Emotional Safety

Emotional Safety

What Is It?

Helps you feel free to express yourself without judgement.

Emotional safety is about creating spaces where people can express themselves freely without fear of judgment, ridicule, or harm. When emotional safety is prioritized, participants can focus on enjoying their activities and building confidence.

Promoting emotional safety results in people feeling supported, respected, and valued in sport and recreation.

Emotional Safety is created when we:

  • Make everyone feel comfortable sharing emotions, thoughts, and concerns without fear of being dismissed or punished
  • Treat everyone with respect and fairness, regardless of background, identity, or skill level
  • Actively listen and respond with care
  • Recognize and addresse behaviours like teasing, exclusion, or ridicule that can harm emotional well-being
  • Promote kindness, understanding, and encouragement in interactions

Emotional Safety — Myth vs Fact

Myth

Making fun of people or shouting at them motivates them to do better.

Fact

People often quit sport because of the way they are treated. When you feel emotionally safe and healthy, you will be more likely to participate and improve your skills.

Learn more about each aspect of safety:

Safe Participation

Learn More

Cultural Safety

Learn More

Physical Safety

Learn More

Psychological Safety

Learn More

Help foster emotionally safe environments.

Learn how to be a supportive bystander.