Sport NI has noted the release of the Interim Whyte Review, a commissioned investigation into allegations of mistreatment within Gymnastics, by Anne Whyte QC. We now await the full Review to be completed. The report may be accessed at this link: The Whyte Review: the review into complaints of mistreatment in gymnastics | UK Sport
Sport NI is also aware of the publication last week of the Sheldon Report, which sets out sexual abuse in football of many boys at a number of football clubs over several decades. The reports can be accessed at this link: Clive Sheldon QC’s independent report into allegations of non-recent child sexual abuse in football (thefa.com)
Sport NI CEO stated “It is vital that all young people can take part in the sports they love without the fear of any form of harm. Both reports create a disturbing picture of the experience of some young athletes across the UK. Sport NI is fully committed to ensuring everyone’s experience of sport is a positive one within a safe and inclusive environment. The Whyte Review must leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of learning and giving athletes a voice as British Gymnastics can itself take on board what it needs to do to safeguard its athletes.”
The CEO continued “The Sheldon report is a reminder of the vulnerability of children, where the balance of power is so dangerously skewed, leaving young athletes again without a voice. Effective safeguards, education programmes for our children and young people on their rights and a duty of care of their sports is required to protect their safety and wellbeing.”
There is much for all sports to learn from both reports. Sport will continue to ensure that safeguarding requirements for children, young people and vulnerable adults are understood and effectively implemented across the sector”.
The NSPCC Helpline is open to anyone who would like to report a concern or seek advice about a child’s welfare. Childline is also online or on the phone for any young person to directly reach out for support.