Equality Standard UK NGB Pilot Self Assessment Survey Draft 1 of findings 25 responses recorded to date

Introduction NGB Equality Standard Pilot programme.... otherwise known as "coming ready or not"! Establishing the readiness of NGBs Purpose of survey was to gather info on the current standing of each NGB with regard to equality and to gauge how well each is placed to undertake the work necessary to achieve the Equality Standard. Draft results based upon 25 responses

UK NGBs - findings The great divide? NGBs have –Desire, knowledge, commitment but –Lack the necessary financial and human resources –Have a varied understanding of issues re under-represented groups

Representation & empowerment Gender issues appear to be minimal Disability and Ethnic Minority largely invisible in NGB council, staff, and membership. Instrumental and/or altruistic

Will the standard deliver? Totally positive acceptance Belief that the Equality Standard will do exactly what it is intended to. However, the findings do point towards a more instrumental approach to the Standard rather than one built wholly upon entitlement and equality.

Benefits Freedom to operate and build credibility Increase membership, meet legal requirements Raising profile that we are meeting standards, promote what is being done and increase credibility Reviewing human resource policies and procedures

Benefits Good for benchmarking Cohesion with other NGBs Understanding compliance Recognition of showcase equity work which can raise awareness Greater representation at staff and board level within currently under-represented groups

Major Challenges Active involvement of clubs / volunteers –Dissemination to clubs / volunteers as timing and logistics are a challenge –Communication with volunteer base across the sport Resources –Officer time - time is needed to assess ourselves across the standard –Train staff and volunteers to understand the concepts of equality –Lack of local level resources

Major Challenges Information –Raising the level of awareness. Getting the message amongst clubs and get their help with monitoring and evaluation –Clarity of what the standard is, how it applies & guidance in relation to practical usage Financial –Growing rapidly and need to increase financial resources. –Low income, limited resources "Hard to reach" –To attract people with disabilities and from diverse ethnic backgrounds –Understanding of different groups and how to market to them