Rangers respond to Scottish FA’s sexual abuse report

Rangers have finally responded to the Scottish FA’s report into sexual abuse in Scottish football.

A general view of Rangers' Ibrox stadium

The Ibrox side was specifically mentioned in the document that was published one month ago but until now, had not commented on the findings.

As part of the review, 33 people, some of whom waived anonymity, provided personal accounts of their experiences.

Those who came forward included Jon Cleland, who told of how he was abused by a coach, referred to as D, who worked at Hutchison Vale Football Club and later at Hibs and Rangers and died in 2014.

A club statement published on Friday March 12 addresses “specific instances” involving Rangers and issues an apology to all those affected.

The statement read: “We are in receipt of the report published by the SFA following the review of sexual abuse in Scottish Football and have taken some time to consider its lengthy findings and recommendations.

“We are firmly committed to ensuring openness and transparency in relation to this issue and agree on the uninterrupted ethical obligation of clubs over time, irrespective of changes. We express our sincere sympathy to all individuals who have suffered abuse within the Scottish game and commend the bravery of all survivors who have come forward.

“With regard to the specific instances referred to, as the report states, these concerned one former employee. We note the report accepts that when former senior managers were provided with a direct allegation this was taken seriously and dealt with promptly. The report commends the action taken and acknowledges Rangers have previously said publicly the matter was reported to the police at the time.

“Today, Rangers is at the forefront of child safety and well-being in football. We believe it is a moral obligation to ensure that Scottish Football is beyond reproach and all safeguarding measures are strictly adhered to.

“We agree that it is time for all of Scottish Football to learn from and take responsibility for mistakes made in the past. We fully acknowledge the impact of these events and the enduring effect on individual lives. We apologise to anyone personally affected by abuse within Scottish Football.”

Other clubs highlighted in the report including Celtic, Hibs, Motherwell, and Partick Thistle all issued responses to the findings last month.

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