An endorsement on behalf of the
NSPCC

Many children and young people are involved in Cricket and other sports every
day. Some are able to gain sporting skills and knowledge; some gain confidence
and take part in a healthy leisure activity and others are provided with
competitive opportunities. It is to be hoped that all the children and young people
who come into contact with sports organisations also receive care and attention,
and that all organisations protect them from coming to any harm whilst they are
working with them.

Although for the overwhelming majority of children this is the case,
unfortunately it is not so for all. Very occasionally a young person is hurt through
an accident which might have been prevented or by the deliberate action of
someone who seeks to harm a child. Abuse is always traumatic for the child and,
although most abuse happens in the home, sports organisations must accept that
prevention of abuse is part of their duty to care for the children with whom they
work, and amend their practice accordingly.

The NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit is committed to making sport a
safer environment for children and young people. We do this by promoting the
need for child protection policies and procedures to all involved in sport, by
working with sport and other organisations to establish high standards of practice.

Cricket offers young people a healthy lifestyle and opportunities for personal
development, fun and friendship. It is important that we give all young people the
experience of enjoying the benefits of sport. As we develop sporting activities, it
is vital that we develop safety mechanisms to ensure young people enjoy their
sport without being exposed to harm.

The NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit is pleased to endorse Crickets work
that has been undertaken in relation to the safety and welfare of children involved
in its activities. The child protection policy and procedures adopted by the England
and Wales Cricket Board will make a significant contribution to safeguarding the
children and young people participating in its sports activities.

Steve Boocock
Child Protection in Sport Unit Director
October 2003