The Sport Welfare Officer Network (SWO network) has been created to support National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and their local clubs to promote good practice and safer sport for all.

The network is funded by Sport England through National Lottery funding and aims to build safer clubs, supporting club welfare across the nation.

The SWOs are working with key partners to develop a local approach to assisting and supporting club welfare officers, to create safer club environments and improved experiences for children, young people and adults.

Read more about the Sport Welfare Officer Network

Meet the Sport Welfare Leads for Active Essex

Our Sport Welfare Leads are here to support Club Welfare Officers and sports organisations across Essex. Working at a local level, they help clubs access the right guidance, strengthen safeguarding practices, and create safer, more positive environments for everyone involved in sport and physical activity.

Whether you’re looking for advice, training opportunities, or support with a safeguarding concern, our Sport Welfare Leads can help by:

You can now chat with then online to find out more about what they do and how they can support you!
Click here to make an appointment with them
Read our more about their impact in numbers so far
Marianne Appleton

Sport Welfare Lead

Email: [email protected]

Mobile: 07341 124380

Wayne Hickey

Sport Welfare Lead

Email: [email protected]

Mobile: 07407 794710

Read more about Marianne and Wayne's Background

Marianne

Marianne brings over 25 years of experience across education, playwork, and learning and development. More recently, she has focused on safeguarding, wellbeing, and staff development, helping organisations create safe, inclusive environments where young people can thrive.

With experience working with children and young people in schools, holiday programmes, playwork settings, and as a volunteer, Marianne is passionate about empowering others with the knowledge and confidence to make a positive difference. She believes that when young people feel safe, supported, and included, they can get the most out of their experiences in sport and physical activity.

Wayne

Wayne has been a Sport Welfare Lead at Active Essex for two years, supporting clubs, coaches, and organisations across Essex to create safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments.

Before joining Active Essex, Wayne spent more than 30 years serving as a police officer, including many years investigating serious child abuse and safeguarding concerns. He also worked with The Football Association, supporting Club Welfare Officers and promoting good safeguarding practice across grassroots sport.

Wayne works closely with Club Welfare Officers, safeguarding leads, coaches, and volunteers, providing practical advice, guidance, and training. He is passionate about helping organisations build strong safeguarding cultures and ensuring that everyone can enjoy being active safely and with confidence.

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