With you.
“It’s impossible to over-state the importance of the [BEAA] within British sport.
“I’ve been an athlete, a coach, a mentor and an athletes commission member, and I’m pleased to say that, as my career has developed and the roles I have taken on have diversified, I’ve seen real progress in terms of athlete representation and genuine investment into athlete experience.
“This is thanks in no small part to organisations such as the [BEAA], who work not just on behalf of current athletes, but within the system and alongside NGBs and partner organisations to ensure that a tangible, positive legacy is in place for future generations of British competitors.”
Writing in The Telegraph about British Rowing’s athlete-led selection consultation, Moe said:
“It was an initiative by the [BEAA]… It was our opportunity to voice concerns about selection, offer up ideas that we thought might improve things [in] areas where we believed the system could be more open and athlete-friendly.
“The good news was: it really helped to let grievances out. It was really positive not to feel things had to be suppressed.”
Speaking to The Times about mental health support within elite sport, Ellie said:
“There are a lot of support networks out there. If you feel there are issues then talk. Don’t be scared to talk. Bottling it up makes it worse. The [BEAA] are incredible. We’ve got mental health advisers. Loads of people are talking about mental health now and the support system is getting better.”
Speaking about the BEAA’s work in helping to recoup £7,500 owed to several athletes after a commercial dispute, Lucy said:
“I’m grateful to the [BEAA] for all their support and quick action on this matter. It really concerned me when the scope of the situation became apparent, and the [BEAA] were fantastic in their response, going above and beyond.”
Speaking about the BEAA’s work alongside the EIS to facilitate Athlete Rep mental health training sessions, Sam said:
“As soon as the opportunity arose, I jumped at the chance, and found it a really, really useful session. I’m really glad that the [BEAA] gave me the opportunity to do this, and I learnt a lot.”
In a blog for the BEAA, Lizzie said: “Having an organisation, such as the [BEAA], that provides comprehensive, impartial support to athletes facing hardship and challenges, is an integral part of optimising athlete welfare.”
Having been appointed to the Board of Directors in 2021, Hollie said: “The increase in the [BEAA]’s work in the last 12 months shows that athletes are finding their voice, and increasingly feeling like they can speak out about issues and things that they are passionate about.”
Speaking to the Anything but Footy podcast about abuse in gymnastics, ‘Helen’ said: “Somebody told me about the [British Elite Athletes Association], and it was the best thing I did, making that phone call. They were fantastic. They immediately believed us, which I think was one of the hard things. The [British Elite Athletes Association], from day one, were there to support us… I would recommend the [British Elite Athletes Association] are the people on your side.”
Speaking to the Anything but Footy podcast, Asha said: “[The BEAA] are separate. If you really do have an issue or you want to talk about something, there’s no wrong or right way to say it… If you need to say something, trust and believe the [BEAA] are actually listening.”
Having joined the BEAA as Athlete Community Manager, Milly said:
“I went through the process of seeking support with the BEAA as I started my transition out of sport, and realised the help and support that’s out there as athletes.”
Speaking direct to the BEAA, Caragh said:
“It feels like the BEAA is offering proper advocacy and support and signposting. I’m excited to see the direction it appears to be going, and I’m excited to see where it goes.”
Speaking to the BEAA, Robyn said:
“I have been fortunate enough to have been involved with the BEAA through their Parents’ Network. A great initiative that has helped me and my partner as soon-to-be-parent athletes connect with other parent athletes and share stories and experiences. It has been a great comfort to know that I can call upon the BEAA to assist with various topics surrounding elite sport and parenthood, especially as a same-sex parent.”
Speaking directly to the BEAA, Nekoda said:
“There have been times in my career where I felt I needed support outside of the governing body. The BEAA is a cushion to fall back on and is someone you know will be there to listen to your voice. They have supported me in the past, and I know they will support me in the future if I need it.
“That’s why for me the BEAA is really important, and it’s important for athletes to know about because they are an organisation who are athlete-focused and athlete-centred and will support athletes away from the governing body, if and should they need that, with anything. It’s really important other athletes know about it and know they can turn to the BEAA should they need it.”
