Welsh Gymnastics appoint new Executive Director of Safeguarding

Welsh Gymnastics is pleased to confirm the appointment of Lisa O’Connell as Executive Director of Safeguarding.

This new and key role will see Lisa responsible for leading and providing strategic direction on all aspects of safe sport, across the organisation.

She will also work across Wales in every aspect of gymnastics activity, which will include working with clubs, leisure centres, parents, coaches, performance programmes and educators.

Lisa qualified as a social worker in 2012 and began her career in front line child protection, until being appointed as the social worker for the Invisible Walls Wales project at HMP Parc.

Following this, she worked for the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub based at Cardiff Police Station before going to work in Canada, supervising safeguarding case managers.

“I am delighted to join Welsh Gymnastics and become part of the team on the journey to delivering an uplifting gymnastics experience for all,” said Lisa, who also becomes a key part of Welsh Gymnastics’ Senior Leadership Team.

“My role will be part of the vision to deliver and support the gymnastics community with a sport that is safe, enjoyable and open to everyone.”

Welsh Gymnastics CEO Victoria Ward added: “I’m delighted to welcome Lisa on board as part of our team.

“Her background and experience speaks for itself and this is a key appointment as we set out our Safe Sport Plan. We are fully committed to ensuring that everyone, particularly children, have a positive, healthy, safe experience of gymnastics.

“Putting gymnast welfare and wellbeing at heart of everything we do is our top priority – and will be the spine that runs through the whole of Welsh Gymnastics.”