The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports partnered with UK Sport, Youth Sport Trust and Caribbean Sport and Development Agency to host a symposium on Safeguarding and Child Protection in Sports for Physical Education Teachers, coaches and other sports affiliates.

Hon. Shawn Edward, minister with responsibility for Youth Development and Sports encouraged the participants to honor their duties to the children of Saint Lucia and sports development. He noted that sports not only serves as an avenue for fitness and career opportunities but also provides a safe haven for many children from their daily struggles; therefore safe environments should be provided for them.

Director of Human Services, Elizabeth Lewis also addressed the participants, and appealed to them to safeguard the welfare of children, especially those left in their care.

Through its Schools Sports Program, the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports reaches an estimated 50,000 children island wide.

“Safeguarding,” an emerging international practice is high on the agenda of the Ministry’s programming.

The symposium aims to create greater awareness and advocacy in safeguarding for persons engaged in sports activities for children.