Safeguarding in Sport

SDS is the co-ordinating body of sport for children, participants and players with a disability of all ages and abilities in Scotland. SDS is fully committed to:

  • Creating a culture of safety to ensure the wellbeing and protection of children and adults at risk; and
  • Providing safe and secure environments for all children, participants, players, coaches, volunteers, officials and spectators to enjoy sport.

Sport can have a very positive influence on the life of an individual with a disability. Sport can offer traditionally excluded communities the opportunity to participate, compete and achieve success in stimulating environments. Sport is fun and enjoyable and through sport essential life skills such as independence, social interaction, improved self-esteem, teamwork, leadership and confidence can be developed.

This will only be successful and positive if the well-being and safety of participants are paramount. Those in responsible positions such as volunteers, leaders or coaches must adopt practices and follow procedures that are supportive, empowering, protective and motivate the participants to give their best.

For more information on our policies and procedures please consult our Wellbeing & Protection Policy.

If you require support in the area of safeguarding in sport, or have concerns, please contact SDS Safeguarding Lead, Gavin Macleod, on gavin.macleod@scottishdisabilitysport.com / 07588 463 996, or SDS Safeguarding Officer, Lynne Glen, on lynne.glen@scottishdisabilitysport.com or 07800 523 740.