Prevention

In order to create an environment that leaves less room for harm and ensures a positive, safe, and enriching sport experience, Special Olympics Canada ensures that:

Policies and Procedures are in place
Coaches are Trained/Certified
Volunteers are safe sport screened
Education and Training is available
Environments are open and observable

The Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) is a call to action for sport organizations, parents/guardians, and coaches to enact responsible coaching across Canada – on and off the field. To reduce risk in sport, the Responsible Coaching Movement focuses on three key areas: Rule of Two, Background Screening, and Ethics Training.

By signing the pledge of the Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM), Special Olympics Canada is helping to ensure the protection of both Athletes and Coaches/Volunteers.

Diverse group of people in red outfits with the maple leaf in sparkles. They appear to be practicing figuring skating.

Rule of Two (Open and Observable Environments)

Special Olympics Canada encourages all staff, volunteers, athletes, and officials, to adhere to the 'Rule of Two' at all Special Olympics Canada programming, competitions, and meetings.

The Rule of Two means that two responsible adults are present during interactions and communications with an athlete. This includes in person, transportation, and online.

In effort to foster safety, enhance protection, and help reduce vulnerability for both coaches/volunteers and their athletes, all interactions should be open, observable, and justifiable, especially where there is a power imbalance or the involvement of minors.

* Keep in mind there may be exceptions in emergency situations.

Open means:

That the environment is not closed or hidden from others;
That the interaction is not taking place behind closed doors or in secluded locations;
And that others are aware that the interaction is taking place.

Observable means:

That the interaction is in a space where others can see, hear, or take note of it.

Justifiable means:

That the interaction is for good reason, and in relation to the program and roles of those involved;
And that the interaction can be easily explained if questioned.

Background Screening

Special Olympics Canada understands that screening coaches, volunteers, and administrators is a vital part of providing a safe sporting environment and has become a common practice when providing programs and services to the community. Screening can include comprehensive background or police information checks (done at regular intervals depending on the role) as well as reference letters/checks, interviews, and submission of application and disclosure forms.

Ethics Training

Creating a culture where everyone can thrive is a shared responsibility. Safe and inclusive environments help make sport rewarding and enriching for all. CAC’s Safe Sport Training provides the knowledge and skills to create those environments by recognizing, addressing, and preventing maltreatment in sport.

In addition to the CAC Safe Sport Training, there are many online training opportunities available that coaches and volunteers can take to further their knowledge in preventing maltreatment, while creating positive and safe sporting experiences for everyone involved.