Equipping Volunteers to have confident conversations

2-MINUTE READ

Background

As part of Safeguarding Adults Week, the Sport Welfare leads from West Midlands-based Active Partnerships delivered a meaningful and practical session for club volunteers focused on the often-challenging task of facilitating difficult conversations.

From discussions with volunteers across West Midlands clubs, it became clear that many are being asked to address sensitive issues with fellow members. Whether managing behaviour on the touchline or handling personal concerns within teams, these conversations can feel daunting without the right tools and confidence.

How Energize Got Involved

Working collaboratively across the region, Energize Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin joined other Active Partnerships in the West Midlands to coordinate this welfare-focused learning session. Together, the group identified a shared need to help volunteers manage real-world situations effectively, with the goal of strengthening welfare practice and promoting positive sporting environments.

What Happened

The session, delivered by CMP (Conflict Management Plus), provided delegates with the chance to explore real-life scenarios and how to approach sensitive issues constructively and confidently.

Through interactive discussion and guided reflection, participants developed practical strategies they could take back to their clubs — helping to foster a culture where concerns are addressed early and with empathy.

By equipping volunteers with these skills, the session supported the collective aim of ensuring clubs remain safe, respectful, and inclusive spaces for everyone involved.

The Impact

Feedback from attendees highlighted how valuable it was to learn techniques for handling them with confidence.  The session reinforced the importance of open communication and empowered them to take proactive steps in maintaining a positive welfare culture within their clubs.

Looking ahead, we will partner again with CMP in early 2026 for a follow-up workshop. This next session will build on the learning, delve deeper into advanced communication tools, and continue to support volunteers in championing welfare and inclusion across community sport and physical activity.

If your club would like to learn more about upcoming welfare workshops or how to get involved, please contact Leah Goode, Programme Manager - Sport Welfare at Energize STW.