Sport and physical activity can be a lifeline for people experiencing domestic abuse. It can provide a safe space, a trusted community, and time away from coercive control.
Domestic abuse can affect anyone. But anyone involved in sport and activity, whether they are participants, coaches, staff, volunteers, or supporters, is in a unique position to spot the signs, and provide support where it is needed.
With support and contributions from The Broxtowe Women’s Project, we’ve put together a new Domestic Abuse in Sport Toolkit.
This toolkit should help people in the sport and physical activity sector to:
- Have confidence in talking about domestic abuse, both broadly and in response to specific cases
- Acknowledge that domestic abuse can and may be happening within their sport, helping to avoid the ‘it doesn’t happen here’ mindset
- Recognise the signs of domestic abuse
- Respond safely to disclosures or concerns
- Understand referral pathways
- Embed good practice into safeguarding frameworks
- Consider how to manage a situation if they suspect that a club member or participant may be an abuser
Hannah Shah, Safeguarding Adults in Sport Manager, said:
Access the Domestic Abuse in Sport ToolkitWe’re really pleased to be able to share the new Spotting the Signs – The Domestic Abuse in Sport and Activity Toolkit. This has been a long time in the making, with extensive support and input from Broxtowe Women’s Project.
It’s developed into a substantial toolkit that we really hope will support sport and physical activity organisations of all sizes to raise awareness and consider their approach to domestic abuse. It’s a free resource that covers policy and practice, along with advice on how to approach challenging conversations. It also features pointers for risk assessments, and a directory of support services.
Please do share it widely.