Getting active and staying safe

Are you thinking about getting active or looking for a new activity to add to your daily or weekly routine?

How do you make sure a club or activity provider is safe and right for you if you don’t know much about them?

We want you to feel confident that your new activity provider is safe so we’ve compiled the following top tips around getting active and staying safe. Everyone should feel safe, welcomed, happy, valued, respected and confident to speak up when attending a new club or activity session.

Top Tip No 1: Ask for a trial session or to observe a session

A trial session is a great way to get a feel for the club or the activity you are interested in. This gives you a chance to speak to staff, coaches and other participants, as well as looking around the facilities. Some things to look out for while trialing or observing a session:

• Do you feel safe? Always trust your instincts.
• Do the other participants look happy/comfortable in the environment? Why not have a chat with them.
• How suitable is the activity? Are attendees being pushed just enough or too far?
• Are the facilities accessible? Can any adaptations be made if needed?
• Are the staff accommodating and approachable? Would you be happy to speak up if you felt something wasn’t quite right? Are you confident that they would listen?

Top Tip No 2: Check the club/providers policies

All clubs and activity providers should have policies and processes in place that help to keep people safe.  As a participant, you have the right to ask about these policies and the provider should be happy to share. Some of the questions you might like to ask include:

• Do you have safeguarding policies for children and/or for adults?
• Have your staff had safeguarding and inclusion training?
• Do you have a code of practice for facilitators?
• Who is your point of contact for reporting welfare concerns?
• Where can I find information about your qualifications, insurance and risk assessments?

Top Tip No 3: Go with a friend

If you’re feeling anxious about trying the session, ask a friend, family member or carer to attend the session with you until you feel more comfortable. If you’re attending the session on your own, be sure to let someone know where you are going and what time you are due back.

Top Tip No 4: Look for a different activity

If the club or activity doesn’t feel right for you, don’t feel pressured to stay. We want you to find the perfect activity to help you stay active and stay safe. With so many different activities and clubs across Kent and Medway we’re confident you’ll find something that’s right for you.