Child protection in clubs: active concepts for a safe future!

Child protection in clubs: active concepts for a safe future!

In the Ludwigsburg district, the need for sustainable child protection in clubs is becoming increasingly clear. The importance of the active discussion and further development of protection concepts is emphasized by those responsible, Third Price and Tiefenbach. They emphasize that clubs not only have to prove themselves on paper, but also actively work on the concepts. Current incidents in clubs make the urgency of protective concepts obvious and make it clear that it is time to increase society's awareness. Tiefenbach hopes for a “snowball effect” that can be triggered by intensive commitment in the clubs.

Developing an effective protection concept is a complex process that can take around five years. Every association has different requirements to comply with, from naming confidants to dealing with suspected cases. In this context, it is gratifying that the state of Baden-Württemberg supports up to 80 percent of training on protection concepts in smaller clubs. The Child Protection Association also offers external support to accompany the clubs in creating the concepts.

Risk analyzes and prevention training

A central aspect of the protection concepts is the implementation of risk analyses. These take place every three years and include all offers as well as the children, young people and families being looked after. The aim is to identify potential hazards and thus develop preventive measures. Risk analysis covers a variety of topics, including structural risk factors, educational risk factors, and the culture of the organization. Findings from these analyzes are used to continuously develop the protection concepts. In addition, all new employees are required to take part in prevention training against sexual violence. These training courses are intended to sensitize staff to the topic right from the start in order to minimize the risk of attacks.

Events such as specialist days and information evenings are regularly offered in the district and demonstrate a growing interest in this crucial topic. The response was particularly great at the last event in 2024, which underlines the social importance of child protection.

Seal of quality and long-term perspectives

Another important element in improving child protection in clubs is the awarding of a quality logo. This will be awarded again and given a year number to enable active advertising. Third Prize and Tiefenbach would like parents to inquire about this quality seal before registering their child, which not only gives the clubs greater visibility but also strengthens the sense of responsibility in society.

The continuous maintenance and improvement of protection concepts is a permanent challenge. Tiefenbach emphasizes that a protection concept is never completely complete and that there can be no 100% security. But through constant evaluation and the commitment of everyone involved, a safe environment can be created in which children and young people can be protected and supported.

For further information on the topic of child protection in clubs and the implementation of protection concepts, please use the following links: Bietigheim newspaper, Overdyck Youth Services and German sports youth.