Based on the International Olympic Committee Consensus Statement (2016), Safe Sport is defined as “an athletic environment that is respectful, equitable and free from all forms of harassment and abuse.”
Coaches have a duty of care to protect their athletes and to report any abuse when they see or experience it. Coaches are to also ensure that they work in an open environment, abide by the Coach’s Code for Ethics and Follow the Rule of Two to protect themselves from vulnerable situations.
All participants in sport, including athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers, have a right to engage in Safe Sport. In 2018, Sport Singapore (SportSG) embarked on a multi-agency collaborative effort by launching the Safe Sport Commission and made a rallying call for the sporting fraternity to collectively safeguard sport.
In consultation with the International Olympic Committee and local authorities, SportSG and the Safe Sport Commission has developed policies and guidelines aimed towards eradicating harassment and abuse in sport. This includes establishing a reporting process for Safe Sport-related matters and providing awareness programmes to ensure the public is kept informed and updated of the available support.
“We recognise the importance of creating a safe sporting environment. This is a responsibility shared by all members of the sporting fraternity and the Safe Sport Commission will continue to work with SportSG to strengthen its Safe Sport framework, policies and processes. Together, we can achieve a safe and abuse-free sporting environment for all in Singapore.” said Ms Chan Yen San, Chairman of the Safe Sport Commission.
Looking to seek help and report an incident related to Safe Sport?
All coaches are required to be Safe Sport Accredited.
The online training module can be accessed through SportSG-ED learning platform - Understanding Safe Sport as a Coach. The module will equip coaches with the knowledge and resources on how to recognise, prevent and address harassment and abuse, and in adopting safe sport practices in your coaching.