Playing Our Part: Safe in Sport Week at Penketh Gymnastics

As NSPCC’s Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week 2025 draws to a close, we at Penketh Gymnastics are proud to reflect on the vital role we all play in making sport a safe, fun, and positive experience for every child.

This year’s theme, “Play Your Part – Bring Out Their Best,” has reminded us that safeguarding isn’t just for clubs — it’s a shared responsibility between coaches, parents, carers, and welfare teams. Every cheer, every conversation, and every moment of support helps shape how children feel about sport.

👂 Listening Matters

One of the key messages from this year’s campaign is the power of listening. Whether it’s asking your child how they feel after training or checking in when something doesn’t seem right, these small moments build trust and confidence.

🎉 Keeping Sport Fun

Children thrive when sport is enjoyable. Parents and carers play a huge role in keeping the atmosphere positive — from celebrating effort over results to encouraging respectful behaviour on and off the mat.

🛡️ Meet Our Welfare Team

At Penketh Gymnastics, we’re fortunate to have two dedicated Welfare Officers: Elizabeth and Laura.

• Elizabeth has been part of our club community for years, with all her children having trained here. Her youngest is currently a recreational member.
• Laura joined us in 2019 when her eldest became a squad member. Now, both of her children are part of our competitive squads.

Both Elizabeth and Laura bring professional experience working with children, have completed safeguarding training, and hold enhanced DBS checks. Most importantly, they’re approachable, confidential, and here to help.

📞 Contact them directly:
Phone: 07493 110938
Email: welfareofficer@penkethgymnastics.co.uk
You’ll often find them around the club — feel free to say hello or reach out if you have any concerns.

👀 See Something, Say Something

If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. Safeguarding works best when everyone is involved. You don’t need to have all the answers — just the courage to start the conversation.

🙏 Thank You

To all our parents, carers, coaches, and volunteers — thank you for playing your part. Your support helps children feel safe, confident, and ready to shine.

Let’s keep the momentum going, not just this week, but every week. Together, we can continue to build a safe and inspiring environment for every gymnast at Penketh.