Wiltshire Cricket's Listening to Children guidance and launch of Post Game Conversations resource
Following its launch in 2023, Wiltshire Cricket will again be encouraging participants on our Talent Pathway programme to submit anonymised feedback on their talent pathway experiences. Additionally, to support players, coaches and parents with the emotive conversations around competitive sport, we are delighted to launch our new Post Game Conversations resource.
The Wiltshire Cricket Listening to Children Policy
The biggest driver of activity for young people is enjoyment. We need to listen more to children and young people and involve them in decision making to create the type of experiences they want. In places where children’s perspectives are valued and listened to, a more effective safeguarding culture is embedded. A culture of listening to children shapes cricketing activities and helps create opportunities that are more attractive and accessible. A listening culture gives confidence to children and young people to speak out when they may have a concern or are concerned about someone else. By embedding listening to children within Wiltshire Cricket, we develop and support young people to speak out about unsafe situations.
In December 2023, Wiltshire Cricket launched its new Listening to Children guidance. This document outlines why it is important that we listen to the views of children and provide an environment in which they feel comfortable and safe in speaking out. Complementing the guidance is an anonymous feedback form that can be accessed here:
Wiltshire Cricket Listening to Children Anonymised Feedback Form
Alternatively, children can use this QR code to access the form:
Over the past 12 months, since the launch of the anonymous form, Wiltshire Cricket has been grateful to receive several responses to the form; all of which have been valued and insightful. The following image summarises the most common words used to describe children’s experiences within a pathway environment:
We would welcome even more feedback from children during 2024-2025 so please do pass on information about this opportunity.
Post Game Conversations
As a further support resource for parents with children involved with junior cricket, we are really pleased to launch a new resource for this year; our Post Game Conversations document for parents.
Competitive Sport can be an emotional experience for children, parents and coaches. Feedback from parents greatly influences how a child perceives their ability, enjoys their sport, and feels motivated to continue participating. In an environment that can be emotionally charged, ensuring well-timed and delivered feedback is crucial.
For more information on either our Listening to Children guidance or our Post Game conversations resource, please contact either Iestyn Lewis or Pete Sykes:
