Kelly Leach

One of the leading Voices in International work against sexual abuse and harassment in sport across the world. Safe Sport Advocate; VOICE Ambassador (Voices for Truth and Dignity Combating Sexual Violence in European Sport through the Voices of Those affected), Sport England Safeguarding Advisory Panel, Council of Europe Pool of European Experts on Sexual Violence in Sport, International Safeguarding Consultant, Psychotherapist, Facilitator, Moderator, 2021 Winner Mental Health Media Awards Ireland - Mental Health Content Special Interest Award.

As a child, Karen was recognized as a talented swimmer with strong aspirations and a realistic chance of representing Ireland at the Olympic Games. Between the ages of 10 and 17, Karen spent endless hours in the swimming pool. During this time, Karen was routinely abused by her coach.

Since the publication of Karen’s lived experience in the book Deep Deception, Irelands Swimming Scandals. Karen has been speaking out across the world and advocating on behalf of children, young people, adults at risk, and athletes at every level.

She is working to create a greater level of awareness to encourage safer spaces for everyone at risk in sport, working regularly with international organizations in an advisory role, public speaking capacities, facilitating various group works, moderating different events across the world.

Karen is psychotherapist through this avenue she has been able to help and support others, including those who have suffered abuse. Many athletes across the world have contacted Karen to share their experiences in sport. From this and Karen’s own experience, she now finds herself speaking out and standing up for how people with lived experience, who have become safe sport advocates, are being treated.

At the Youth Olympic Games Buenos Aires, Karen spoke at the first ever Olympism in Action forum, she assisted the International Olympic Committee in educating athletes and entourage members about this important topic