While The Ann Craft Trust were making last minute plans for Safeguarding Adults Week 2025, organisations across Wales marked their own National Safeguarding Week.
What an inspiring week it was.
I had the privilege of spending two full days at an event with safeguarding leads and deputy leads from National Governing Bodies across Wales. We took the time to reflect on why safeguarding is so vital to everything we do.
My sincere thanks go to Sport Wales for generously funding the event and hosting us. I’d also like to thank my colleagues from the Child Protection in Sport Unit (NSPCC) for jointly delivering a meaningful and energising programme.
The event began with a warm welcome from Carl Harris (Assistant Director, NSPCC) and Emma Gibson (Head of Safeguarding Adults in Sport, Ann Craft Trust), who reminded us of the strength and commitment of the safeguarding community within Welsh sport.
Our first morning featured an excellent session from CPSU colleagues on Safer Events, followed by a moment of reflection as we observed the Remembrance silence. The afternoon brought a powerful and thought-provoking Bystander Intervention Workshop delivered by Kindling Interventions.
Day two was equally impactful, beginning with an eye-opening session from Marcella Leonard on identifying and managing risk. We closed the event with group work and reflection on Psychological Safety and Courageous Conversations, expertly facilitated by Mandy Williams.
All in all, it was a dynamic and engaging two days, full of learning, discussion, and the chance to strengthen relationships across the sector. I am grateful to have shared this time with such dedicated colleagues, and encouraged by the collective commitment to safeguarding in sport across Wales.
Key Takeaways From The Week
The focus on online harm is particularly relevant now. More people than ever before are using digital platforms. And people tend to start using them from an early age. This could be increasing the risks of cyberbullying, grooming, exploitation, and fraud.
The National Conference involved people with lived experience. This was a move to make safeguarding policies more grounded, and not just theoretical.
Finally, supporting voluntary organisations through DBS training helps ensure safer recruitment. This is crucial for creating safer organisations.
National Safeguarding Week – Further Activity Across Wales
DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) Support
The DBS backed Wales Safeguarding Week by helping charities and volunteer organisations understand DBS-check requirements, what “regulated activity” means, and how to apply.
WCVA also organised a myth-busting online session to clarify common misconceptions about DBS checks and eligibility.
Mid & West Wales – “Positive Safeguarding Practice”
Cysur (Mid & West Wales Regional Safeguarding Board) ran a full programme of events.
They also held a multi-agency conference in Carmarthen for social workers, police, health staff, teachers etc., on how to embed good safeguarding in their practice.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg – Focus on Online Harm
Cwm Taf Morgannwg safeguarding board focused on “Online Harm: Keeping Yourself and Others Safe”.
Local sessions included:
- Cybercrime/digital stalking & harassment — With South Wales Police talking about online stalking, harassment, and violence.
- A parent-carer session on social media, substance use, and gaming – How these connect to risk, buying drugs via apps, bullying, etc.
- An in-person community event in Merthyr Tydfil to share online harm resources.
- An online fraud awareness session run in partnership with South Wales Police (Tarian) to educate about scams and online fraud.
Wider Message & Campaign
The Welsh Government used the week to pushing the idea that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, whether you’re a professional, a carer, or a member of the public.
You can learn more about National Safeguarding Week Wales here.