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UK elite sport sexual misconduct survey

SkySports | News •
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A new survey from the Women's Sport Collective reveals that 88% of women working in UK elite sport have experienced some form of sexual misconduct over the last five years. The study, conducted with author Lindsey Simpson, anonymously surveyed 260 women across 40 sports, finding that 87% faced harassment and 40% experienced assault. Two per cent reported rape.

The findings paint a stark picture of a systemic problem, with 93% of respondents identifying the perpetrator as male. Critically, less than half of participants believe governing bodies or employers are adequately addressing the issue, with only 38% expressing positive sentiments about institutional responses. The research spans roles from athletes to administration and medicine.

Author Lindsey Simpson stated the goal was to map the prevalence of misconduct to drive necessary change. She emphasized the need to dismantle failing systems and cultures, calling on all people to engage in the work. The report underscores the widespread toll of these behaviours on society and the urgent need for accountability within sports institutions.