Information for children and young people

Don't let anyone spoil the fun

Sport is fun – it gives you the opportunity to make new friends, try out new activities and amaze yourself with what you can do.

But for a few children, the fun is spoilt by adults who do or say things during sporting activities that hurt or frighten them.

What these children are experiencing may be abuse. And they may feel they have no one to talk to about it. Or that no one will listen to them or take what they say seriously.

Is something worrying you? Don't keep it to yourself

  • tell an adult you trust as soon as possible, such as:
    • a parent or someone else in your family
    • another member of staff at the sports club
    • a teacher or school counsellor
    • your doctor or school nurse
  • your club will have a child protection officer – find out who they are and tell them about your worries
  • make sure you're not alone again with the person who has tried to harm you

Childline is here for you

Childline is a free 24/7 helpline for children and young people in the UK and you can call about any problem.

Phone 0800 1111 or visit the Childline website to chat online to a counsellor.

You might also want to take a look at Childline's Sport and exercise pages for info and advice on issues relating to sport.