UK Athletics (UKA) has today published a summary of an independent desktop review of its safeguarding function, conducted by barrister Tim Naylor of QEB Hollis Whiteman. The full report remains confidential due to the sensitive nature of the material involved, but the summary outlines the key observations and recommendations now being taken forward.

The review finds that UKA has established a dedicated and skilled safeguarding operation, working within policies and regulations that are broadly fit for purpose. It also recognised the significant workload pressures common across National Governing Bodies but noted that UKA’s team is operating with professionalism, commitment, and a clear focus on athlete welfare.

It also confirms that the majority of recommendations from the 2020 Quinlan Review have been successfully implemented, shaping the current processes used jointly by UKA and the Home Country Athletics Federations (HCAFs). A small number of historic cases continue to be managed but are being actively addressed.

A core theme highlighted throughout the review was the importance of strong information sharing and collaboration between UKA and the HCAFs. Given the scale and geographic spread of the sport, the reviewer reemphasised the need for aligned systems, regular communication, and clear primacy for UKA’s safeguarding team when managing cases involving children and adults at risk.

To strengthen this framework, the summary sets out several recommendations, including:

• Enhancing information-sharing provisions in the Safeguarding Policy
• Introducing review points for interim suspension orders
• Creating clearer processes for reopening cases
• Establishing joint training forums for safeguarding personnel
• Reviewing intelligence systems across UKA and the HCAFs

UK Athletics’ Head of Safeguarding Danny Williams commented:

“The recommendations in this review will help UKA and our partners focus our resources where they are most effective, ensuring safeguarding remains robust, consistent, and centred on athlete welfare.

“UKA and our home country partners share the same ambition: to work collaboratively to protect young people and adults at risk across the UK.”

The review can be viewed here