Listening Culture

Creating a Listening Culture in Your Cricket Club

At Suffolk Cricket, we believe cricket is more than just a game—it’s a community. That’s why we’re committed to supporting clubs to create a listening culture where every voice matters, and everyone feels comfortable speaking up. Whether you’re a player, coach, parent, volunteer, or supporter, your feedback is essential in helping clubs grow, improve, and make sure that
cricket clubs are a positive place for all.

What Do We Mean by a ‘Listening Culture’?

A listening culture is one where people feel safe, supported, and encouraged to share their ideas, concerns, and experiences. It’s about creating an open environment where feedback isn’t just welcomed—it’s actively sought out and acted upon.
When clubs promote everyday conversations about how things are going—on and off the field—it becomes much easier for someone to raise a more serious concern if and when they need to. If people see that the club listens and responds, they’re more likely to trust that their voice matters.

Why It Matters

● Improves the club experience for everyone – players, parents, coaches, and non- playing members alike
● Helps us spot and fix issues early, before they become bigger problems
● Encourages young people to feel more confident and heard, helping them grow on and off the pitch
● Builds trust and strengthens our community spirit

Ideas on how to create a Listening Culture

Here are some suggestions and practical steps you can put in place to make feedback a normal part of club life:

● Feedback Boxes & QR Codes: Physical feedback boxes around clubs, as well as QR codes you can scan to submit thoughts anonymously online—quick, easy, and accessible to everyone.
● Visible Action from Feedback: When feedback leads to changes, make sure everyone hear about it. Whether it’s a new piece of equipment, changes to training schedules, or adjustments to how events are run— show how their input has shaped decisions.
● Player Forums & Junior Committees: These provide a space for players—especially younger ones—to share ideas and influence what happens at the club. It’s about empowering our members to take ownership and speak up.
● Junior-Led Social Events: Give juniors the chance to plan and organise events, helping them feel involved and valued while building leadership skills and social confidence.
● Open Conversations: Coaches and team managers are encouraged to check in with players regularly—not just about performance, but about how they’re feeling at the club.

A listening culture doesn’t happen overnight—and it’s not just up to one person. It’s something we all help build by:

● Being open to feedback
● Respecting different views
● Listening without judgement
● Speaking up when something doesn’t feel right

Suffolk Cricket are proud to be working with clubs across the county so we move towards a culture where everyone feels part of something meaningful—and where every voice is heard.

If you would like any additional support for your club then please reach out to Lizzie, County Safeguarding Officer, using the contact details below:

Email: safeguarding@suffolkcricket.org
Call: 07885 618 578