Message from Sports Ground Safety Authority’s Chief Executive Martyn Henderson

Sports Ground Safety Authority logoThe focus of everyone over the last month continues to be the COVID-19 pandemic. We know this is a very difficult time for many of you – both as individuals, who may be furloughed or anxious about your livelihoods, and the organisations you represent, many of which will be facing enormous economic strain. We are continuing to support clubs and local authorities where we can, albeit with much of our work being behind the scenes. For example, we are having discussions with Ofqual regarding assessments for existing learners in the challenging times caused by the suspension of live sport and events.

This week saw the anniversary of the Hillsborough tragedy, which is a crucial reminder to us all of the importance of what we do. Despite the trying circumstances, we are continuing to work hard and adapting to working and collaborating online. This month’s virtual academic forum, which focused on accessible stadia, was a success and we are planning for further events in the future. We were also pleased by the number of responses to our consultation which concluded earlier this month, many thanks to those who responded.

Finally, I’m pleased to welcome Tim Burgin as a new Inspector to the SGSA. Tim’s experience in building control will give us additional resilience in this key area. He will be in touch with his portfolio of clubs and local authorities in the South West of England in the near future.

Stay safe.

Martyn Henderson

Chief Executive

Sports Grounds Safety Authority