Participation in higher education has changed and increased over time, creating more diverse student and staff populations. This is also the case in communities local to institutions.
Different people have different needs and requirements. Sports services that are aware of these differences and are inclusive and accessible to all staff, students and local community members will maximise participation and inspire people to get involved in sport and exercise.
This guide for HEI sports service managers and students’ unions explores participants’ diversity, the benefits of providing an inclusive service and how to take a strategic approach.
Understanding participants’ diversity
- An overview of the barriers and specific issues for people with different equality characteristics, and international students
Benefits of an inclusive approach
- Equality Act 2010
- Offering a competitive service
- Generating and sustaining financial income
A strategic approach to inclusive sports services
- The role of directors of sports services
- Building an evidence base
- Developing engagement with service users
- Marketing and communication
- Reviewing policies and practices
- Designing accessible facilities
Inspire – the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy
The guide has been awarded the Inspire Mark by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in recognition of the contribution to supporting the Olympic legacy.
The government and higher education funding councils recognise that the higher education sector has has a key role to play before, during and after the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Using the 2012 Games as a driver, institutions and students’ unions should aim to support the widest possible impact of the legacy. Inclusive sports provision will ultimately lead to a legacy of quality experience and outcomes for all participants.
