The MoU will see NHS Protect share information for UKAD when it relates to the detection, deterrence, enforcement or prevention of an anti-doping rule violation.

It will also see UKAD share information with NHS Protect when it relates to the illegal prescribing, supplying, administering or disposing of NHS drugs within or for an NHS body.

"We are delighted to formalise our relationship with the NHS and strengthen our ability to tackle the supply of doping-related substances, particularly in relation to administration," said UKAD chief executive Andy Parkinson.

"This should send another clear message to those who are considering becoming involved in doping activities, that we are doing all we can to protect the rights of athletes to participate in clean sport."


NHS Protect leads on work to identify and tackle crime across the NHS.

Its purpose is to safeguard NHS resources so that the NHS is better equipped to care for the nation's health.

"UK Anti-Doping is one of the organisations with which NHS Protect shares intelligence and information," said NHS Protect's head of information and intelligence Richard Rippin.

"This ultimately helps both organisations prosecute and deter criminals."

Britain's Sports Minister Hugh Robertson has also welcomed the signing of the MoU

"Drug cheats have absolutely no place in sport and in the UK we are working hard to ensure we not only catch the cheats but the suppliers and traffickers that put banned substances in their hands," he said.

"The partnership between UK Anti-Doping and the NHS, with information sharing at its heart, will play an important role in the continued fight against doping."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]