The Northern Ireland Powerlifting Federation (NIPF) is deeply shocked and saddened by the revelations this week within our sport. The safety and well-being of all individuals involved in powerlifting, especially our athletes, coaches, members, and volunteers, is of paramount importance to us.
The NIPF has a zero tolerance approach to abuse, from verbal abuse and mistreatment of others, up to the most serious and sexual of crimes.
Many will have wanted the NIPF to speak out on this issue before now. Given the sensitivity in this matter, we have been engaging closely with British Powerlifting and working in the background to ensure that all best practice was followed and, more importantly, how best to support our community and anyone affected.
While this incident involves an individual who has not been a member of the NIPF for a number of months, and will not be moving forward, we understand the impact it may have on our community, and are offering support to anyone who has been affected by this situation. Should you wish to, please contact our Safeguarding Officer, Josh Bell, on safeguarding@nipowerlifting.co.uk for more information.
Whilst the reports of abuse happened outside the NIPF, regardless, we are reviewing our policies and practices to ensure that they continue to reflect the highest standards of integrity and accountability. Whilst we already carry out enhanced level Access NI checks on our Committee members and National Coaches, we will also be accelerating our plans to extend these checks to our referees and to have all officials undergo safeguarding training.
Should any coaches, clubs or gyms wish to discuss how they can better support and protect their members, the Federation is happy to provide advice and guidance.
We want to emphasise again that the NIPF stands against abuse and will take a zero tolerance approach against any credible report. We, as a community, will always strive to support, protect and lift each other up, both on and off the platform.