The LTA commissions independent safeguarding investigation
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In December, a complaint was made to the LTA about the way in which a 2004 sexual assault allegation against a coach was handled by the then Executive Committee of Hertfordshire County LTA.
As soon as we received the complaint, we undertook a comprehensive internal review of the original 2004 case. We have also now commissioned a further independent investigation which is being carried out as swiftly as possible. The outcome of that investigation will be made public when it concludes.
LTA President, Martin Corrie, was a member of Hertfordshire County LTA’s Executive Committee in 2004 and, as such, he has chosen to temporarily step aside from the duties of his role while the independent investigation is on-going.
Martin Corrie, said today, “This case concerns a coach who worked at Hertfordshire County LTA when I was a member of the Executive Committee and who was investigated and sanctioned by the LTA Disciplinary Committee at the time. As we are all aware, upholding the highest standards in dealing with safeguarding matters is important to the whole of British Tennis. Therefore, in agreement with the Board of the LTA, I believe it is right for me to step aside from my Presidency during the course of this investigation. I would not wish my presence in this significant public role to become a distraction from the very good work the LTA is currently doing in the safeguarding arena.”
Chairman David Gregson said: ‘’ It’s essential that we move quickly as an organisation if or when a safeguarding issue is raised. The LTA has robust governance processes in place today to ensure that impartial investigations are undertaken into all such cases.’’
LTA Chief Executive, Scott Lloyd, said “I want to emphasise that nothing is more important to us at the LTA than the safety and security of the children and young people who play tennis in Britain. I am personally committed to creating an environment where effective, consistent and timely safeguarding decisions can be made. The implementation of a comprehensive new action plan is well underway which I believe will help put British Tennis at the forefront of safeguarding in sport.”
If you have a safeguarding concern that you wish to report, please contact the LTA’s Safeguarding Team via safeguarding@lta.org.uk. If someone is in immediate danger, call the police.
