Hockey is a sport for people of all ages. All sectors of hockey aim to get more young people involved
and to keep adults in the game. This dual approach means that many children aged fourteen and over play alongside adults in
club teams. The standard of teams varies from social participation teams, with players still learning the sport, to those
in the national league with Scottish under 16 and 18 players in the team.
This range of people means it is important that we communicate the importance of child protection and best practice to
all involved. To do this, we have identified who should receive what information, and have designed a series of information
leaflets targeted at identified groups.
All committee members should receive a full copy of the club or district Child Protection Policy, which they are then responsible
for implementing. This can include the appointment of volunteers, organisation of activities, responding to allegations or
disciplining people if required.
All coaches, team captains and volunteers should go through an appropriate induction which includes Child Protection information.
The main content should outline standards of behaviour that must be maintained, what should be avoided and what to do if a
disclosure is made. We have designed a leaflet which explains coaches’ code of conduct, what child abuse is and what
to do in case of a disclosure.
Parents must be aware of the district or club’s positive stance on Child Protection. Action by districts or clubs
is a selling point for them. Parents should be informed of what action the district or club has taken, and what to do if they
have concerns over the actions of anyone in the club. To do this, the Scottish Hockey Union provides a leaflet that explains
the level of conduct expected of the club and where to go with any concerns. This information is also contained in the welcome
pack the SHU provides for clubs.
In Scottish hockey, there are a significant number of under 18 players who play in senior teams. This means that the senior
players have a responsibility to be role models to the younger players. There is also the possibility of a child making a
disclosure to a player, and therefore a need for them to be aware of what action to take. Our leaflet for players covers expected
conduct, how to listen to a disclosure and what steps to take if a disclosure is made.
Young people play hockey for enjoyment, to gain a sense of achievement and for the socialising that comes with being part
of a hockey team. It is important that they feel safe within this environment. They should know what behaviour to expect from
those in charge and what to do if they feel that something wrong has taken place. We also provide information on their rights
and what to do if they are unsure about a person’s behaviour.
For further information, please visit www.scottish-hockey.org.uk
We promote the child protection message through meetings with Child Protection Officers and through our Club Development
Programme. Clubs want to ensure they provide a safe environment for children, but often struggle with limited time and knowledge.
As a governing body we try to do all we can to help them keep children safe in hockey.
The Scottish Hockey Union signed up to the 2006 Accord in April 2007.
For further information please contact Ben Glencross, Development Manager, on 0131 453 9070 or email bglencross@scottish-hockey.org.uk
