Safe Sport | My Voice Matters
We have published the Scottish Gymnastics wellbeing and safe sport strategic framework My Voice Matters.
The aim is to raise the standards for wellbeing and safe sport by championing children’s and vulnerable adults’ voices and safeguarding their rights. It is about driving cultural change for an enjoyable, safe and inclusive gymnastics community.
The framework outlines the projects and support over four years to ensure that wellbeing and safe sport is the golden thread through everything we do. We are guided by five principles that reflect our shared values and vision for an uplifting gymnastics experience for all. Our approach is one of care, commitment and constant learning. Our members have helped us create a roadmap to achieve our goals.
Scottish Gymnastics head of wellbeing and safe sport Lindsey Booth said:
“Hearing the voices of those who matter has been central to developing this framework and how we’ll deliver each project. Gymnasts have shared what’s working well and highlighted areas we need to work on. We also listened to parents, carers, coaches and other adults who gave us a clear direction for the next four years.
“The bottom line is we want everyone to understand what safe sport looks like and feels like, whatever your age or role, in every club, event and activity. If it doesn’t look and feel like that, then we ask that you let us know, as we want to help.
“We are grateful to members of our youth forum for making a video explaining what safe sport should look like and feel like. Their message to children, young people and vulnerable groups is ‘my voice matters – I am heard, I have fun, I am safe, and I belong’.”
Safe and Inclusive
Chief executive officer Doc McKelvey added:
“My Voice Matters is not just a strategic framework; it is part of a cultural shift. It is our commitment to listening, learning, and evolving to ensure the gymnastics experience in Scotland is exceptional, safe and inclusive.
“Our members, the wellbeing and safe sport committee members, and staff have contributed to this framework. We now invite every member of our gymnastics community to actively engage in this journey. Your voices shape the future of gymnastics in Scotland.
“Together, we can create a gymnastics community where every voice matters, where safety and wellbeing are paramount, and where the joy of gymnastics is accessible to all.”
You can read the strategic framework and watch the video below.