British Rowing Statement – Safeguarding Suspension

Mr Alex Turnbull has been suspended in line with British Rowing’s Safeguarding and Protecting Children Policy following an investigation into his conduct.

In accordance with British Rowing’s Safeguarding and Protecting Children Policy the Case Management Group (CMG) recommended a fixed-term suspension be issued. Mr Turnbull has been suspended from participating in rowing activities under the governance of British Rowing for a period of 10 years, effective from 18 March 2022.

At the end of the period of suspension and before it is lifted Mr Turnbull will also be required to undertake a British Rowing recognised and approved risk assessment which will be considered by British Rowing’s Safeguarding Case Management Group. Mr Turnbull will be required to advise British Rowing of his intention to approach a British Rowing affiliated club or an affiliated event for involvement in any capacity. The details of his suspension will be shared with any Club Welfare Officer or Event Welfare Officer, to ensure the safety and welfare of children.

British Rowing takes any matter relating to safeguarding children very seriously. It is essential that acts which compromise the safety and welfare of children are prevented, and that anyone who has contact with children does so in line with British Rowing guidance and adheres to the British Rowing Code of Conduct. Failure to do so will result in appropriate sanctions.

Safeguarding or child protection concerns relating to the sport of rowing, whether new or historic, should normally be communicated to the relevant Club Welfare Officer (CWO), unless there is a reason why this is not possible or appropriate. In such circumstances, British Rowing’s Lead Safeguarding Officer can be contacted at [email protected].