Sporting Equals CEO looks forward to help build an active nation
Arun Kang, CEO of Sporting Equals, the charity that works to increase ethnic diversity at all levels in sport and physical activity is delighted that Sport England's new strategy recognises that under-represented groups need to be targeted if a significant impact is to be made on getting the nation active. This strategy comes on the back of the Government strategy, "Sporting Futures", and aims to get everybody to feel able to engage in sport and physical activity. A survey, recently conducted by Sport England, indicated that more than 50% of BME groups in England do no sport at all.
Arun Kang, CEO of Sporting Equals, said:"The new strategy presents a real opportunity to target those that need bespoke support and help change attitudes and behaviour to sport and physical activity. Our research and experience shows that a one-size fits all approach will not work and that a more joined up collaborative approach is needed at a local level echoing the new strategy if we are to tackle the barriers that prevent over half of black and minority ethnic (BME) communities getting involved in sport and physical activity. Children of Indian ethnic origin are the least physically active of all seven year olds, and therefore we are particularly pleased that the strategy talks about working with children and young people from the age of 5 years.Arun continued, "Sports providers be they governing bodies of sport, local authorities, or leisure operators need to recognise the significant changes in UK demographics which show that, in some cities, BME communities account for nearly 40% of the local population. This represents a real opportunity for these providers to make a difference to the most under-represented but it also means that these areas will need investment and commitment to making sure their offers are sensitive to the cultural, and sometimes, faith needs of these diverse communities. Sporting Equals have already started to make a positive impact in cities such as Birmingham, Manchester and London by supporting sports providers to engage with faith and community groups and stimulate participation in sport. "
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