Sports provide energy, enjoyment, and connect people. A safe and pleasant environment is an important starting point. From August 2026, all sports providers in Eindhoven must take measures to prevent unwanted or inappropriate behavior. Only then can they apply for subsidies, rent sports facilities, or use services from the Municipality of Eindhoven. They must comply with the 4 V’s of Safety.

Alderman Remco van Dooren (Sports): We find it important that everyone can play sports freely, with pleasure, and in a safe environment. Without inappropriate behavior. Therefore, every Eindhoven sports club or provider must meet basic requirements for a socially safe environment. This states what we consider desirable behavior and ensures we can talk about unwanted behavior. We also work with good volunteers and coaches are well trained.

Working together for a safe sports climate

The Municipality of Eindhoven helps sports providers develop policies around (preventing) inappropriate behavior, inclusion, and diversity. It is based on the four V’s for Safety. These basic requirements for social safety are nationally agreed upon by NOC*NSF, the sports federations, the Association of Sports and Municipalities (VSG), and municipalities. 

The four V’s are:

  • Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
    Permanent trainers/coaches aged 18 or older, working with youth up to 17 years or other vulnerable groups, must have a VOG.
  • Established code of conduct
    The club sets rules of conduct and ensures members and supporters see them.
  • Confidential counselor
    Every club has a confidential counselor and makes this known to its members.
  • Professionally trained trainers/coaches
    Permanent trainers/coaches follow courses and/or e-learnings on social safety, integrity, and pedagogy.
     

The four V’s in Eindhoven

Currently, 11 clubs and sports providers in Eindhoven meet all four V’s. To make this clear to members and visitors, they receive a sticker. They can place this on their building and also use it digitally.

Many other clubs in Eindhoven are making good progress. The Municipality of Eindhoven helps them with information, training, and experiences from other clubs. There is also a (limited) service offering from Eindhoven Sport for enterprising sports and exercise providers. More information can be found on the Platform for Enterprising Sports Providers (POS). 

With this joint effort, we ensure that sports are not only fun but also socially safe.