Physical and psychological integrity in the context of the Protecteur de l’intégrité en loisir et en sport (PILS)
The word “integrity” refers to the respect for and the protection of a person’s physical and psychological welfare. In particular, the objective is to ensure their safety, well-being and development during recreational or sports activities.
A person’s integrity may be harmed in situations where they experience:
  • violence (psychological, physical or sexual)
  • neglect
  • harassment or bullying
  • abuse, discrimination, mistreatment or exploitation
  • any treatment that may compromise their integrity
These situations may take place in different contexts and locations, including:
  • within a practice, training or competition area
  • in the locker rooms, showers, bleachers or dressing rooms, or backstage
  • in a means of transportation or lodging
  • online
In order for a situation of harm to integrity to be handled by the PILS, it must exceed a certain level of seriousness. It must have an impact or consequences that are temporary or permanent.
Other situations do not usually harm the integrity of a person. This means they are not handled by the PILS. This is the case for situations such as the following:
  • decisions to include, exclude or not select a person for a team or activity
  • decisions made by a referee
  • schedules for the use of an area in a sports facility
  • criteria for ranking, awarding scholarships or giving recognition
  • internal governance issues (internal management, electoral processes, resource allocation, etc.)
  • conflicts concerning individuals involved in recreation and sports
However, the PILS can intervene if these situations cause direct harm to a person's integrity in the context of the practice of recreational or sports activities.

If you have any doubts about whether a situation has caused harm to a person's integrity, contact the Protecteur de l’intégrité en loisir et en sport.
Sport’Aide is an independent non-profit organization that aims to provide support, listening, and guidance services to various stakeholders in the world of sports, recreation, and outdoor activities in Quebec (participants; parents, relatives; coaches, instructors, guides, facilitators, sports, recreation, and outdoor organizations, officials, and volunteers) who are victims or witnesses of violence. Its scope of action extends to the entire sports, recreation, and outdoor recreation system, from schools to municipalities and communities, from amateur to elite levels, and across all disciplines.