NSPCC appoints Aaron Prior as new head of Child Protection in Sport Unit (CPSU)
The NSPCC is delighted to announce the appointment of Aaron Prior as the new Head of the Child Protection in Sport Unit. Aaron will officially step into the role on 14th April 2025.
Aaron brings a wealth of experience, joining the CPSU from his senior role at British Gymnastics, where he has helped to shape the Sport’s Reform 25 plan developed in response to the Whyte Review, and the future strategy of the Welfare and Safe Sport Team. As part of this role, Aaron worked closely with partners on projects such as the Sport Welfare Officers through Sport England, and the policy making document commissioned by British Gymnastics and produced by Lime Culture.
His deep understanding of safeguarding in sport and his passion for creating safe environments for children and young people make him exceptionally well-suited to lead the CPSU in its vital mission.
As Head of the CPSU, Aaron will oversee the strategic development of CPSU initiatives, strengthening partnerships across the sports sector, and ensuring best practices in child protection are upheld and advanced. His leadership will be instrumental in driving our vision of creating safer environments for every child involved in sport and physical activity.
Aaron Prior shared his enthusiasm for the role, saying:
“I am thrilled to be joining the CPSU and wider NSPCC. The role the CPSU plays in the sporting system is vitally important as a support to NGBs, Active Partnerships and other Sport and Physical Activity providers. I look forward to working with the whole team to continue and develop that exciting work. With the challenges that sports have faced in recent years, and the planned legislative changes to implement the IICSA report recommendations, this is a crucial time for the CPSU and the sector, and it’s a real privilege to be joining the team.”
Christian McMullen, Director of the NSPCC Professional Learning Services, welcomed Aaron’s appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome Aaron to the NSPCC as the Head of CPSU. His expertise and dedication to safeguarding will be invaluable in helping us continue our work to protect children and young people in sport and activity.”
The NSPCC CPSU was established in 2001 to support sports organisations in developing robust safeguarding policies and practices. Through partnerships with governing bodies, clubs, activity providers and organisations across the UK, the CPSU works to ensure that every child and young person can enjoy sport safely.