Emily Wilkins

Job Role: My job role is Sport & Physical Activity Welfare Lead, working alongside Rachel Garbutt as part of a national network of sports welfare officers within Active Partnerships across England. In this role, we partner closely with National Governing Bodies, local clubs, and community groups across Greater Manchester. Our primary focus is to offer support to Club Welfare Officers, while also promoting and championing a positive safeguarding and welfare culture across the region. Together we'll help to create a safe, inclusive space for children and people of all ages to participate in sports and physical activity.

Date Joined: November 2025

Professional Background: My academic background consists of a BSc in Psychology and Sport and Exercise Science and an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology, with a particular focus on wellbeing in sport and dissertations exploring athlete and coach burnout. Before joining GM Moving, I worked as a Social and Recreational Sport Coordinator at York University Students’ Union. In this role, I led the management of the College Sport Programme, ensuring safe and positive participation experiences. I also provided strategic oversight of social sport initiatives to increase accessibility and participation among underrepresented groups, expanding programmes and securing funding in collaboration with national and local partners.

Safeguarding and welfare in sport are central to my professional values, and I continue to develop in this area through additional qualifications and ongoing CPD. I am excited to continue the fantastic work of Katie and Rachel, and I hope to make a meaningful contribution during my time at GM Moving. I look forward to being an active part of the Sport Officer Welfare Network and leaving a positive impact on the clubs and communities we support.

Fun Fact: I’ve skydived over the Whitsundays, and a bungee jump is next on my bucket list!