Victorian sport will now be a safer place to play for Victorian children thanks to the new Child Safe Standards legislation which was introduced from January 1st this year.
Designed to empower and protect children, the Child Safe Standards apply to all sporting organisations and clubs that operate and provide services to children within Victoria. The standards incorporate strategies, policies and processes designed to ensure that junior members have the best possible experience within local sport.
With the Child Safe Standards a legal obligation for sporting clubs to now fulfil, Valley Sport will be offering a series of seven free workshops. These informational sessions will assist local clubs and their members to understand how these new laws will affect them and what they can do to become compliant with the Child Safe Standards.
“The Child Safe Standards are law, and sporing clubs need to ensure that they are in the best position possible to become compliant. This is what these workshops aim to assist in” – David Quinn, Executive Officer
Valley Sport Executive Officer David Quinn encouraged local clubs to ensure they were represented at the workshops in order to be best informed about the new laws. “It is important to note that the Child Safe Standards aren’t suggestions or options, they’re now law. The workshops that we’re providing are support based, helping walk clubs through their new obligations and reaffirming Valley Sport’s position as the first point of call for Goulburn Valley clubs looking for assistance”.
Quinn said that the organisation was pleased to be offering a high number of workshops, ensuring that equal opportunity was given to all clubs wishing to attend. “Our project staff have done a fantastic job putting together a workshop schedule that aims to comprehensively cover all of our seven shires. With such a large number of opportunities I strongly encourage all local clubs to register their attendance and put themselves in the best position to become a Child Safe Club”.
Valley Sport’s workshop series will commence on April 3rd and will feature workshops in Broadford, Benalla, Shepparton, Euroa, Cobram, Mansfield and Yea. To book your place or to find out further information on the Child Safe Standards, visit www.valleysport.net.au/child-safe-standards/