How football clubs should approach risk management when faced with sexual misconduct & assault allegations

In a post #MeToo era, the dramatic increase in the number of sexual misconduct and assault reports made public intensifies each year and appears to be organizationally and geographically agnostic.

Within the world of sports, teams, governing bodies, and federations are grappling with an influx of cases and, especially in the context of football, attention has turned to sexual misconduct of management, officials, and players. This includes allegations made by members of the public. Sports organizations face significant challenges when such sensitive allegations are publicized. Specifically, in how they balance the conflicting demands of stakeholders from both a moral and commercial perspective, all while ensuring a fair and thorough investigative process, which can be complex and lengthy.

This article examines how football organisations can approach the sensitive task of investigating such allegations, looking at:

• Complying with Duty of Care
• Balancing Stakeholder Interests With Due Process
• Undertaking the Investigation
• Implementing a Response Strategy To Mitigate Risk
• Creating a Positive Culture