and best practice. The CPSU website has information on how sports can address bullying and create a positive environment for children.
