The European Olympic Academies (EOA) recently launched BESST 2.0 – Building European Safe Sport Together, an ambitious Erasmus+ project co-funded by the European Union. This project builds on the extensive research and developed tools and frameworks of the predecessor project, BESST 1.0, and aims to enhance safeguarding measures in European sports, ensuring a safer and more inclusive environment for athletes, coaches, sports organisations and all involved stakeholders. By integrating innovative Virtual Reality (VR) training and fostering strong partnerships, BESST 2.0 seeks to address key gaps in safeguarding implementation.
Addressing a Critical Gap in Safeguarding Implementation
The launch of BESST 2.0 is a response to the persistent challenges in translating safeguarding policies into practice. Research and feedback from BESST 1.0 revealed that many sports organisations across Europe struggle with knowledge transfer, implementation strategies, and cultural shifts. BESST 2.0 aims to bridge this gap by introducing interactive training methods and collaborative learning tools.
A Collaborative Effort with Leading Institutions
A diverse and experienced network of partners drives the promising concept of BESST 2.0. With expertise spanning psychology, education, and sports governance, to name but a few, the project consortium will collaborate to develop practical safeguarding solutions tailored to the needs of the diverse sports community. The project brings together organisations from across Europe, including:
Introducing VR as a Key Educational Tool
A standout feature of BESST 2.0 is the incorporation of Virtual Reality (VR) as a practical tool for behavioural change in safeguarding education. Traditional safeguarding training often remains theoretical and lacks real-world application. The VR-based approach will enable participants to engage in immersive, scenario-based training, enhancing their ability to identify, prevent, and respond to safeguarding concerns.
Join the Movement for Safer Sport
BESST 2.0 is not just a project—it’s a movement towards a cultural shift in European sport. Whether you are an athlete, coach, sports administrator, or simply passionate about safe sports, there are many ways to engage with BESST and BESST 2.0:
- Follow the project’s progress on the official BESST Website
- Join the conversation on social media using #SafeSportSunday or the prepared Social Media Cards
- Stay informed about upcoming workshops and training opportunities
- Use and share the available toolkits, which are invaluable for anyone looking to learn or teach safeguarding, promote its importance, or develop and enhance policies!
Looking Ahead
The launch of BESST 2.0 marks a significant step in fostering a safer, more inclusive sports environment across Europe. With its strong foundation in research, collaboration, and innovation, this project aims to create lasting change in how safeguarding is perceived and implemented in the European sporting environment.
Let’s work together to make sport a safe and empowering space for all!
