Sport NI wholeheartedly supports comments made by the First and Deputy First Ministers on the horrific rates of violence against women and girls in Northern Ireland.
Rebecca Hope, Interim Director of Sport at Sport NI said: “The increasing rates of violence against women and girls are truly shocking. All women and girls have the right to feel safe and supported at home, in the workplace and in sport.
“Over the past year our Be Seen, Be Heard, Belong campaign has been championing women in sport and highlighting the many incredible women and girls who have overcome adversity to excel in their sports.
“Sport has a responsibility to do more to protect women and girls. Sport should be a safe place for everyone, but we know many women and girls have experienced misogyny and abuse within their sports clubs.
“Sports Governing Bodies and clubs have a key role to play in ending violence against women and girls; challenging mindsets and behaviours and providing a safe space. We have supported the sector with Domestic Abuse in Sport awareness training with Women’s Aid and our new Adult Safeguarding Service in partnership with Volunteer Now is providing vital advice and support.
“We all need to do more to ensure that sport is a safe and welcoming place for women and girls.” #BeSeenBeHeardBelong