Listen when a child reports harm
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Learning hub · ParentsParents · Safeguarding · Guide · 6 min to use
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Listen When a Child Reports Harm
Your first response can help a child feel heard without turning the conversation into an investigation. Focus on immediate safety and the organization's established reporting route.
When to use it
Use this when an athlete describes threatening, abusive or otherwise harmful behaviour.
Put It into Practice
- Stay calm, thank them for telling you and listen in their own words; avoid leading questions, requests for proof or promises of secrecy.
- Check what is needed for immediate safety and contact appropriate emergency help if necessary; otherwise use the designated safeguarding or reporting process promptly.
- Record the child's words and relevant facts as accurately and privately as possible, limiting access to those handling the concern; do not confront the alleged person yourself.
What It Can Look Like
A caregiver listens to a concern after practice, notes the athlete's exact words and contacts the designated reporting lead without discussing it in the parent chat.
Your notes stay on this page. They are not saved or sent. Print before leaving to keep a copy.
Take it with you: Believe that the concern deserves attention and let trained, responsible people handle assessment and investigation through the appropriate process.