Bac And Nspcc Launch Helpline For Athletes Reporting Abuse
The British Athletes Commission (BAC) and the NSPCC have partnered to launch a helpline to support athletes raising concerns of abuse in British Gymnastics.
Staffed by trained NSPCC counsellors, the helpline aims to provide support to current and retired gymnasts who speak out about concerns of bullying and abuse in the sport, and offering guidance for children, young people and anyone involved with gymnastics who has safeguarding concerns.
The helpline aims to provide a point of contact for current and former elite competitors, community-level athletes and parents to lodge concerns, regardless of whether they are funded athletes, former funded athletes, community-level athletes or parents.
It will also aim to provide a ‘safe place for any further whistleblowing and offer athletes the opportunity to input into the Independent Review into the claims being made by athletes, which is now being carried out by UK Sport and Sport England.
“We applaud the bravery and courage of those who have spoken up and shared their experiences,” said Sam Little, Head of Athlete Support, BAC.
“Abuse has absolutely no place in modern-day sport, and that’s why, with the launch of the helpline today, we are unveiling what is just the first step in our ambitious package of athlete support measures.
“We want to provide a safe place for athletes and others to come forward and seek support and advice. We recognise how difficult it is to speak out and we know some are fearful to do so.
Anyone who has experienced or is experiencing abuse in gymnastics, or who has concerns about the welfare of any gymnast should call this NSPCC helpline – by doing so, you are helping make sport a safer, more welcoming place for the athletes of tomorrow.”
Peter Wanless, CEO, The NSPCC, said: “The reports emerging from gymnastics in recent weeks have been extremely disturbing – so, with the BAC, we’ve launched this dedicated helpline as it is absolutely vital that anyone who has suffered abuse has the opportunity to speak out and get the help they need.
“We would also urge anyone involved in gymnastics who has safeguarding concerns to contact the helpline in the knowledge that they will be listened to. We are grateful to the BAC for their support and commitment in setting up this important service.”
The dedicated NSPCC Helpline is the first component of a newly-established Athlete Support Unit being set up by the BAC, following the recent series of allegations. The Unit will offer administrative and welfare support to athletes and families affected by the allegations of abuse, with further details to be announced in the coming weeks.
