Enhancing Child Protection in Berlin's Sports Scene: A Proactive Approach
The Landessportbund Berlin is taking a proactive stance on child protection by establishing six full-time coordination centers. Acknowledging the significance of prevention, Meral Molkenthin, LSB's child protection representative, emphasized the need to address and eliminate taboos surrounding the topic. The coordinators, boasting pedagogical backgrounds and years of experience in sports, will bolster preventative measures, offer intervention case support, and collaborate on protection concepts.
"Prompt assistance for children and young individuals at risk of violence, as well as association and club members, is our priority," asserted LSB President Thomas Härtel. With approximately 39 child protection reports in 2022 and another 43 by October 2023, the need for enhanced protection measures is palpable.
Creating a Safe Haven for Children in Sports
The introduction of these full-time coordinators, equipped with educational backgrounds and extensive experience, serves to offer support to children potentially susceptible to violence within associations and clubs. By promoting open dialogue and fostering trust, these coordinators hope to create a safer environment for children, enabling quicker intervention in potential situations of harm.
Breaking Down Barriers to Child Protection in Sports
Investigating broader trends and initiatives surrounding child safety can offer valuable insights. Organizations specializing in internet safety, such as Childnet, are leading the way in creating safer digital environments through education and awareness campaigns. Emulating these approaches allows sports associations to establish robust reporting mechanisms, edifying programs, and engaged parental involvement, leading to improved child protection.
Adopting successful models, like that of South Bronx United, which emphasizes comprehensive support, directly addressing interpersonal violence, and collaborating closely with parents and guardians, is another promising avenue. Lastly, adhering to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) focus on athlete wellbeing, which includes stringent measures against harassment and abuse, is essential for ensuring the utmost protection for children participating in sports.
As measures like these are implemented, the incidence of child protection issues and interpersonal violence in sports is expected to decline, ultimately resulting in a safer environment for children.
