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| From the left, Phil Weaver (PGA Chairman), Mike Round,
(Golf Foundation) and Sandy Jones (CEO of PGA) with Lucy(7) and Katie Phillpots(10). |
A new child protection policy has been launched by golf's governing bodies and which other major sports are set to follow.
The initiative, welcomed by Sports Minister Richard Caborn MP, is spearheaded by The Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) alongside the Golf Foundation, and has been developed with the help and guidance of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).
Mr Caborn points out that it has been developed, not because of any associated problems in golf, but in response to an issue that has become part of modern society.
"When the UK's first centre for child protection in sport was launched in October, sport took a giant step forward in the fight against child abuse. We all want sport to be an enjoyable and safe experience for our children. I welcome this initiative and trust that other governing bodies will quickly follow in golf's footsteps."
Its launch coincides with the publication of 20,000 Children in Golf booklets, being distributed to clubs, organisations and those involved in junior golf and developing the grassroots of the game.
Sir Michael Bonallack, President of the Golf Foundation adds: "The future of golf and its development lies with children at the grass roots level, and their progress is dependent on the support they receive from adults.
"So their potential and fulfilment from the sport can be maximised, it's essential every adult with an influence in the game has a basic understanding of the emotional, physical and personal needs that contribute to a happy childhood."
Colin Montgomerie and Alison Nicholas have also endorsed the initiative and believe that it will prompt other sports to follow suit.
The policy sets out guidelines for coaching, recognition of abuse and its effects, children's needs and general welfare.
It's the result of a working party comprising all the golf unions and the English, Scottish and Welsh Ladies associations, the LGU, R&A, Golf Foundation and the PGA. The Irish golf unions already have a similar scheme with the Irish Sports Council.
Because of the rising number of children entering the game, the PGA is ensuring all professionals working with youngsters are properly trained in this initiative.
