Purpose of the research
We commissioned this research to update, refresh and grow our equality evidence and understanding. We want to further understand how ideas and actions are progressing in this area across the sector to help reduce inequalities and barriers. This research also provided an evidence base to inform our new equality outcomes for 2025 to 2029.
Context
We commissioned Horizons Research to conduct our Equality and Sport 2024 research. The project took place between May 2024 and December 2024, with most of the primary research with the sector taking place in September and October 2024. Sporting Equals delivered the research on race and ethnicity. We thank the researchers as well as partners and staff who took part in this research. Their contribution and feedback were invaluable.
Our Response
The research explores ways to help improve work within the sport sector across Scotland, to advance equality, eliminate discrimination and foster good relations. It has delivered a set of practical recommendations that can strengthen our approach.
We will work with staff and partners to respond to the findings of the research. We recognise that more needs to be done to support the sector and we will use the evidence and feedback collected as part of this research to review our existing resources and develop more in the future.
We recently published our new equalities outcomes for 2025 to 2029. This research provided an evidence base to inform the outcomes.
We are committed to working with partners, communities and sports clubs to gain insight and make it easier for people to be involved in physical activity and sport at whatever level they choose.
Forbes Dunlop, Chief Executive, sportscotland, April 2025