AoC Sport is excited to be an official partner of UK Coaching Week. We highly recommend that all staff and volunteers involved in college sport take a look at the UK Duty to Care Toolkit.
Colleges are already familiar with the concept of Duty of Care, as education providers. The statutory guidance for colleges, "Keeping Children Safe in Education," addresses this. During UK Coaching Week, the focus is on highlighting the importance of Duty to Care in sports and how it forms the foundation of effective coaching, regardless of the participant's level. By prioritizing the safety, welfare, and well-being of participants, we can help them achieve their goals, attract new participants, and address inequalities.
Sport offers numerous benefits to individuals, including opportunities for health, social interaction, mental health, and personal development. It also benefits colleges by positively impacting attainment, retention, and recruitment. However, these benefits come with responsibilities. Coaches and leaders have a duty of care towards their participants. They must ensure participant safety and create an environment that fosters enjoyment and development.