Sport NI has launched a pilot Adult Safeguarding Service in partnership with Volunteer Now. The service targets sports clubs, governing bodies and organisations across Northern Ireland. It runs until March 2027.

The initiative offers advice, guidance and practical support for handling adult safeguarding concerns. It aims to foster welfare and protection in sports settings.

Sport NI's interim director of sport, Rebecca Hope, stated the service protects participants, coaches and volunteers. She said it supports their sporting involvement and builds inclusive environments.

This follows sector engagement that identified a need for more adult safeguarding help. It supplements Sport NI's work with the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit on child safeguarding.

Ruth Mulholland, safeguarding manager at Volunteer Now, called the launch a key step for adult protection standards in sports organisations.