British Gymnastics criticised over list of banned coaches

British Gymnastics has been accused by a campaign group of a “serious institutional betrayal” by not including more people on a list of banned coaches and members.

A list, external of 62 people was published on Wednesday as part of the governing body’s ‘Reform 25’, external plan.

Those on the list, which will be continually updated, have been given a time-limited ban or expelled from British Gymnastics because of a criminal conviction or safeguarding, conduct or disciplinary reasons.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety and wellbeing of all those involved in our sport,” said Geraldine Costello, British Gymnastics director of welfare and safe sport, after the list’s publication.

“While anyone banned or expelled had already been removed from the environment, we believe publishing this list is in the best interest of the sport and the wider public.

“It is one part of a much bigger programme of reform that we are continuing to put in place with the input of gymnasts, coaches, clubs and parents so that we can ensure we deliver an uplifting gymnastics experience for everyone involved in our sport.”

Read more here https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/gymnastics/66854412