As a Board, we fully support the Diversity & Inclusion Action Plan, and we’re dedicated to making sure it isn’t just words on a page but a real driver of change. To bring about the improvements required we recognise leadership does not start and end with us and so we will identify and champion the leaders who can influence this change.
Basketball remains one of the most diverse sports in England, bringing people together from different backgrounds, however we recognise barriers exist across opportunities in participation, coaching, officiating and leadership roles, and we need to address this. That’s why we’re taking action to ensure fairer recruitment, better representation and safer, more inclusive environments for everyone involved in the game.
Another key focus is ‘representation’ and creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the basketball community. To achieve this, we’re reviewing and auditing our recruitment processes to reduce bias and ensure people are judged on their skills and potential, not their background. We’re also evolving existing programs to help more individuals with protected characteristics progress into key roles within the sport.
Beyond recruitment, we’re focused on ensuring that ‘respect and acceptance’ are values echoed throughout the basketball spaces we provide. To do this we are reviewing our policies, working toward a clearer reporting system for concerns, and implementing mandatory training for coaches, officials and staff to ensure inclusivity is embedded in every part of the game. We also know that accessibility needs to improve, so we will be investing in adaptive basketball programmes and finding sustainable ways to reduce financial and physical barriers to participation.
We also recognise that inclusion isn’t something we can achieve alone. Together we are stronger and that is why ‘collaboration’ has been chosen as a key focus. By working closely with community organisations we believe we can make our initiatives reach those who need them most, and we’re committed to listening to the voices of players, coaches and volunteers from all backgrounds. By increasing representation in decision-making and amplifying the experiences of underrepresented groups, we can feel confident basketball in England reflects the people who play it.
Of course, commitment means nothing without action. That’s why we’re holding ourselves accountable, and will regularly review our progress, targets and make sure diversity and inclusion remain at the heart of our decision-making. Every member of our Board and leadership team has a role to play in driving this change, and we’ll be transparent about the steps we’re taking to reach our goals.
Our final key focus is ‘equality’, something this plan is ultimately about and a thread that will run through our DNA. This is a long-term commitment, and as a Board, we’re determined to make sure it leads to real impact. We’re excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working together to make basketball in England truly inclusive for all.
Basketball England Board of Directors
