The safeguarding team has remained very busy with a high case load volume since the launch of the new safeguarding reporting system (MyConcern) in April. Given the high demands placed on the system we continue to evolve the staffing structure to enable the effective support and case management within this area.

As a result, some additions have been made to and within the team. This includes the addition of Sandra Lamb who is a new Safeguarding Case Officer. Sue Wilson has now taken on the role of National Safeguarding Case Manager that will have oversight of all the cases and handling. Angus Macdonald will continue to lead the team with more of a strategic leadership role that includes overseeing the development of the education programme that is presently being developed.

We have also extended the hours of existing team members to ensure we meet the demands of the sport. This relatively new but hugely experienced team continue to work tirelessly and make significant progress relating to new and existing caseloads, as well as continuing to drive forward the implementation of the Quinlan Review recommendations supported by the relevant representatives across the home countries.

The focus of the team along with the home countries over the months ahead is to prepare for the roll out of the new education and training programme in the spring of 2022 that will support coaches, officials, clubs, athletes and parents/guardians. We will update on these developments over the next couple of months.

We are also delighted to move ahead with the UKA Safeguarding Advisory Panel which is a concept driven out of recent discussions with a number of individuals. This group will provide a support, check and challenge to the safeguarding teams as well as the UKA executive team and board.

The Safeguarding Team at UKA now includes the following staff and roles;

Angus Macdonald (Head of Safeguarding)
Sue Wilson (National Safeguarding Case Manager)
Sam Green (Safeguarding Case Officer)
Anthony Shaw (Safeguarding Case Officer)
Sandra Lamb (Safeguarding Case Officer)
Laura Davies – Welfare Administrator
Lynne Jackson-Fayle – Welfare Administrator

All information on safeguarding can be viewed at: https://www.uka.org.uk/governance/safeguarding_2021/