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NEW Adult Wellbeing & Protection in Sport (AWPS) Training Course

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22 May 2026

We are delighted to be organising an Adult Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (AWPS) course for our members.  Details below:



The Adult Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (AWPS) course, is a brand new course developed by sportscotland, is the benchmark training program for identifying and managing adult safeguarding concerns within Scottish sports clubs and organizations. While child protection has historically dominated sports training conversations, this program shifts the focus to protecting adults—defined in this context as individuals aged 18 and over—and managing risks associated with vulnerable participants.


Course Overview and Prerequisites


  • Target Audience: Coaches, club leaders, volunteers, officials, and designated Wellbeing and Protection Officers (WPOs).

  • Age Requirement: Open to anyone aged 16 years or older who coordinates or delivers sports activities.

  • Prerequisites: None.

  • Duration: A single 3-hour session designed to easily fit around volunteering or working schedules.

  • Delivery Formats: Available as an interactive in-person workshop or via a virtual classroom led by live tutors


Core Learning Outcomes


Participants finish the course with the specific skills needed to recognise harm and act correctly under Scottish legislation. The curriculum covers:

  • The Legal Landscape: Understanding adult protection and safeguarding frameworks specifically applicable to Scottish law, such as the Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007.

  • Recognizing Abuse: Identifying the categories of adult abuse, neglect, and exploitation, alongside physical or behavioral warning signs. 

  • Handling Disclosures: Learning exactly how to respond when an adult shares a concern, minimizing duress while preserving vital information.

  • Reporting Procedures: Navigating local reporting lines and identifying where to access expert support, such as the Children First Case Management Support Service or the Ann Craft Trust.

 

Driving a Safe Sporting Culture


Unlike simple checklist exercises, the AWPS workshop heavily emphasizes developing a proactive culture. Organizers use interactive case studies to show how clubs can move away from reactive crisis management. Instead, the course trains sports leaders to integrate open reporting and human-rights-based safeguards into every tier of their club, ensuring all participants can perform free from harassment or bullying.

 

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