WIREDGOV

Sport England has welcomed the launch of UK Anti-Doping’s new “Report Doping in Sport” hotline.

The initiative, which was announced last year, comes on the back of UK Anti-Doping’s first six months of operation which has already seen a world-first positive test for human growth hormone. In addition the organisation has formed an Athlete Committee, celebrated five years of the “100% me” anti-doping education programme and provided education and support to every member of the GB team at the Vancouver Winter Olympics and Paralympics.

The Report Doping in Sport line is for athletes, support personnel or concerned family and friends to pass on information about the use, supply or trafficking of doping substances. The line gives the sporting community a simple mechanism by which they can lodge any suspicions or evidence they may have, safe in the knowledge there is nothing to fear by doing so. By dialling 0800 032 2332, callers will be able to speak to someone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Callers can remain anonymous and can rest assured that any information they share will not only be treated in confidence but be researched and investigated.

“To protect our athletes we need to tackle the supply and trafficking of doping substances,” said UK Anti-Doping’s Chief Executive, Andy Parkinson. “The most effective way for us to do this is with the help of athletes, coaches and support personnel as they are the closest people to sport. We are urging people to come forward with any information on doping, no matter how insignificant they might feel it is. The smallest amount of information could be the missing link that enables us to take action and protect sport from those who want to cheat.”

Minister for Sport and Olympics, Hugh Robertson, said “UK Anti-Doping has made a strong start since its formation as an independent organisation. It is forging ahead in the fight against drugs in sport and this is another good initiative to protect the integrity of sport. There is no greater threat to the sporting integrity of London’s Olympics than doping and it is incumbent upon us as the host city to have the strongest possible anti-doping measures in place. The ‘Report Doping In Sport’ hotline sends out a strong message to anyone coming to the UK that we do not tolerate cheats.”

To find out more about UK Anti-Doping and their work, visit their website