Safety in Touch is paramount for ETA

The England Touch Association’s management recognises, acknowledges and appreciates the range of emotions that many of the Touch community, particularly those playing in London might be feeling, sparked by the tragic news of Sarah Everard last week.

With so many women across our sport involved in Touch clubs and leagues based at
Clapham Common specifically, as well as across the Nation, this week has highlighted the
safety concerns that many of you may and do feel, on a daily basis.

As we continue to reflect on what has happened and the feelings that many in our
community are experiencing, we want to reassure you that the safety and welfare of
everyone that participates in Touch is of paramount importance to us.

We are acutely aware that we may not have all the answers and solutions immediately.
However, we are taking this time to review our own policies and practices to see what
improvements can be made. We will be engaging with our member clubs, leagues and other
organising bodies, continuing to work together to ensure safe spaces and environments,
while playing the sport we all love.

Women should never have to feel unsafe going about their lives and we are always here to
listen and support those that need our help.

If anyone in the Touch community would like to talk about their concerns or feelings around
safety in our sport, please get in contact with our Safeguarding Lead, Cari Thorpe, via safeguarding@englandtouch.org.uk.