Cheer Sport Ireland - Safeguarding
Safeguarding is central to the work of Cheer Sport Ireland. As the National Governing Body for cheerleading, CSI is fully committed to protecting the welfare of all children and young people participating in the sport. Through robust safeguarding policies, clear reporting procedures, Garda Vetting compliance, and mandatory training standards, CSI ensures that every club, coach, volunteer, and official upholds the highest standards of child protection in line with Irish legislation and national sport guidance.
Safeguarding Commitment & Child-Centred Approach
Cheer Sport Ireland is fully committed to safeguarding children and young people in accordance with the Children First Act 2015, Sport Ireland Safeguarding Guidance, and national child welfare legislation. The organisation operates a child-centred approach where the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of children are the highest priority in all decision-making, planning, and delivery of activities. Safeguarding principles are embedded across governance, coaching, competitions, and club operations to ensure children can participate in cheer sport in a safe, positive, and inclusive environment. CSI recognises that safeguarding is fundamental to good governance and essential to maintaining trust, integrity, and accountability within the sport.
Safeguarding Structures, Compliance & Accountability
Cheer Sport Ireland maintains robust safeguarding governance structures aligned with Sport Ireland requirements. A National Children’s Officer and Designated Liaison Person oversee safeguarding implementation, supported by trained Club Children’s Officers and Club DLPs across affiliated clubs. Clear reporting procedures are in place to ensure concerns are managed promptly, confidentially, and in line with statutory reporting obligations. CSI enforces mandatory safeguarding training, Garda Vetting compliance, safe recruitment practices, and Codes of Behaviour for all individuals working with children. Regular safeguarding reviews, policy updates, and governance monitoring ensure continuous compliance with national standards and reinforce organisational accountability.
Safe Environments, Education & Continuous Improvement
Cheer Sport Ireland is committed to creating and maintaining safe environments across all activities, including training, competitions, events, and online engagement. Structured supervision, safeguarding risk management, and Event Welfare systems are embedded throughout the organisation to protect participants and respond effectively to concerns. CSI promotes ongoing safeguarding education, awareness, and culture development across clubs, coaches, volunteers, parents, and athletes. Policies and safeguarding practices are reviewed regularly to reflect legislative changes, emerging risks, and best practice guidance, ensuring the organisation continues to meet and exceed Sport Ireland safeguarding standards.
The National Safeguarding Officer
Joan Heapes serves as the National Children’s Officer and “Relevant Person” for Cheer Sport Ireland, holding overall responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children across the organisation. In this role, Joan leads the implementation of child-centred policies, supports clubs in maintaining strong safeguarding standards, and ensures that the voice and wellbeing of young participants remain central to all CSI activities.
As Relevant Person under safeguarding legislation, she oversees the organisation’s Child Safeguarding Statement, supports compliance with national requirements, and works closely with the Designated Liaison Person, clubs, and statutory authorities to ensure safeguarding concerns are managed appropriately, professionally, and in the best interests of children.