Feedback from the sector indicates that barriers like homophobia, gender stereotypes, and lack of representation are still prevalent in sports. Experiences in schools also heavily impact LGBTQIA+ participation, with homophobic and transphobic bullying common. Although some elite athletes are coming out, representation remains limited, especially in men’s sports such as football and rugby.
(Trans and non-binary inclusion and sport is covered in a separate note)
Key Recommendations
Provide mandatory equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) training for all sports facility staff, with access to continuous learning resources.
Establish clear anti-discrimination policies, including zero tolerance for homophobia. Ensure inclusive practices in membership and employment, consulting with LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups for guidance.
Practical Improvements
Collaborate with local LGBTQIA+ organisations, participate in events like Pride, and display symbols of support, such as Pride flags, to foster an inclusive environment.
Implement and enforce zero-tolerance policies for any form of discrimination. Encourage an environment where individuals feel safe reporting issues anonymously if needed.
Barriers
- Homophobia: Significant exclusion due to hostile environments in sports. Only 5% of respondents felt enough was being done to tackle homophobia and transphobia in sports.
- Gender Stereotypes: Reinforcement of "boys’ vs. girls’ sports" excludes non-binary individuals.
- Experiences at School: 55% of LGBTQIA+ youth reported being bullied, and 99% heard the term "gay" used negatively.
- Lack of Representation: Few role models in men’s sports like football and rugby, where numbers remain small.
Recommendations & Create Safe Spaces
- Zero Tolerance Policies: Strictly enforce zero-tolerance policies for homophobic and transphobic language or behaviors.
- Visible Support: Publish inclusive policies on websites, social media, and noticeboards. Display Pride flags and participate in Pride events.
- Staff Training: Train staff to ensure they understand and use inclusive language and challenge discriminatory behaviors.
- Inclusive Employment Policies: Ensure your facility adopts inclusive employment and gender identity policies, created in collaboration with LGBTQIA+ members.
- Partnerships: Partner with LGBTQIA+ organizations, such as LEAP Sports, to enhance inclusivity through events and training.
- Leadership: Take a leadership role by visibly committing to tackling homophobia in sports and providing training for officials to recognize and address issues.
Demonstrate Inclusivity
- Self-Evaluation: Assess if your facilities, staff, and policies are inclusive. Seek feedback from LGBTQIA+ members to identify and resolve barriers.
- Raise Awareness: Actively promote awareness of the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals through education and visible action.
- Representation: Ensure your organization supports LGBTQIA+ role models and provides safe spaces for all members.