Research on Youth Athletes in Elite International Sport - Safeguarding and Welfare Study

UK Sport is seeking a research supplier to conduct a consultation examining youth athletes (under 18) competing at elite international levels. The research will explore athlete experiences at major competitions including Olympic Games, Paralympic Games, Commonwealth Games, World Cups, Championships, and international training camps. The study will investigate current safeguarding and support measures, identify risks, and recommend policy improvements to protect young athletes' welfare. The research should use qualitative or mixed methods to gather insights from current and retired under-18 athletes, their families, and support staff, with a particular focus on early specialisation sports such as Aquatics, Gymnastics, Ski & Snowboard, and Skateboarding. Key areas of exploration include time commitments to training and competition, anti-doping support, demographic differences, and circumstances that may increase athlete vulnerability. The supplier must have proven experience interviewing young people on sensitive topics with safeguarding as the top priority. The research should align with UK Sport's Safe Sport Project and employ innovative athlete recruitment strategies. Deliverables include a comprehensive evidence base, stakeholder consultation, an engagement strategy centred on youth athlete voices, and a final report with policy recommendations. This is a priority project linked to Whyte Review recommendations.