We’re pleased to welcome Portia Simond into her role as Relationship Manager & Sports Welfare Officer at Leap.

Portia will work closely with partners to support clubs, volunteers and organisations to create safe, inclusive environments, helping build confidence in safeguarding and welfare while connecting people to the right guidance and support.

With over ten years’ experience working in community sport locally, Portia brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing clubs. From creating and leading initiatives such as MK Smashers and MK Movers, to delivering holiday activity

programmes and developing inclusive walking groups, Portia’s work has consistently focused on breaking down barriers and bringing people together through physical activity.

A key part of Portia’s role will be supporting clubs and organisations to feel confident in creating safe and inclusive spaces. This includes sharing good practice, strengthening local networks, and helping ensure that welfare and safeguarding are embedded into everyday delivery. By working closely with partners, Portia will help create a joined-up approach that makes it easier for clubs to access guidance, training and support when they need it.

Portia is passionate about ensuring that sport and physical activity are accessible to everyone, particularly those who may not typically engage. This focus on inclusion will be central to her role, helping to ensure that safeguarding and welfare are not just requirements, but part of a wider culture where people feel welcome, respected and supported.

What is safeguarding?

Safeguarding is about creating environments where people feel safe, supported and able to take part. In sport, this means putting the right measures in place to protect children, young people and adults from harm, while making sure everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

Safeguarding is more than responding to concerns, but building a culture where good practice is understood, expected and consistently applied. From how sessions are delivered, to how volunteers are supported, safeguarding helps ensure that sport remains a positive and welcoming experience for everyone. Safeguarding is often confused with health and safety. While health and safety focuses on preventing accidents and managing physical risks, safeguarding is about protecting people’s wellbeing; making sure they are safe from abuse, neglect, discrimination or exploitation.

How our Sport Welfare Officer supports safer sport:

  • Supporting clubs and organisations to build safe, inclusive environments
  • Sharing practical guidance and examples of good practice
  • Helping review and strengthen safeguarding and welfare policies
  • Connecting clubs to training, resources and local support
  • Offering advice on welfare and safeguarding concerns
  • Strengthening local networks so clubs feel supported and confident

Get in touch:

If you have any questions or want to know how the network can support your club or activity please email po***********@************rg.uk