Landmark new guidance has been published to help identify, manage and prevent concussion affecting players in grassroots sport.
Developed by clinicians, academics and sports governing bodies, If In Doubt, Sit Them Out is the call to action for all players, coaches, parents, schools and sports administrators.
The first UK-wide Concussion Guidelines for Grassroots Sport sets out steps to improve understanding and awareness of the prevention and treatment of concussion in grassroots sport, where trained medical professionals are less likely to be routinely present.
It is targeted at people of all ages, from children through to adults.
The guidance, which builds on that already in place in Scotland, makes clear that no-one should return to sport within 24 hours of a suspected concussion, and recommends that those involved in grassroots sport take the following steps:
- RECOGNISE the signs of concussion;
- REMOVE anyone suspected of being concussed immediately and;
- RETURN safely to daily activity, education/work and, ultimately, sport.
The guidelines include a recommendation to call NHS 111 within 24 hours of a potential concussion, to rest and sleep as much as needed for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid using devices which involve screen time.
In addition, a graduated return to activity such as work, education and sport is advised to reduce the risks of slow recovery, further brain injury and longer-term problems.
Individuals should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than four weeks.
The introduction of the guidance has been welcomed by campaigners, who have long called for urgent action to protect players from the impact of concussion and head injury, which is increasingly being linked to long-term brain health decline and neurodegenerative disease.
Sir Chris Bryant MP, Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), and the driving force behind the implementation of the impending Government’s ABI Strategy, said: “At long last we’re beginning to take this issue seriously.
“Sport is good for you but a brain injury can completely change your life. I hope every sporting organisation will take these new protocols to heart.”
UKABIF executive director Chloe Hayward added: “We welcome this guidance for grassroots sports clubs as it is very much needed to improve understanding and awareness of concussion.
“It is positive to see the Government taking the first step towards addressing the concerns raised in the DCMS Select Committee Inquiry into concussion in sport in July 2021.”
