Sport Welfare Officer (SWO) Network
Since 2024, the SWO Network has supported over 5,000 clubs across Active Partnerships to build safer, more inclusive, and welcoming environments for all participants. Funded by Sport England and National Lottery, the network exists to provide every sports club access to free support.
Local Support You Can Rely On
At Living Better, Our Sport Welfare Officers Amanda Freeman and Joanne Howling provide hands-on, tailored support to clubs.
This includes:
- Practical safeguarding and welfare advice
- Access to training and resources
- Ongoing development opportunities
Together with key partners, we are helping to shape a joined-up local approach to improving experiences for children, young people, and adults in sport.
Amanda Freeman
Safeguarding and Welfare Manager
Amanda is Living Better’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and leads the organisation’s safeguarding and welfare function. She is responsible for overseeing safeguarding policy, practice, training, and partnership working. She acts as the lead point of contact for safeguarding concerns and advice. Amanda also provides management and oversight of the wider safeguarding team.
To contact Amanda directly, please fill out the fields below.
Joanne Howling
Safeguarding and Welfare Officer
Joanne supports the development of safe, inclusive and postivite physical activity environments through our Sport Welfare Officer (SWO) Network . Funded through Sport England, her role supports clubs, organisations, and activity providers to promote good safeguarding practice and strengthen welfare arrangements across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.
To contact Joanne directly, please fill out the fields below.
Training that meets your club's needs
We work with trusted external providers to delivers a wide range of training and webinars, we work hard to ensure all training is relevant, practical and impactful.
Key topics include:
- Safeguarding children and adults
- Active Bystander
- Creating a listening culture
- Neurodiversity in sport
- Recognising and responding to early welfare concerns
- Working effectively with parents
- Eating disorders in sport
- Trauma-sensitive practice
- Bullying vs Banter
Looking to book a bespoke session?
No problem! Email us at safeguarding@living-better.org.uk with your topic and we can tailor your session to meet the needs of you club or community.
Staying Connected With Sport Welfare Officers
Join the local SWO Spond group to hear about upcoming training, share experiences, and connect with other clubs
Why sign up?
- Access a central hub of information and support
- Strengthen your SWO offer
- Be part of a wider network focused on safer sport
- Promote the network and share your experiences, offers, and celebrate successes
Living Better safeguarding resources
Living Better Safeguarding Policies
Useful Contacts
Recommended online training for supporting activity sessions
Partner with Living Better
Join us in transforming lives through the power of movement. With your support, we can inspire and empower communities across the county – creating brighter futures and opening doors to opportunities that last a lifetime.
Partner with Living Better today and become a driving force behind bringing life‑changing programmes to even more communities who need our support.