Sport Wales National Centre

        Canolfan Genedlaethol Chwaraeon Cymru

        Sophia Gardens  |  Gerddi Sophia

        Cardiff  |  Caerdydd 

        CF11 9SW

        0300 3003123
        www.sport.wales  |  www.chwaraeon.cymru

CEO | Prif Weithredwr : Brian Davies
Chair | Cadeirydd: Baroness, Y Farwnes Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE, DL

Delyth Jewell MS

Welsh Parliament

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff

CF99 1SN

20.07.2023

Dear Chair,

I am writing to you following the publication of the Committee’s report on allegations relating to allegations of inappropriate behaviour within the Welsh Rugby Union. Firstly, I would like to thank you and the wider committee for its engagement during the inquiry. Sport Wales was pleased to be able to share its experience, expertise and practices with the Committee to help inform its work.

In terms of the recommendations that the report made, I felt it appropriate to write specifically on recommendation 6 which called on Sport Wales to act. That recommendation stated that.

Sport Wales should consider the funding it provides to national governing bodies in light of any allegations of inappropriate behaviour within these governing bodies.

Sport Wales accepts the recommendation.  Sport Wales, as part of its capability and accountability process, would always consider the funding it provides in light of any allegations of inappropriate behaviour. This applies not only to National Governing Bodies of sport, but across our entire funded partner network.

There have been occasions where reductions in financial support, staggered payments or additional expectations have been provided in line with any offers to mitigate against risk. At present there is no formal offer to the Welsh Rugby Union whilst we await progress on a defined improvement plan.

Additionally, our review of the capability framework and developing accountability approach will strengthen further this commitment with an enhanced framework, including the implementation of a new complaints policy.

I hope this helps to reassure the Committee not only of our commitment to protecting public money and maximising its effectiveness from those we invest in, but also our ongoing commitment to supporting continuous improvement within the governance and behaviours of partnerships across the sport sector.

Yours Sincerely,

Brian Davies                                                                                                                                      

Chief Executive                                                                                                                

Sport Wales