Cyclists and other athletes who suspect others of being involved in doping have been encouraged to come forward and provide information to the UK anti doping agency, UKAD.
The initiative, which has been set up as the countdown continues to the London Olympics in 2012, sees a 24 hour confidential hotline being set up so that concerned parties can provide tip-offs. Apart from athletes, their support personal and even family and friends are able to use the service.
“This new initiative is just one of many tools used by UK Anti-Doping for intelligence gathering,” explained the UKAD in a statement. “The line gives the sporting community a simple mechanism by which they can lodge any suspicions or evidence they may have, safe in the knowledge there is nothing to fear by doing so.
“The phone line is powered by Crimestoppers and calls will be answered by professional call handlers trained in anti-doping. All information will be fed into the UK Anti-Doping Intelligence Unit and processed following the National Intelligence Model widely used by law enforcement.
“Callers can remain anonymous and can rest assured that any information they share will not only be treated in confidence but be researched and investigated.”
The UKAD has been working for the past six months, succeeding UK Sport as the body responsible for conducting tests.
Its chief executive Andy Parkinson said that tackling the supply and trafficking of banned substances was very important in protecting the athletes. “The most effective way for us to do this is with the help of athletes, coaches and support personnel as they are the closest people to sport,” he stated. “We are urging people to come forward with any information on doping, no matter how insignificant they might feel it is. The smallest amount of information could be the missing link that enables us to take action and protect sport from those who want to cheat.”
For those in the UK with concerns, the number to call is 0800 032 2332