When a safeguarding concern arises in sport or indeed generally, it must be taken seriously and appropriately investigated.
Undertaking a safeguarding investigation is a sensitive but essential process that ensures the welfare of everyone it impacts while maintaining fairness and transparency. Within a sporting context coaches, safeguarding officers, and club officials all play key roles in this structured process, and the investigation itself must be handled in line with legal obligations and governing body guidance.
Initial Disclosure or Concern Raised
The process begins when a concern is reported. This could involve:
- A direct disclosure from a child or adult at risk;
- An observation of concerning behaviour;
- A report from a parent, teammate, or third party; or
- A flagged issue during routine safeguarding checks
The person receiving the concern should listen without judgment, reassure the individual, and record the details accurately using their exact words where possible. Immediate risks should be identified and escalated as necessary. The key action at this stage it to listen and gather all of the relevant information.
Reporting and Recording
Once a concern is raised, it must be reported to the club or organisation’s Designated Safeguarding Officer (DSO). It is the DSO’s responsibility to manage the next steps and determine in accordance with the relevant policies and procedures whether the matter:
- Can be managed internally as a low-level concern; or
- Requires external referral to statutory agencies (e.g. police, social services).
All concerns, no matter how minor they seem, should be documented securely and objectively. This record will form the foundation of any subsequent investigation.
The DSO, should always refer to the governing authority for advice when it has been made aware of a safeguarding issue a they may invoke separate safeguarding procedures.
Initial Risk Assessment
The DSO will carry out an initial risk assessment to evaluate the immediate safety of any individuals involved. This might include:
- Removing a coach or volunteer from duty temporarily;
- Changing training arrangements;
- Notifying parents or carers (where appropriate and safe).
If the concern involves potential criminal activity or a serious breach of safeguarding policy, the DSO must refer the case to external authorities without delay. In the UK, this could mean contacting the Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) or police child protection units.
Launching the Investigation
If and when it’s appropriate to investigate internally (often once statutory agencies have concluded their inquiries), the club or governing body will begin a formal safeguarding investigation. This process should include:
- Identifying an appropriate investigator (trained and impartial);
- Gathering written statements from witnesses and individuals involved;
- Reviewing relevant documentation (e.g. training registers, communication records);
- Conducting interviews / discussions in a sensitive manner; having regard to the person being interviewed or spoken to.
The investigation must be conducted fairly, respecting the rights of both the complainant and the subject of the allegation and having regard to the relevant key safeguarding principles.
Outcomes and Actions
Once the investigation concludes, the findings will determine what action is required. This may include:
- No further action (if unfounded);
- Disciplinary action (e.g. warnings, suspension, removal from role);
- Policy review and training for staff;
- Referral to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) or other relevant regulatory body.
The DSO will communicate the outcome to those involved, ensuring support is offered to the individuals affected—regardless of the decision.
Learning and Improvement
Every safeguarding investigation should conclude with a lessons learned review. Clubs should reflect on:
- Whether procedures were followed;
- If the concern was identified early enough; and
- What improvements can be made to prevent future incidents
Conclusion
Undertaking a safeguarding investigation in sport as for any other organisation is a serious responsibility; it requires clarity, sensitivity, and the application of a thorough independent and objective investigation process. A transparent, well-managed investigation process is key to maintaining a safe, respectful, and accountable sporting environment.
Expert Guidance
Huw Davies has extensive experience advising organizations on corporate governance and safeguarding issues, an undertaking investigations within sports and generally. If you have questions about this article or need support in relation to safeguarding implementation or investigations within your organisation or local authority, feel free to contact Huw at HDavies@1ec.co.uk.
