What Is Safe Sport & Why Is It Important?
Positive sport experiences require participants to be safe and free from physical, emotional and mental harm. The devastating repercussions of bullying, harassment and abuse in sport have been well-documented. Karate BC is committed to a sport environment free from abuse that is safe for all participants. Safe sport practices are the responsibility of all members, including coaches, parents/guardians, athletes, referees, club administrators and volunteers.
Governance And Policies
Karate BC has adopted several policies aimed at addressing the maltreatment of individuals in sport. These policies align with national and provincial policies including the BC Universal Code of Conduct. Our relevant policies include:
- Membership Rights, Conduct, Disputes, and Discipline Policy
- Instructor And Coach Screening Policy and Procedures
- Volunteers Policy
A full list of Karate BC policies can be found HERE.
Advice, Guidance, And Resources Regarding Abuse
The Abuse-Free Sport Helpline was launched in March 2019 providing a safe place for victims and witnesses of harassment, abuse and discrimination to speak in confidence to a neutral third party and get the help they need.
This professional listening and referral service is available from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT, seven days a week, by phone or text at 1-888-83SPORT (77678), and by email at info@abuse-free-sport.ca.
Reporting Abuse
Karate BC, in alignment with our National Federation, Karate Canada, is committed to providing our members with safe, inclusive, and supportive training and competition environments to enable each member to achieve their maximum potential. Everyone has a role to play in creating a healthy physical and mental environment for sport participation. Karate BC is therefore committed to raising awareness about misconduct in sport, promoting open dialogue, and providing training and resources for clubs, coaches, officials, athletes, parents and volunteers around all aspects of sport safety.
Any individual who witnesses or believe they have witnessed, or been a victim or believe they may have been a victim of a breach of conduct related to safe sport (abuse, harassment, bullying, discrimination) can use this link to a confidential online reporting system: https://app.integritycounts.ca/org/itpsport
