Code to protect sportspeople from harm revealed

New Zealand has "significant shortcomings" in the way people involved in sport and recreation are cared for, according to Sport Integrity Commission chairman Don Mackinnon.

Experiences of significant harm from sexual abuse, bullying, violence, discrimination and racism have been noted in several recent independent reviews into national sporting bodies.

Other threats to New Zealand's sporting integrity such as match-fixing and sports betting were also under the microscope.

To try to address the issues, the new Sport Integrity Commission has developed the Code of Integrity for Sport and Recreation which aims to give greater clarity on what is acceptable and unacceptable behaviour, and what should be done when an integrity issue arises.

The document known as the Integrity Code has been developed in collaboration with community groups and athlete representatives and is open for public feedback until 1 November.

Elite competitors and weekend warriors will be protected by the code.

The commission's chief executive Rebecca Rolls said feedback was being sought from grassroots participants to national organisations.

"We're aiming to lift standards to make experiences safer and fairer and create a level playing field for everyone," Rolls said.

"Ultimately, we want organisations to adopt this code and work collaboratively with us to prevent harm to participants. We believe the best way to get there is to make sure all parts of the community have been heard."

Adoption of the Integrity Code is voluntary, and sport and recreation organisations that adopt it will have access to the dispute resolution, investigative and disciplinary functions the Commission can provide.

Organisations that adopt the Integrity Code will be bound by its core obligations, set out as six minimum standards:

• Prohibit behaviours that are a threat to integrity
• Implement a fair and effective dispute resolution process
• Proactively safeguard children, young people, and vulnerable adults
• Notify the commission of issues of serious concern
• Cooperate with the commission on dispute resolution, investigations, and monitoring
• Provide information to members about the Integrity Code

The underlying purpose of the Integrity Code is to protect the safety and well-being of athletes, coaches, volunteers and officials at all levels of sport and recreation.

The code will not apply to historical behaviour.

People can provide feedback [www.haveyoursay.sportintegrity.nz here].