In light of a recent historic case review by UK Athletics, Norman Gardiner’s coaching licence was permanently revoked (UK ATHLETICS LICENSING DECISIONS AND CASE OUTCOMES | UK Athletics).
Scottish Athletics further withdrew his Honorary Life Membership status (Norman Gardiner: HLM status revoked after UK panel decision – Scottish Athletics). This decision was published on our website.
We acknowledge that when allegations were first made against Norman Gardiner in 2013, no suitable investigation or appropriate risk assessment was undertaken by the sport. We apologise to the athletes involved. To wait 12 years for an appropriate conclusion is not acceptable and we apologise for any impact or consequences this has had for them.
Scottish Athletics would like to thank the athletes that came forward in this case for their courage in doing so, both in 2013 and during the UK Athletics investigation in 2023-24.
Athletics should first and foremost be a safe, enjoyable and open environment for all participants. There must be confidence in the raising of concerns where circumstances require and support for those involved.
We are confident that the above failings could not happen today, partly thanks to affected athletes who have campaigned to promote change in safeguarding protocol.
As noted by Scottish Athletics in 2020, the recommendations of former Scottish pole vaulter Anna Gordon formed part of Scottish Athletics feedback to UK Athletics during a review of safeguarding procedures by Christopher Quinlan KC.
Since the publication of the Quinlan Review in 2020, significant changes have taken place with UK Athletics becoming the overarching safeguarding body for athletics in the UK and the strengthening of regulations, policies, case management and support throughout all of the UK.
All children and young people have the right to be cared for, protected from harm and abuse, and to participate in a sporting environment which is safe, and in which their rights are respected, and their needs met. Children and young people should get the help they need, when they need it, and their safety is paramount.
Any safeguarding concerns can be raised by completing the online safeguarding reporting form at the following link:
SUBMIT A SAFEGUARDING CONCERN | UK Athletics
Or by contacting UK Athletics or Scottish Athletics Welfare team.
+++
Tags:
Norman Gardiner, Welfare
