Saving Sportspersons: UK announce concussion guidelines for grassroots players

The Community News/London

The British government on Friday announced first ever concussion guidelines to save sportspersons from its after-effects in grassroots sports.

The UK government has published the concussion guidelines to help players, coaches and parents to identify, manage and prevent after-effects.

The guidelines have been prepared by medical professionals, academicians and sports governing bodies and it is targeted at sportspersons of all ages.

‘If in doubt, sit them out’ is the key advice to players and they shouldn’t return to play within 24 hours of suffering the concussion.

The guidelines are built on already introduced guidance in Scotland.

It calls for recognising signs, better diagnosis and gradual return to sports to reduce risks of slow recovery and lessen the chances of further injuries and long term issues.

Commenting on the development, UK Sports Minister Stuart Andrew said, “Sport keeps us healthy and active but it is not without risk and major injuries to the head can and do happen.

“Research has shown the importance of fast and effective tailored treatment and we are issuing expert guidance to help people spot and treat head injuries.

“Whether used in a local leisure centre during a swimming lesson or on a village green during a cricket match, the guidance will make a real difference to people’s lives.”

The move meets a commitment set out in the Government’s Action Plan on Concussion in 2021 to introduce a national approach to prevent concussion and brain injury in sport.”

Professor Willie Stewart, Glasgow University, said, “The release of these guidelines represents a world-leading landmark in sports concussion management.