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Charter launched to improve diversity in sport

Sporting clubs and organisations are being invited to sign a new sports inclusion charter that aims to improve equality and diversity in sport across Plymouth.

As part of the work of the Council’s Equalities and Diversity Working Group, the charter has been designed to help ensure that everyone is able to participate in sport and sporting activity, and feel the benefits that regular exercise brings.

The charter was designed following a sports inclusion conference held last year, that brought together local organisations to discuss and share ideas on how the City can better understand the local barriers to sport, and introduce measures that can ensure that sport is accessible to everyone.

The new sports inclusion charter sets out some principles that the Council would like local sports organisations and clubs to commit to fulfilling.

Organisations who sign the charter will be making a clear commitment that they will not tolerate ageism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, misogyny, disablism or any other prejudice within their organisations. Signing the charter also shows that clubs will be taking proactive steps to promote equality, challenge discrimination within their organisation or club and ensure that their activities are as accessible as possible.

Cllr Rebecca Smith, Chair of the Equalities and Diversity Working Group and Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Homes and Communities, said:  Over recent years we have had a number of professional athletes representing Plymouth on the global stage. They have come from a host of different cultures, backgrounds and circumstances. We want everyone to feel inspired to follow in their steps. We don’t want anyone to feel that they can’t get involved in sport because of their identity, background or ability.

“All sports clubs and organisations understand that they have a legal responsibility to stamp out unfair discrimination. However, as we all know, this is often not the case. And as a result, there are some people who feel that they are unable to participate.

“Our new charter showcases those that are trying hard to make a change and make a difference.”

By signing the charter, organisations will be provided a digital logo that they can place on their website and materials, demonstrating their commitment in this space.

For more information, or to sign the charter, go to: www.plymouth.gov.uk/promoting-inclusion-sports-plymouth.