We all want children and young people to enjoy taking part in sport – and parents play a key role in that.
At Parkour UK, we understand how important parents and carers are in their children’s sporting journey. From giving lifts and cheering them on to supporting their training, your encouragement and response to their progress, challenges, and achievements shape how they experience parkour.
We’ve created this section of our website to help you find the guidance you need to keep your child safe and happy in sport. Whether you’re looking for advice on choosing the right clubs and activities or ways to support them positively, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
We all want children and young people to enjoy participating in sport, and as a parent, you play a crucial role in making that happen. Below, you'll find guidance on how to be the best supporter for your child and their club or organisation, how to choose a safe and supportive environment, and what to do if you have concerns about safeguarding or poor practice. For more information on how to be a positive sports parent, click here.
All coaches should be appropriately qualified and have undergone DBS checks to help ensure a safe environment for everyone. The club should provide a Coaches' Code of Conduct outlining their expectations and responsibilities.
Any volunteers involved with the club or organisation should be trained and DBS checked. Many clubs also have a Safeguarding or Welfare Officer and clear policies in place to protect participants and maintain a safe and supportive atmosphere.
A good parkour club will prioritise clear and open communication. They should actively seek feedback from participants, keep you informed about safeguarding matters, and ensure their environment is welcoming and inclusive for people from all backgrounds.
Parkour UK provides a Safe Sport Policy, Reporting Procedures, and additional guidance to help clubs and organisations create a safe and positive environment for parkour. You can find all our safeguarding resources here.
Choosing the right parkour club for your child is important. A safe and supportive environment helps them grow, build confidence, and enjoy their journey in sport. Here are some things to look out for when deciding if a club is the right fit.
For more advice on finding a safe and positive sports club, check out these resources:
If something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to trust your instincts. Some red flags to be aware of include:
A good environment should feel like a positive and safe space where children are encouraged and supported and can enjoy parkour without fear of judgment or pressure. If you ever have concerns, don’t be afraid to speak up—your child’s well-being always comes first.
Parkour UK has established Codes of Conduct that include guidelines for parents and carers (coming soon). Here’s what you can expect and how you can contribute positively to your child’s parkour experience.
Communities will provide clear expectations regarding behaviour, sometimes outlined in a Code of Conduct. It’s important to familiarise yourself with these guidelines to help create a supportive environment.
Treat coaches, volunteers, and all participants with respect. A positive atmosphere is built on mutual respect, which fosters collaboration and enjoyment for everyone involved.
Remember, this is your child's sport, not yours. Encourage them to enjoy the experience and have fun. Your support should empower them to explore their passion and develop at their own pace.
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility. Everyone in our community plays a role in protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect. If you have any concerns, it’s important to speak up.
Your first point of contact should be the Safeguarding or Welfare Officer in your community. They are trained to provide advice and can escalate the matter to the police, social services, or the Parkour UK Safeguarding team, as necessary. For more information on how to report a concern, please click here.
It’s essential that parents and carers feel heard and taken seriously when they raise concerns. Your voice matters, and addressing issues promptly helps ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.
If you have concerns or need support, you can contact Parkour UK by calling 07503743852 (available during office hours) or emailing safeguarding@parkour.uk.
You can also contact Childline at 0800 1111, the Police by dialling 999, or Children's Social Services for assistance. For additional support and resources, including internal and external guidance on safeguarding and mental health, please visit our Resources Hub here.
We encourage parents to explore the Resources section, where you can access our Safe Sport Policy and other safeguarding-related guidance. You will also find valuable information, including useful websites for children, young people, and adults at risk, on these pages: Safeguarding for Children and Safeguarding for Adults at Risk.
There is a free eLearning course specifically for parents on How to Keep Your Child Safe in Sport. This course is suitable for any parent of a child participating in sports, regardless of your prior safeguarding knowledge. It takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and provides valuable insights.
If you notice anything concerning or have a health and safety concern, such as unsafe equipment, please report it immediately to the Welfare Officer, coach, or reception (if available). Remember, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Every individual who interacts with children plays a crucial role in creating a safe environment.
