Meet our new head of the CPSU Rachael Barker as she looks forward to 2026.
"I’m Rachael Barker, and I stepped into the role of Head of the Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU) back in September 2025. I’ve spent over 20 years working in child protection and safeguarding, starting out as a social worker and going on to lead teams, services, and large‑scale quality assurance work.
"Most of my career has been about making sure children and adults are safe, that practice is strong, and that organisations really understand what’s happening on the ground. I’m now bringing that experience into the sporting sector — helping to strengthen safeguarding, support good practice, and make sure we’re creating safe, positive environments for everyone involved in sport.
"As I reflect on my first 100 days, it’s been both a busy and incredibly rewarding start. I’ve been immersing myself in the sporting sector—meeting key partners, and learning about the journey of safeguarding in sport since the CPSU's creation in 2001. It’s remarkable to see how far we’ve come. But there's still work to be done.
"I'm keen to understand how we, as a collective, can put children at the heart of everything we do. How we can create a culture where children's voices are heard, where we collaborate and support each other, learn and grow. Where we use evidence and best practice to influence our decision-making.
"What I’ve seen so far across the sector is outstanding: dedicated work to safeguard children and adults and to create safe, positive environments for everyone involved in sport.
"Looking ahead, the CPSU has some exciting work on the horizon for 2026, not least of all it's been 25 years since the unit was formed and we are excited to share our plans for marking this milestone soon.
"The NSPCC is committed to it's efforts in supporting the sport and physical activity sector to not only keep children safe, but to help them thrive. This includes our work with Sports Council funded partners, offering paid-for services to wider sports organisations such as the Premier League and empowering parents and carers with our Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport campaign.
"I’m looking forward to continuing to collaborate with colleagues and partners across the sector as we strengthen safeguarding in sport together.
"I'm pleased to hear from key partners, so email our team at cpsu@nspcc.org.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn."