Trust Person in Our Club
Every sports club in The Netherlands should have a trust person. A trust person is a neutral and approachable contact for all members of our club. They listen, support and help find solutions when something feels unfair, uncomfortable or burdensome. This can include conflicts in the team, inappropriate behaviour, bullying, discrimination, boundary violations or personal concerns that affect your participation in the club.
The role exists to ensure that no one is left alone with worries and that problems are addressed early and respectfully. The trust person works independently of the board and coaches, takes every concern seriously and treats all conversations with strict confidentiality, as far as legal and safety obligations allow. Together with you, they clarify the situation, discuss options and, if you wish, accompany further steps.
Members can turn to the trust person if they are unsure who to talk to, if they want a protected space to sort out their thoughts, or if they fear negative consequences when addressing an issue openly. The goal is always to strengthen well-being, mutual respect and constructive cooperation within the club, so that everyone can feel safe, valued and welcome.
General Tasks of a Trust Person
- Confidential contact: Offering a safe, discreet space where members can talk about personal, social or club-related issues without fear of consequences.
- Listening and support: Taking concerns seriously, listening actively and providing emotional support in difficult situations.
- Conflict mediation: Helping to clarify misunderstandings and mediate between members, teams or committees to find fair and constructive solutions.
- Advice and guidance: Informing members about possible steps, internal procedures and external support services, without making decisions for them.
- Handling complaints: Receiving and documenting complaints about inappropriate behaviour, bullying, discrimination or harassment and, with consent, forwarding them to the appropriate bodies.
- Prevention and awareness: Promoting a respectful club culture, supporting codes of conduct and, where appropriate, helping to organise information sessions or guidelines.
- Neutrality and independence: Acting impartially, not taking sides in internal power structures and always focusing on the well-being and protection of members.
- Cooperation with the board: Working with the association's leadership on structural improvements, while maintaining confidentiality about individual cases.
Through these tasks, the trust person strengthens a culture of respect, safety and openness within the association and contributes to long-term member satisfaction and retention.
We Are Here For You
If something is bothering you, big or small, you never have to carry it alone. Our trust person is available for confidential conversations about any concern, question, or uneasy feeling you may have. No issue is too minor, and you will not face any negative consequences for reaching out and speaking openly.
By talking early, many misunderstandings and conflicts can be eased or resolved before they grow and become harder to handle. You deserve a safe, respectful space where you are heard and taken seriously. Your well-being matters, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Reach out today – we are ready to listen.
Contact the trust person now.