Scots police examine 109 abuse claims

Police Scotland is investigating 109 reports of child sexual abuse in football, Chief Constable Phil Gormley has said.

The response is being co-ordinated at a UK level because many incidents involve more than one police force area, Mr Gormley told a Scottish Police Authority meeting.

He described the situation as being “fast-moving and fluid”.

Police Scotland is investigating more than 100 referrals relating to historical child sexual abuse in football.

Chief Constable Phil Gormley provided details during an appearance in front of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) yesterday and said his force was working alongside the Scottish Football Association (SFA) and children’s charity the NSPCC to provide a coordinated response. The SFA has agreed to set up an independent review amid a growing number of allegations relating to historical abuse.

Mr Gormley said his force had begun a “major investigation” and had so far received 109 referrals from the SFA, NSPCC and directly from members of the public.

He said: “Specialist, highly-trained officers from the National Child Abuse Investigation Unit and public protection teams across the country are assessing the information coming to us and determining the most appropriate response.

“This work is co-ordinated at a UK level because, in many instances, reports relate to incidents involving more than one police force area.

“The protection of children is a cornerstone of our service and should be a concern for all. This is a fast-moving and fluid situation which requires both sensitive policing and strong partnership working with advocacy services and other statutory agencies.”

Mr Gormley moved to assure victims they would be listened to and said all crimes would be subject to “rigorous investigation”.

But he warned his force’s capacity “may be tested” over the coming weeks and months as it responds to the growing number of referrals.

Allegations have been made against Hugh Stevenson, a now dead former youth coach and referee who is said to have continued working in football despite concerns being raised with both Strathclyde Police and the SFA.

Partick Thistle have identified a historical allegation of abuse against former club physiotherapist John Hart, who has since died, while Motherwell, where Mr Park also worked, have launched their own investigation.

Allegations have also been made against Gordon Neely, a former Rangers and Hibs coach who died two years ago.

The SFA has now taken “initial steps” towards establishing the scope of its review.

The announcement of the review followed pressure from various quarters, including Deputy First Minister John Swinney.

The NSPCC’S dedicated helpline is on 0800 023 2642.