Sport stars help children stay safe

PLAYERS and coaches from across Greater Manchester’s sporting community are backing a new campaign to tackle child sexual exploitation.

Joining forces with police, charities and local leaders, they are taking a stand against child abuse as part of a week of action.

Dubbed ‘It’s not Okay’, today’s campaign launch was taking place at Manchester Velodrome. Players and coaches from Salford Red Devils, Wigan Warriors, FC United and Rochdale Hornets are among those taking part.

Throughout the week, police and partners will raise awareness of child sexual exploitation with players, spectators and coaches within the sporting world.

There will be training sessions and information stalls at leisure centres – and they will also talk to young players about the issue.

Sports clubs will be asked to sign and display an ‘It’s Not Okay’ charter – reinforcing their commitment to tackling the problem and preventing it from happening on their watch.