Leicester-Shire and Rutland Sport has received national recognition for its commitment to safeguarding children in sport.

LRS has been awarded the Advanced Level for the National Standards for Safeguarding and Protecting Children in Sport. The top level that can be awarded, to achieve ‘Advanced’ requires sustained commitment and resources.

The standards were developed by the Child Protection in Sport Unit, a joint NSPCC and Sport England initiative, to provide a national benchmark of good practice and a framework for organisations to help safeguard and protect children and young people in sport. They cover an organisation’s policies, procedures, codes of practice, equity, communication, education and training.

The Advanced Standard Award recently achieved by LRS recognises the County Sport Partnership’s commitment across Leicestershire, Leicester & Rutland to create safer environments for children, where they can enjoy and get the very best from their involvement in sport and physical activity.

Andy Reed, LRS Chairman, said: “Sport plays a major part in the life of many children and families, whatever the level of involvement. It is so important to ensure that local organisations involved in delivering activities are working together to safeguard children from harm. This award represents our drive to make sport an enjoyable and safe activity for all.”

LRS is committed to ensuring that safeguarding and protecting children in sport remains a top priority for Leicestershire, Leicester & Rutland and will continue working to maintain this high standard.

To find out more about LRS’s safeguarding policies and procedures, please visit our website www.lrsport.org.uk.