Child safeguarding in athletics is everyone's responsibility. We all have a duty to promote the welfare of children and we must ensure safeguarding practices reflect statutory responsibilities, government guidance and comply with best practice and Sport Ireland requirements.

All members of Athletics Ireland have the right to participate  in our sport free from threat of harassment, bullying or abuse, especially children and young people. They are particularly vulnerable and everyone involved in our sport has a role in ensuring they are always kept safe. 

The Sport Ireland ethos of safe, fun, inclusive and fair sport for all applies to everyone. Each club must complete and display their Child Safeguarding Statement for Athletics Clubs. This is mandatory for compliance with the Children First Act 2015.

If anyone has a concern about a child in their club, they should first speak to the Club Children's Officer and refer your concern to Tusla, the child and family agency or your local Gardai. 

Child safeguarding is everyone's concern and we all have a duty to care and to act if we have concerns regarding the welfare of children in our sport. 

The Athletics Ireland Child Safeguarding team are available to support on childwelfare@athleticsireland.ie.