Government launches safety and wellbeing in sport review

An independent review which focuses on the welfare and safety of participants in grassroots and elite sport has commenced, with experts and members of the public called to give evidence.

First referenced in the government’s Sporting Future sport strategy, the Duty of Care Review will be led by Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, who will consider submissions as part of an eight-strong working group.

The review will be broken down into grassroots sport and elite sport, but looking at three themes across both disciplines: supporting participants; concussion and management of catastrophic sporting events; plus equality and diversity.

For grassroots sport, recommendations may be made around education and support, prevention and management of medical issues and consideration of the needs of women, ethnic minorities, LGBT individuals and the disabled.

Recommendations for supporting elite athletes may include education around anti-doping, mental health support, support after leaving talent pathways and support for those with alcohol, gambling, drug or eating disorders.

The independent working group – which includes chair of British Rowing Annamarie Phelps; former basketball player John Amaechi; Baroness Sue Campbell; Paul Farmer, chief executive of mental health charity Mind; director of child protection in Sport Unit Anne Tiivas; former Premier League footballer Jason Roberts; former rugby player Brian Moore – will meet three times, agreeing the final report on the third occasion.

Grey-Thompson said the review was a “perfect opportunity for people to have their say on what more we can do to improve safety and wellbeing in sport”.

“Sport is an amazing force for social good and we want to ensure that everyone at all levels – from grassroots to elite – can participate in a safe environment,” added the Paralympic champion.

“This independent panel will enable the government and everyone involved in sport to develop a comprehensive plan as to how we can improve safety in sport,” added acting minister for sport David Evennett.

To contribute to review or to read the full report click here.