Singapore Gymnastics (SG) general manager Karen Norden said that a key standard operating procedure at the association is that it does not allow its coaches to be in the gym on a one-on-one basis with athletes.

A similar practice is adopted at Swimfast Aquatic Club, founded by former national swimmer David Lim. At least one coordinator is usually present at each of the club’s training sessions (60 per week), with newer coaches receiving guidance from more senior coaches in their first six months.

When it comes to doctors, you and your child have the right to ask a female nurse to be present in the examination room as well. Doing so makes the possibility of a sexual attack much less likely, and your child will also have a witness if things go wrong.

Singapore Table Tennis Association (STTA) president Ellen Lee says that if individual training sessions are conducted at the STTA, its high-performance managers and staff must be notified. “There has to be accountability in terms of a proper roster as to who is using what and at which time,” she said. “Our tables are all in public areas as well, in full view of everyone.”

In sailing, said Singapore Sailing president Ben Tan, debriefs are held in groups and in a suitable location. “If we’re sending any athletes on tour, we normally try to send a judge so there are two officials. In the time that I’ve been with Singapore Gymnastics, we’ve never just sent a coach and an athlete,” said Ms Norden, who joined SG in June after 11 years at Gymnastics Australia.

For doctor’s appointments, doctors must make clear how and when they will touch your child during any physical exam. Appropriate gowns and private undressing areas and should be provided.

Kids should be taught the general guideline that no one, not even their caregivers or male family members, should be allowed to touch the areas usually covered by their underwear, . This is known as the “underwear rule”. Should this happen, and if they feel uncomfortable, they must know how to immediately voice their discomfort and leave the situation. Ask them to report it to you, saying you will help them handle the situation.

You may have taken precautions, but sexual attacks can still happen, so it’s important to know the signs. Daniel Koh, psychologist at Insights Mind Centre says, “Do note though that just because you see a warning sign, it doesn’t automatically mean a child is being abused.” Daniel says the signs of abuse aren’t always obvious, and learning the warning signs of abuse could be life-saving…

Be alert if the child seems to shrink away from or seem threatened by physical contact, shows regressive behaviours like thumb sucking, changes in hygiene routines such as refusing to bathe or bathing excessively, experiences sleep disturbances or has nightmares. Daniel adds that some may also seem extremely tired, not at all interested in anything and not be able to relate to others.

Using words or phrases that are “too adult” for their age, unexplained silence, or suddenly being less talkative may be some warning signs you should look into. Daniel further explains that the child might seem to be suddenly interested in sex, converse in a sexual manner or avoid a specific gender altogether.

Daniel suggested that the adult should look for some unexplained bruising or swelling near the genital area, blood on sheets or undergarments, or broken bones. The child may also show signs of depression and suicidal tendencies.

If you suspect a child is being abused, it would be best to report it to the authorities who can provide protection and remove the child from the abuser. You can approach the Police, child protection officers in MSF or to make a report at the hospital when seeking medical help.

You can approach the Child Protective Service at Rehabilitation and Protection Group, located at 512 Thomson Road #10-00, MSF Building, Singapore 298136. You can also call them at 63548260 / 1800-7770000 or email them at msf_email@msf.gov.sg.

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