The second annual TEAM UP Regional Safeguarding Workshop recently wrapped up at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, uniting 65 participants from seven Pacific Island nations. This event aimed to bring together safeguarding focal points from Australian Government-supported sport for development organizations across the region, as well as regional service providers, to enhance practices that ensure safe sports environments.
Building upon the success of last year’s inaugural workshop, this three-day gathering focused on improving skills related to reporting, referrals, and case management concerning safeguarding issues within the sports community. Participants engaged in interactive discussions and hands-on activities to gain insights into various forms of abuse, ensuring the protection and well-being of all involved in sports, with a particular emphasis on women, girls, and individuals with disabilities.
Roshika Deo, the Team Up Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion Safeguarding Adviser, highlighted the workshop’s importance in educating participants on effective reporting mechanisms. “This workshop brought together sports administrators and service providers from across the Pacific, including those involved in gender-based services and women’s rights organizations,” Deo stated. She outlined three key objectives of the workshop: educating sports organizations about recognizing abuse signs, familiarizing participants with incident documentation and initial response protocols, and introducing accountability mechanisms and case management processes.
Participants also discussed strategies to strengthen connections between safeguarding champions and service providers, aiming to bolster regional support systems. “The workshop provided a platform to share experiences, discuss common challenges, and collaborate on solutions that prioritize the safety of all participants in sports,” Deo remarked.
Supported by the Oceania Impact Network, this initiative is part of the broader effort to provide safeguarding training for sport for development programs and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) throughout the Pacific region. The workshop underscored a collective commitment among regional stakeholders to cultivate a safe, inclusive, and empowering sports ecosystem, working towards a future devoid of violence and discrimination.
This workshop represents a significant step forward in creating a safer sports environment, reflecting the increasing awareness and responsibility of sports administrators and organizations to prioritize welfare and inclusion for all participants. With ongoing commitment from various stakeholders, the future of sports in the Pacific looks promising, fostering a culture of safety and equity.
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