TCIFA Launches New Safeguarding Initiative
As part of an ongoing initiative to improve the capacity and integrity of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA)to better serve our community, we are proud to officially launch the TCIFA Safeguarding team.
This Safeguarding Committee headed by Dr. Yunelsis Rodriguez Baez has dedicated their time to create a safe and welcoming environment for those parties most vulnerable to harm, neglect and abuse. This entails cultivating and maintaining new purpose intent policies, effectively handling safeguarding reports and following the relevant procedures to report and protect any and all victims involved.
Child abuse is a worldwide issue, when asked to why it is important for the TCIFA to take action President Sonia Fulford emphasizes, “Abuse in sports is an issue that affects countless young athletes around the world: Sports have the power to teach valuable life lessons—teamwork, perseverance, discipline—but sadly, the experience can be tainted by abuse in its may forms whether physical, emotional, sexual, or even neglect”.
The coach-athlete relationship, while meant to foster growth and skill, can sometimes be misused for control, intimidation, or exploitation. It's important that we, as a community, recognize the signs of abuse and take action to prevent it.
Prevention for us, begins with creating an environment where children and other vulnerable individuals feel safe, supported, and respected. Coaches, parents, and officials must be well-trained in recognizing inappropriate behavior. The TCIFA is assiduously working to implement policies and changes that protect young athletes. Zero tolerance for any form of abuse WILL be the standard. But it doesn't end there.
We must encourage communication open or anonymous, where athletes feel empowered to speak up without fear of retaliation. A culture of trust, respect, and accountability should be at the heart of every sports program. Together, we can create a safe and positive space for every child to enjoy the benefits of football without fear.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association is committed to protecting our football community by enforcing our policies against abuse to endure sport remains a source of joy, growth, and empowerment.
The work has just already begun to truly fortify and put in these principles and beliefs to further that will make this initiative successful. That includes training members of the Safeguarding Committee to fully understand their roles and responsibilities. When asked about the work her team has been doing, Dr. Yunelsis Rodriquez emphasized their passion saying, “Our safeguarding team is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where individuals are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of care and responsibility, ensuring that all safeguarding concerns are promptly addressed with respect, integrity, and compassion. By fostering a culture of vigilance, awareness, and accountability, we aim to empower and safeguard the rights of those we serve, while working collaboratively with partners to prevent abuse and promote well-being. Through the FIFA Safeguarding program, I am now, more than ever, equipped with a wealth of knowledge to manage and provide dispute resolution support wherever necessary.”
We are focused now on advancing our plan to encompass adult safeguarding initiatives, workplace safety, anti-discrimination policy where individuals are protected from harm, abuse, and neglect. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of care and responsibility, ensuring that all safeguarding concerns are promptly addressed with respect, integrity, and compassion. By fostering a culture of vigilance, awareness, and accountability, we aim to empower and safeguard the rights of those we serve, while working collaboratively with partners to prevent abuse and promote well-being within our Turks and Caicos Islands football community. We encourage all parties within our community to join the conversation and create impactful initiatives to maintain a productive atmosphere. “
Please use the link below to assist us with all safeguarding complaints.