September 2, 2026

From 1 September 2026, important changes to the definition of regulated activity with children have come into effect across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The update is aimed at enhancing safeguarding measures for children, including those participating in sport and physical activity.

What has changed?

Previously, some individuals who regularly taught, coached, trained, cared for or supervised children were not classed as carrying out regulated activity if they were supervised by someone already undertaking regulated activity.

That supervision exemption has now been removed. As a result, certain roles that were previously outside the scope of regulated activity may now be included, even where supervision is in place.

For sports clubs, activity providers and national governing bodies, this change could impact which positions require an Enhanced DBS check with a Barred List check in England and Wales, or an Enhanced AccessNI check in Northern Ireland.

What should organisations do?

Sports organisations are encouraged to review roles that involve regular interaction with children, particularly where individuals teach, train, instruct, care for or supervise children frequently or on overnight activities.

Roles that may be affected include:

• Assistant coaches
• Volunteer coaches
• Team managers
• Parent helpers
• Activity leaders
• Volunteers supporting camps, tours and residential trips

Organisations should assess the impact of the new regulations on these roles and familiarise themselves with the updated definition of regulated activity.

The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) has highlighted examples such as assistant sports coaches working under a head coach's supervision, and activity instructors delivering sessions to visiting school groups, as roles that may now fall within regulated activity.

Where necessary, clubs and organisations should determine whether staff or volunteers now require a higher level of background check as part of their safer recruitment processes.

It is also important to review and update safeguarding and recruitment procedures, ensuring any changes are clearly communicated to staff and volunteers.

Safer Adults, Safer Sport

Effective safeguarding helps create environments where children feel safe, supported and able to enjoy positive sporting experiences.

These changes will support organisations in applying more consistent safeguarding standards while strengthening their ability to prevent individuals who are barred from working with children from taking on unsuitable roles.

Read the full story from NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit.

Together, we can help ensure sport remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone. #SafeInSport

Image credit: Sport England