All children have the right to rest, leisure and play under Article 31 of The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCR). This includes the right to be provided with appropriate and equal opportunities for recreational and leisure activity.
Sport provides an avenue for realising this right by offering fun, enjoyment and achievement for children at all levels, from grassroots to elite participation. Access to sport and leisure activities supports a range of rights under the UNCRC, including the right to health, the right to join groups and clubs, and the right for children and young people to have their voices heard
Sport can also have a very positive influence on children and young people, especially when activities are led by organisations and people who place their wellbeing first. It is everyone's responsibility to respond to any wellbeing or protection issues involving a child or young person, regardless of whether it is related to sport or not. All adults working with children and young people should know how to respond to a child/young person who may be in need of help.
sportscotland, in partnership with Children 1st, work with Scottish Governing Bodies of sport, local authority sports/leisure departments, leisure trusts and sports clubs to safeguard children and young people in Scottish sport. Through our Child Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (CWPS) Service we aim to help ensure children and young people stay safe and have fun while taking part in sport. They provide advice, consultancy, resources and training for any sports organisation working with children and young people. Our training and resources are developed to build people’s knowledge and confidence in this area and develop safer sporting environments.
