Policies and Governance

WDSF's safeguarding framework sets out how harassment, abuse and other safeguarding concerns are prevented and addressed within DanceSport.

It consists of two complementary documents:

• The WDSF Safeguarding Policy, which explains WDSF's commitments, scope, definitions and responsibilities.
• The WDSF Safeguarding Procedures, which explain how concerns are assessed, referred and managed.

Together, these documents provide the basis for safeguarding across WDSF events and DanceSport disciplines. They should be read alongside applicable national laws and the safeguarding requirements of relevant National Member Bodies.

WDSF Safeguarding Policy — Part 1

The WDSF Safeguarding Policy sets out WDSF's safeguarding commitments, scope, definitions and responsibilities.

It explains:

• who and what are covered by the Policy;
• the forms of harassment, abuse and other harmful behaviour addressed;
• the responsibilities of WDSF and persons involved in WDSF activities;
• how safeguarding responsibilities may be shared with National Member Bodies;
• the role of the WDSF Presidium and Safeguarding Unit;
• the standards expected across WDSF events and DanceSport disciplines.

The Policy applies broadly across WDSF activities to athletes, coaches, adjudicators and judges, officials, medical personnel and other accredited participants.

View the WDSF Safeguarding Policy

WDSF Safeguarding Procedures — Part 2

The WDSF Safeguarding Procedures explain how the principles established by the Policy are applied when a safeguarding concern is raised.

They address:

• receiving and assessing safeguarding concerns;
• identifying immediate protection needs;
• determining the appropriate jurisdiction and response pathway;
• referral to National Member Bodies, relevant WDSF bodies, law-enforcement agencies, child-protection authorities or other competent organisations;
• investigations where appropriate;
• possible protective, corrective or disciplinary measures;
• safeguarding requirements when working with children;
• information management and record retention;
• support for affected persons.

The Procedures also contain practical requirements relating to professional boundaries, communication, physical contact, supervision, travel and accommodation involving children.

View the WDSF Safeguarding Procedures

Roles and responsibilities

Safeguarding is a shared responsibility across WDSF and the wider DanceSport community.

WDSF Presidium

The WDSF Presidium is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Safeguarding Policy, supporting the continued development of WDSF's safeguarding framework and taking appropriate action within its authority.

WDSF Safeguarding Unit

The WDSF Safeguarding Unit supports the development and implementation of WDSF safeguarding policies, procedures and practices.

Its functions include:

• serving as a safeguarding point of contact for participants in DanceSport;
• receiving and responding to safeguarding concerns;
• supporting appropriate assessment and referral;
• contributing to safeguarding education and awareness;
• advising on safeguarding governance within WDSF;
• supporting National Member Bodies and organisers in strengthening safeguarding arrangements.

The Safeguarding Unit may refer a matter to the appropriate National Member Body, WDSF body or external authority according to jurisdiction, applicable law and the circumstances of the concern.

WDSF Safeguarding Officer

The WDSF Safeguarding Officer supports the implementation of the safeguarding framework, serves as a point of contact for safeguarding concerns, advises on appropriate safeguarding pathways and coordinates action within the scope of the role.

WDSF Safeguarding Representatives

WDSF is developing a network of trained and certified WDSF Safeguarding Representatives to strengthen safeguarding capacity within DanceSport organisations and events.

A WDSF Safeguarding Representative may:

• promote safeguarding awareness;
• provide an accessible initial point of contact;
• recognise and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns;
• refer concerns through the appropriate channels;
• support the implementation of WDSF safeguarding standards within their designated organisation or event.

Safeguarding Representatives do not independently investigate concerns unless they have been formally authorised to do so under the applicable procedures.

Information about the education and certification pathway is available under Education and Resources.

National Member Bodies and event organisers

National Member Bodies and event organisers are expected to maintain appropriate safeguarding arrangements and comply with applicable national law.

Depending on the circumstances and jurisdiction, a concern may be managed by or referred to the relevant National Member Body, event organiser, WDSF body, statutory authority or other competent organisation.

Policy review and updates

The WDSF Safeguarding Policy and Procedures will be reviewed and updated from time to time to reflect developments in safeguarding practice, applicable requirements and the operational needs of DanceSport.

Published on 2 August 2026 (last update on 2 August 2026)