Special Olympics Great Britain (GB) welcomes Adam Leathwood to the National Office Team as its new Safeguarding Lead, following a competitive interview process.
Adam, who has worked in safeguarding roles for more than 10 years, will work closely with Special Olympics GB’s accredited clubs to provide a safeguarding framework, which helps the volunteers at its grassroots clubs to maintain the highest possible standards.
Vanessa Snell, Director of Operations at Special Olympics GB, said: “In addition to being vastly experienced in the safeguarding industry, Adam is well known to the Special Olympics GB family, having previously been Network Development Manager (Safeguarding) between 2020 and 2022. He also supported our work as a voluntary safeguarding officer for two years ahead of this.
“As a volunteer, Adam also supported safeguarding for the local organising committee at last year’s Special Olympics World Games in Berlin and for our National Office at this year’s National Winter Games in Folgaria.
With such strong knowledge of Special Olympics GB, Adam is well known to many members of our network and he is connected to colleagues in the Special Olympics movement around the world. We believe that he will be an excellent addition to our National Office team.
Adam Leathwood said: “I'm so happy to be returning to Special Olympics GB, after leaving previously to pursue a career in the humanitarian sector. However, I quickly realised that my passions are firmly rooted within the intellectual disability sector, and especially in sport.
“Despite making a career move, I have stayed involved with the Special Olympics movement over the last two years through competitions and events.
“There is no other organisation quite like Special Olympics GB and the inspirational work of our athletes and volunteers is something I shout about on a regular basis. I am proud to say that I am part of this incredible organisation and feel like I have returned home.”