The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026
The Ann Craft Trust and NSPCC Sport delivered joint training to more than 80 Team England staff, along with Team England Designated Safeguarding Officers for the Games.
The aim of the training was to equip Team England Staff and Designated Safeguarding Officers with the knowledge and confidence to:
- Know what to do and who to speak to if they have a concern about an athlete, staff member, or volunteer.
- Be aware of the part they play in creating a positive environment for everyone to perform at their best.
We also highlighted the importance of looking after their own wellbeing during the intense Games period, as well as those around them.
Emma Speer, Safeguarding Lead at Team England, said:
As Lead Safeguarding Officer for Team England, one of my priorities has been ensuring that everyone travelling to the Games feels confident in their role in creating a safe and supportive environment. The training delivered by The Ann Craft Trust and the NSPCC has been a key part of that preparation.
The sessions were engaging, practical, and tailored to the realities of a Games environment. This gave our Designated Safeguarding Officers the knowledge and confidence to recognise concerns, respond appropriately, and understand the part they play in safeguarding our team.
The training has also helped strengthen the relationships across our DSO network, creating a collaborative approach that will be invaluable during the Games.
Ultimately, effective safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. This training has helped us build a workforce that is better equipped to support our athletes, staff and volunteers so everyone can enjoy a safe, positive and successful Games experience.
We wish Team England and all participants every success at the 2026 Commonwealth Games and look forward to seeing the positive impact of their commitment to safeguarding throughout the event.