The ECB have today published its report into the appalling crimes of Michael Strange. Strange was a Cricket coach convicted of committing a series of sex offences between 1993 and 2004.
The review, commissioned by the ECB and the Cricket Regulator, and independently conducted by Ray Galloway, details the offences, the impact they have had, and the lessons we can learn to improve safeguarding in our sport.
Whilst many of the offences have previously been reported in the press, during the various criminal trials and subsequent convictions of Michael Strange, this report provides deeper insight into his behaviours and recommendations for further preventative measures.
We are extremely grateful to those victims who were able to come forward to ensure Michael Strange was convicted for his crimes and to those who contributed to this report. The brave actions of these individuals will help protect future generations within our sport.
Our immediate thoughts are with the victims and those affected by the horrific conduct of Michael Strange. We apologise that this occurred within our sport and it’s something that everyone has been and continues to work hard to prevent ever happening again.
We welcome the recommendations of the report, and we will continue to work closely with the ECB to ensure each one is addressed and acted upon to make our sport as safe as possible for all.
The report acknowledges that these crimes took place at a time when the safeguarding standards of today were not in place, however it is clear there are still lessons we can learn from the report and continuous improvement is imperative.
Whilst there are now robust safeguarding measures at every level of cricket with policies, procedures, safeguarding officers and support in place for clubs and organisations, we will be supporting and pushing for continuous improvement and review to make the sport as safe as is possible for all who engage with it at any level.
We would encourage everyone to review the full report and the ECB response below:
The full report can be viewed here
A response on behalf of the ECB can be viewed here
If you would like to report any safeguarding concerns, seek advice on safeguarding matters or any further information on safeguarding you can contact:
safeguarding@durhamcricket.co.uk
https://www.cricketregulator.co.uk/share-a-concern