New figures reveal 10% rise in child protection concerns in sport

The NSPCC has reported a 10% rise in the number of child protection concerns raised about sports settings, as it launches a rebranded safeguarding service to help organisations strengthen child protection practice.

New figures released by the charity show its Helpline handled 683 contacts from adults across the UK during 2025/26 relating to child protection concerns in sport, up from the previous year.

Sexual abuse and exploitation was the most commonly reported concern, accounting for almost a fifth of contacts, followed by emotional abuse and physical abuse.

Adults contacting the Helpline raised concerns about the conduct of sports professionals, the behaviour of other parents and weaknesses in safeguarding procedures within clubs and organisations.

The figures have been published as the NSPCC renames its Child Protection in Sport Unit to NSPCC Sport to mark the service's 25th anniversary.

The service, established in 2001, works with organisations including the Premier League, the Football Association, UK Sport and the Sport Councils across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to help create safer environments for children taking part in sport and physical activity.

Christian McMullen, professional learning services director at the NSPCC, said: "NSPCC Sport has been supporting organisations for 25 years, helping them to understand how to prioritise children and young peoples’ welfare, as well as guiding them on how to implement robust safeguarding procedures.

"However, these new figures highlight that there is still work to be done within sports settings and NSPCC Sport hopes to reach even more organisations to help them create a safe and supportive environment for young people.

"No child should feel intimidated, scared or worried when taking part in sports, and any adult who has concerns should reach out to the NSPCC for support."

One parent who contacted the NSPCC Helpline reported concerns about the behaviour of a dance teacher.

"My 14-year-old daughter has told me about a dance teacher at her school who has been engaging in relationships with other pupils that I believe are inappropriate. Apparently, this teacher communicates with some of the girls over text and meets up with them outside of class. I am reluctant to approach the school directly about this myself, based on how previous complaints have been handled. I really don’t know how to deal with this but would like to request anonymity."

Another anonymous caller raised concerns about the leadership of a sports club.

"I wanted to raise a concern about the director of a sports club. I’ve heard them say awful things about the children, some of which were openly discriminatory.

"The way they run the club is so chaotic that I don’t think they have any policies in place. I’m afraid of what they might do if they knew I’d spoken up so I’d like to remain anonymous."

Team GB artistic gymnast and NSPCC Friend Max Whitlock OBE said the charity's work had an important role in ensuring children can participate safely in sport.

"To be a part of this moment for a service that has existed for 25 years – solely aimed at supporting children in sport – is a huge privilege to me.

"Sport gave me so much growing up and every child should have the opportunity to take part without fear or harm.

"I urge all clubs and sport groups to work with NSPCC Sport to ensure they are providing a safe and happy space for children to take part in activities that have the potential to shape their lives."

The NSPCC said the renamed NSPCC Sport service will continue to provide guidance and support to sporting organisations on safeguarding policies and procedures, with a focus on helping children enjoy sport in safe and inclusive environments.