Safe sport is about creating positive sporting experiences and having a set of actions to keep everyone safe from harm. It encompasses children, young people and adults with a focus on prevention of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, and neglect.
Child protection is about the actions taken in response to a specific concern for tamariki or rangitahi who may be suffering, or is at risk of suffering, harm or abuse. It requires referral to specialized child protection services, the police and expert local organisations that are trained to provide advice and manage cases if they arise.
Athletics NZ guidelines around safeguarding is based on core principles which align with Sport NZ’s Safe Sport for Children policy and Athletics NZ Member Protection regulations.
- We believe children and young people have a right to have fun and be safe in our sport.
- People should feel respected, valued and encouraged to enjoy their participation in athletics and to reach their full potential.
- Athletics New Zealand, Centres, member clubs and coaches, as leaders, organisers and deliverers of athletics, have a duty of care when it comes to children and young people and will take steps to ensure they can participate safely in the activities we provide.
- Athletics activities are uniquely placed to contribute to safeguarding and the welfare of children and young people. Coaches and volunteers have a responsibility to be a good role model and to be a listening ear if a young person has a concern.
Athletics NZ expects all Centres, clubs, coaches and volunteers to participate in creating a culture of safeguarding within our sport through education, policy development and safe sport conversations.
Our National Safeguarding Officer is available to offer training and support to all members and we encourage members to take advantage of local training opportunities as they arise.