Safe Sport Resources
Ontario Para Network is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful sport environment for all participants.
We work alongside our NSOs, PSOs, athletes, coaches, and partners to promote consistent education and awareness around Safe Sport. Our approach aligns with the standards of the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP) and the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS, 2025).
The safety and well-being of our athletes remains our top priority.
Below you will find resources to support Safe Sport across our programs and community.
Safe Sport Training
The Safe Sport Training module developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) will help anyone involved in sport identify and prevent situations of maltreatment.
Making Headway
Concussions can happen to anyone taking part in sport and recreation, and can sometimes have serious consequences. Coaches at every level must be able to identify the signs and symptoms of a concussion and know what to do when they suspect a participant has suffered one.
OUR COMMITTMENT
We believe:
- Safety and dignity come before performance
- Inclusion and accessibility are essential—especially in adaptive sport
- Everyone deserves to feel respected, valued, and supported
Our Safe Sport approach is built on three pillars:
Awareness
Creating understanding of what safe and unsafe behaviors look like.
Prevention
Providing education, policies, and training to reduce risk.
Response
Taking all concerns seriously and responding with care, confidentiality, and accountability.
CANADIAN SAFE SPORT PROGRAM (CSSP)
As of April 1, 2025, the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP) is the national system for addressing maltreatment in sport in Canada.
The CSSP is independently administered by the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) and is aligned with the most current version of the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS, 2025).
This ensures:
- Independent and unbiased handling of reports
- Clear processes and defined timelines
- Access to support for individuals involved
REPORT THROUGH CSSP
- Online: https://cces.ca/report-safe-sport
- Phone: 1-866-971-2777
Reports can be made anonymously.
WHAT IS MALTREATMENT?
Maltreatment includes, but is not limited to:
- Physical abuse
- Psychological or emotional abuse
- Sexual misconduct
- Neglect
- Bullying, harassment, or discrimination
All forms of maltreatment are prohibited.
SAFE SPORT IN ADAPTIVE SPORT
Safe Sport in para and adaptive sport environments includes additional considerations:
- Respect for disability, identity, and lived experience
- Safe and appropriate use of adaptive equipment (e.g., sport wheelchairs)
- Clear boundaries when providing physical assistance or support
- Accessible communication and reporting processes
- Awareness of power dynamics (coach–athlete, caregiver–athlete)
Creating a safe environment means ensuring accessibility, dignity, and respect in every interaction.
POLICIES AND CONCERNS
Ontario Para Network maintains policies that support a safe sport environment, including:
- Code of Conduct and Ethics (Page 20)
- Complaints and Discipline Policy (Page 55)
- Inclusion, Diversity, and Accessibility Policy (Page 84)
- Screening Policy (background checks) (Page 32)
- Concussion and safety protocols (Page 74)
EDUCATION & TRAINING
Safe Sport education is required or recommended for:
- Coaches
- Staff and volunteers
- Officials
- Program leaders
Training may include:
- Safe Sport e-learning (CCES)
- Respect in Sport (or equivalent)
- Accessibility and inclusion training
Education is key to preventing harm and creating positive sport experiences.
REPORTING A CONCERN
If you experience or witness something that doesn’t feel right, you are encouraged to speak up.You can:
- Report through the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP)
- Contact Ontario Para Network directly
- Use anonymous reporting options
All concerns are taken seriously and handled with care and confidentiality.
SUPPORT RESOURCES
Support is available for anyone affected by maltreatment in sport.
- Canadian Sport Helpline: 1-888-83-SPORT
- Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP) support services
- Local crisis and counselling services
You are not alone.
WHO THIS APPLIES TO
Safe Sport applies to everyone involved in Ontario Para Network programs, including:
- Athletes
- Coaches
- Officials
- Volunteers
- Staff
- Parents and caregivers
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES)
Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP)
Coaching Association of Canada
Respect in Sport: Common requirement across many PSOs and NSOs
Wheelchair Basketball Canada – Safe Sport