Feeling Safe
It’s really important that you feel safe when you at your club, or taking part in sports activities.
If you feel uncomfortable for any reason don’t keep things to yourself.
Don’t keep it to yourself
If you think you are being abused, it’s really important you tell an adult you trust. This isn’t easy. It is possible that,
- You may feel worried about what will happen to you
- The abuser may have told you to keep quiet.
- The abuser may have threatened you.
- You may feel guilty that you didn’t stop the abuse from happening.
- The person may be well respected and someone everyone looks up to.
- You may think the problem will go away if you ignore it.
- You may not want to let your parents down.
Don’t let any of these reasons prevent you from telling someone. It’s important you get help as soon as possible. By telling someone you can stop the abuse, and protect other children.
Getting Help
- Tell an adult you trust as soon as possible. This could be a parent or family member, a school teacher or counsellor, another member of staff at the sports club, your doctor or nurse.
- Contact the NSPCC child protection helpline on free phone 0808 800 5000. They will be very understanding and will provide advice and support.
- Your club should have a child protection officer. Find out who they are and tell them about your worries.
- Make sure you are not alone again with the person who has tried to harm you.