Empowering our community through knowledge, awareness, and prevention.
Introduction
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and education is our most powerful tool for prevention. This page is a central hub for resources, training materials, and vital information to help you recognise, prevent, and respond to safeguarding concerns.
Whether you are an athlete, coach, parent, or volunteer, we encourage you to use these resources to help us build a safer sporting environment for all.
1. Understanding Child Abuse & Protection
Recognising the signs of child abuse is the first step in protecting our young athletes.
What is Child Abuse?
A deliberate act of maltreatment that can harm or is likely to cause harm to a child’s safety, well-being, dignity, and development.
The Four Main Types of Abuse:
| Type | What It Is | Key Signs to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Abuse | Intentional physical force causing injury (e.g., hitting, burning, kicking). | Unexplained bruises, burns, or fractures; fear of a particular person; wearing inappropriate clothing to hide injuries. |
| Sexual Abuse | Any sexual activity with a child, including non-contact acts (e.g., grooming, exposure). | Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviour; difficulty walking/sitting; STDs; sudden behavioural changes. |
| Emotional/Psychological Abuse | Repeated acts that harm a child’s self-worth (e.g., humiliation, isolation, threats). | Age-inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviour; difficulty walking/sitting; STDs; sudden behavioural changes. |
| Neglect & Abandonment | Failure to meet a child’s basic needs (e.g., food, supervision, healthcare). | Constant hunger; poor hygiene; unattended medical needs; being left alone for long periods. |
In St. Vincent and the Grenadines (2023 Data):
- 37% of reported cases were Sexual Abuse
- 17% were Physical Abuse
- 43% were Neglect and Abandonment
- 3% were Psychological Abuse
Source: Child Development Division, Ministry of National Mobilisation, et al.
2. Human Trafficking & Exploitation Awareness
Human Trafficking is a serious crime and a reality in our region. Know the signs.
What is Human Trafficking?
The recruitment, transportation, or harbouring of persons by means of threat, force, coercion, or deception for the purpose of exploitation.
The AMP Model:
- ACTION: Recruiting, transporting, or harbouring a person.
- MEANS: Using force, fraud, or coercion.
- PURPOSE: For exploitation, including commercial sex or forced labour.
For children, only Action and Purpose need to be proven.
Types of Exploitation in Trafficking:
- Forced Prostitution & Sexual Exploitation
- Forced Labour (e.g., domestic servitude)
- Child Soldiering
- Street Begging
- Sale of Organs
- Forced Marriage
SVG’s Stance:
- SVG is a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking.
- The Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act (2011) criminalises human trafficking, with penalties of up to 35 years in prison.
3. Mental Health & Psychological Well-being
A safe environment is crucial for the mental health of our athletes.
The Positive Impact of Safeguarding:
When athletes feel safe and valued, they are more likely to develop:
- Confidence and High Self-Esteem
- Strong Motivation
- Mental Resilience and Effective Coping Strategies
The Effects of Abuse and Neglect:
Experiences of abuse can lead to:
- Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression
- Challenges in forming trusting relationships
- Long-term psychological harm
Quote from a Sports Psychiatrist:
“I was talking with a sports psychiatrist every day, he helped me be myself.“
4. Key Contacts & Emergency Resources
In an Emergency, always call 911 or 999.
Local Support Services:
| Service | Contact | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Child Development Division | 456-1111 Ext 502 493-6569 / 493-7576 | Care and protection of children; investigates child abuse and neglect. |
| Anti-Trafficking in Persons Unit | 456-1750 / 457-1211 [email protected] | Investigates human trafficking; supports victims. |
| Local Police Station | 911 / 999 or your nearest station | To report any crime or immediate danger. |
International Reporting:
- World Athletics Safeguarding: [email protected]
- Athletics Integrity Unit: [email protected]
Report to World Athletics if the concern involves an international-level individual or an official at a World Athletics Series event.
5. Downloadable Resources & Guides
Access our full library of documents for a deeper understanding.
Individual Documents:
- [PDF] TASVG Safeguarding Policy – Our complete policy document.
- [PDF] Child Abuse Awareness in SVG – Presentation by the Child Development Division.
- [PDF] Human Trafficking 1-on-1 Guide – By the RSVGPF Anti-Trafficking Unit.
- [PDF] Psychological Effects of Safeguarding – Presentation by Mr. Kevan Glasgow.
- [PDF] World Athletics Safeguarding Guide – Comprehensive guide for Member Federations.
- [DOC] Safeguarding Concern Reporting Form – Printable form for reporting.
6. TASVG’s Commitment to Training
Mandatory Induction:
All individuals representing TASVG (coaches, administrators, athletes, chaperones) must complete an online safeguarding induction session. This covers:
- Recognising signs of abuse.
- Understanding appropriate boundaries.
- Following proper reporting procedures.
- Upholding our Codes of Conduct.
Contact TASVG to schedule your mandatory induction training.
A Final Message
“Don’t let abuse be your child’s story: Make a change. End child abuse.”
By educating ourselves and each other, we can create a culture of safety and respect that allows every athlete to thrive.
Need Immediate Help or Advice?
Contact the TASVG Safeguarding Officer:
Delcia Stay-Layne | [email protected] | +17845297323
