Equity means much more than equality. It is not just about equal numbers, but is concerned more with fairness, justice, inclusion and respect, and about the upholding of social justice to ensure that all individuals are respected, have equal opportunities and have their rights protected. Equity in sport is about making sure that everyone has an equal chance to take part in sport if they choose to do so, and no one is discriminated against for reasons such as gender, race, disability, age, religious or political belief, sexual orientation or social background. Furthermore, it’s about making sure that any barriers which stand in the way of under-represented groups are eliminated.
All sports clubs should be contributing to these aims in their policies and everyday practices. Clubs can put in place structures and practices that embrace equity through a well thought through programme that embraces diversity and addresses specific areas such as women and girls in sport, gender reassignment, sexuality, race and ethnicity, ageism, disabilities, faith and religion and/or social inclusion.
The resource links in the right-hand column provide you with both the Equality Framework document and some standard Equity Policy and Statements that you can adapt for your club. You'll also find some more helpful downloadable resources including codes of conduct, ethics guides and fair play guides.
The Importance of Diversity in Sport
Everyone has a unique range of skills and knowledge that they bring to sport. An effective organisation recognises this and values its diversity. It acknowledges the benefits of different cultures, abilities and lifestyles in helping to develop the sport and achieve organisational objectives. In terms of recruitment of employees and volunteers, an effective organisation recruits, selects and develops people according to the needs of the organisation and the capacity to undertake the work required. In terms of participation, an effective organisation promotes and welcomes the range of talent and knowledge of all individuals involved in the sport and in the wider community.
