Leadership and Life Balance
How Do I Choose a Safe Sports Club for My Child in the UK?
Rhema Adelaja · National Champion & 4x DUX
Ask six things: who the welfare officer is, whether the club belongs to a national governing body, and whether it has a safeguarding policy, trained staff, checked coaches (DBS) and a complaints process. A well-run club welcomes these questions. Always seek professional advice if you are unsure.
The answer
- Ask who the designated welfare officer is. Someone should be available for parents, children, staff and volunteers to raise a worry.
- Ask whether the club is affiliated to a recognised national governing body (NGB). If it is, it has to meet national standards. If not, it may be overseen by the local authority or another national body. Not all clubs are affiliated, so check.
- Ask whether there is a safeguarding policy with a clear procedure for any concern, however small, and a named, contactable person responsible for it.
- Ask what safeguarding training staff and volunteers have.
- Ask whether coaches and officials were recruited through safer recruitment: a clear job description, references and a criminal records (DBS) check.
- Ask whether there is a complaints procedure and a written code of behaviour.
- Notice how the club answers. A well-run club should welcome your questions.
- If you are unsure, ask your sport's governing body or a qualified sports professional. Parents can always seek professional advice.
Last checked 2026-10-16 against the official page(s) listed below. Rules and wording change, so check the club's own policy and the official pages again before you act.
For information only. This is general information for student-athletes, not medical, legal, financial or professional advice. Talk to a qualified professional about your own situation. Terms
Rules and amounts change. Check the official source before you act. Last checked: 16 October 2026.