UK Athletics has introduced a number of updates to its Safeguarding Regulations and Disciplinary Rules, aimed at improving the speed, clarity and proportionality of its case management processes.

The changes follow an independent safeguarding review and are designed to help lower-level concerns be addressed more efficiently by the Case Management Group (CMG), without the need for full panel hearings in cases where this is not necessary. The intention is to ensure a quicker, fairer outcome for everyone involved — particularly complainants and respondents — and to reduce the disruption and uncertainty that can result from lengthy processes.

Key improvements include:

• Clearer case types – Concerns are now more clearly defined as either Level One (lower-level) or Level Two (more serious), with clear criteria for how each should be handled.
• Faster outcomes for low risk cases – The CMG can now resolve Level One cases even if the respondent doesn’t agree with the proposed action. There is still an option to appeal if needed.
• Tighter appeals process – New steps have been introduced to ensure appeals are submitted correctly and on time, including a requirement for a small deposit to discourage incomplete or frivolous appeals.
• More flexibility in staff responsibilities – Certain tasks, such as notifying someone of an order, can now be carried out by trained UKA staff rather than solely by the Lead Safeguarding Officer.
• Jurisdiction confirmed – UKA has clarified that safeguarding processes still apply to licensed coaches and officials even if their licence has expired.
• Link to disciplinary action – In some cases, safeguarding concerns may also be addressed under UKA’s Disciplinary Rules where appropriate.

“These are sensible and practical improvements that will make the system more responsive,” said Danny Williams, Head of Safeguarding at UKA. “By allowing us to deal with level one or low-risk cases more quickly and proportionately, we can reduce the stress and delay that often affects both complainants and respondents. It also means our safeguarding panels can focus their attention where it’s most needed — on more serious and complex matters.”

Tom Solesbury, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel at UKA, added: “We’ve worked hard to ensure the updates are both legally robust and operationally effective. The changes provide greater clarity around jurisdiction, decision-making and the role of the CMG, helping to prevent unnecessary escalation while maintaining the right of appeal. It’s a more agile and balanced framework that reflects the real-world challenges of safeguarding in sport.”

The updated Safeguarding Regulations and Disciplinary Rules are in effect from and apply across UK Athletics and the Home Country Athletics Federations. Please see the links below:

New UKA Disciplinary Rules and Procedures August 2025

New UKA Safeguarding Regulations August 2025