QPR to ‘cooperate fully’ with any investigations after sexual abuse allegations against former chief scout Chris Gieler

Loftus Road
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James Olley6 December 2016

Queens Park Rangers today insisted they will co-operate fully with any forthcoming investigation after the club’s former chief scout Chris Gieler became the latest name embroiled in football’s sex abuse scandal.

Gieler was QPR’s head of youth recruitment for 30 years before suddenly leaving Loftus Road in 2003 and the club decided not to mark his death a year later despite his long service.

It was reported this morning that several complaints have been made about Gieler’s behaviour dating back to the 1970s – including from one former QPR youth player – and the club said in a statement: “QPR Football Club has been made aware of the historical allegations made against former club employee Chris Gieler relating to child abuse in football.

“The club takes these allegations very seriously and will cooperate fully in any forthcoming investigation. Any form of abuse has no place in football or society.”

The club also went on to reassure supporters they have followed existing FA and Premier League rules regarding the safety of youth team players.

It said: “QPR has robust recruitment procedures and safeguarding policies in place to ensure the protection and welfare of both children and vulnerable adults, and we employ a full-time designated safeguarding manager who works across all areas of the club with specific responsibility to the Academy and Community Trust.

“In line with FA, Premier League and Football League guidelines, we have had someone responsible for safeguarding in place since 2011.

“As a club, we work closely with the police, local authorities and safeguarding agencies and comply with all best practice and legislation to ensure the protection of minors and vulnerable people who come into contact with the club. Employees at the club also receive specific training on all safeguarding issues on a periodic basis.

“Safeguarding covers everything from sideline abuse; swearing and bullying; to serious sexual abuse. As part of our safeguarding children strategy, the club - in line with legislation and government guidance - requires those working in roles with children and young people to pass a criminal records check and to supply references and background checks. This is standard practice.”

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