The Authority for Integrity in Maltese Sport (AiMS) has published Malta’s first-ever safeguarding handbook specifically tailored to the sporting sector, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to promoting Safe Sport and safeguarding practices across all levels of sport.
The publication of this handbook entitled ‘Best Practices in Maltese Sport’ represents an important step forward in strengthening safeguarding standards within the Maltese sporting community and fostering environments where all participants can engage in sport safely and confidently. Commenting on the launch, AiMS Chief Executive Officer Kevin Azzopardi said: “At AiMS, our commitment to safeguarding is clear, unwavering, and central to our mission. While safeguarding is often associated primarily with the protection of children and young people, our vision extends far beyond this traditional scope. We recognise that harm, abuse, discrimination, harassment, neglect, and exploitation can affect individuals regardless of their age, ability, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or background.”
AiMS emphasises that its safeguarding efforts are not limited to protecting children and young people. The Authority’s broader objective is to create sporting environments in which all participants feel safe, valued, respected, and empowered to participate fully. AiMS believes that Safeguarding must be embedded at every level of sport—from grassroots participation to elite competition—ensuring that the welfare and wellbeing of all individuals remain at the centre of decision-making processes.
The handbook was developed following two successful consultation sessions held last year, during which stakeholders from across the sporting sector were invited to contribute their views and expertise on safeguarding matters. Designed as a practical and accessible resource, the handbook aims to support the sporting community in understanding and implementing effective safeguarding measures.
It provides clear and actionable guidance, complemented by practical examples of best practice through a series of “Do’s and Don’ts” covering a variety of scenarios, including online communication and safety, travel arrangements, and the use of changing facilities.
By promoting awareness, encouraging positive behaviours, strengthening safeguarding cultures, and offering adaptable guidance, the handbook seeks to support the consistent application of Safe Sport principles across all sporting environments.
In the coming days, all National Governing Bodies and local sports clubs will receive a copy of this important publication. Members of the public can also access a digital version of the handbook through the AiMS website at aims.org.mt.
The handbook can be accessible here: https://aims.org.mt/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Best-Practices-in-Maltese-Sport.pdf
