Table tennis is an accessible sport and one that we believe should be open to everyone to take part in. Whether that’s at a Ping Hub, a local club or a 4* competition, we’re committed to ensuring that table tennis is a place for everyone.
Helping to make the sport open and accessible can mean marking times of the year that specifically focus on certain people groups and October brings several awareness campaigns such as ADHD Awareness Month, Black History Month, Dyslexia Awareness Week from 5-11 October and World Mental Health Day on 10 October.
These campaigns are a great opportunity for clubs to start conversations that help make table tennis safer and more welcoming for everyone.
Inclusion is a fundamental part of safeguarding. Everyone experiences sport differently and the more we understand those experiences, the better we can create environments where everyone feels safe, included and able to enjoy the sport. When people feel they belong, they are also more likely to speak up if something is wrong.
Ideas for your club this October
- Black History Month: Celebrate the players, coaches, volunteers and communities who make table tennis what it is and think about whose voices and achievements your club could share. Find out more – https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/
- ADHD Awareness Month: Many people with ADHD thrive in table tennis, enjoying the routine, focus and fun it offers. Small changes can help, such as clear instructions, short drills and regular breaks. Find out more – https://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org/
- Dyslexia Awareness Week: Think about how you share information. Short, clear messages, visual demonstrations and spoken instructions can help everyone, not just those with dyslexia. Find out more – https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/
- World Mental Health Day: Encourage open conversations, check in with your players and volunteers, and make sure everyone knows who your Welfare Officer is and where to find support. Find out more – https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/campaigns/world-mental-health-day
From awareness to action
Awareness days are a great starting point, but the real difference comes from what happens next. Listening to your members, understanding their needs and making your club more inclusive are all part of good safeguarding.
We’ve also refreshed the safeguarding section of our website to make information easier to find. You’ll now find:
- A dedicated safeguarding section in the main menu
- Quick links to key guidance, policies and resources on each page
- A new safeguarding news feed, bringing all our safeguarding updates together in one place
Take a look at our safeguarding pages: https://www.tabletennisengland.co.uk/safeguarding/ .
If you ever have a concern or a question, contact our safeguarding team at [email protected]
