The mission of UK Coaching Week 2023 is to educate people about the critical role of Duty to Care in coaching and its impact on the nation’s health and well-being.  This year’s theme reflects the importance of coaches putting people – their safety, well-being and welfare – at the centre of their coaching practice and learning how to better care for their participants, as well as themselves. 

The critical role of safeguarding has been brought into laser focus by the publication of The Whyte Review and its recommendations to better protect participants. This has further galvanised the commitment to creating safer environments for all.

The ‘care system’ in sport and physical activity should protect everyone equally. That includes participants, coaches and everyone else involved in sport and physical activity, from officials and administrators to wider support staff like nutritionists, physios and strength and conditioning specialists. However, it is important to recognise that Duty to Care goes beyond safeguarding.

Duty to Care also has an integral role to play in improving people’s mental health and well-being and can be a key tool for solving deep-rooted social issues. Learning more about the principles of Duty to Care will equip coaches with ideas and strategies for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion at and beyond their sessions.

By embracing their Duty to Care, coaches can help ensure that the people they coach enjoy a great experience that encourages lifelong participation.