The Ethnic Communities Sports Charter
A Charter to enable the UK’s Minority Communities to fully benefit from sport and the societal benefits that it brings
Sport is a powerful tool for promoting health, mental wellbeing, social cohesion, and equality. We are committed to making sport available to all communities in the UK. We will ensure that sport in the UK reflects the diversity of our communities and provides opportunities for all.
This Charter invites individuals, schools, sports clubs, governing bodies and associations to commit to shared principles that promote inclusion for all.
Evidence of Need
We recognise that various minority communities are under represented within sport as a result of a lack of engagement and opportunities. We further recognise that women within minority communities are particularly under represented within sport as a result of cultural barriers and traditions.
This is within the context of minority communities having the worst health outcomes within the UK and many communities suffering from social isolation.
Please click here to download an ‘Evidence of Need’ document in PDF format.
Charter Commitments
1. Health and Mental Wellbeing (UNSDG 3)
We commit to:
- Promoting physical activity for all, especially among underrepresented minority communities.
- Embedding mental health awareness and support within our coaching, mentoring, and team structures.
- Providing safe, inclusive spaces that promote both physical and emotional wellbeing.
- Collaborating with mental health organizations to support young athletes.
2. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (UNSDGs 5, 10, 16)
We pledge to:
- Champion gender equality across all sports, at all levels—ensuring girls and women from all backgrounds have equal access to facilities and support structures.
- Promote the inclusion of ethnic minority participants, athletes, coaches, and officials
- Identify and remove barriers to participation through awareness, training, policy review, and ongoing dialogue with community members.
3. Education, Mentorship and Scholarships (UNSDG 4)
We will:
- Support the identification and development of talent in schools and community settings.
- Create and promote mentorship opportunities, especially matching young minority athletes with diverse role models and professionals.
- Advocate for and help facilitate sports scholarships and funding opportunities for underrepresented groups.
- Partner with educational institutions to embed sports as a pathway to personal growth and academic success.
4. Community Engagement and Social Inclusion (UNSDGs 10, 17)
We commit to:
- Engaging parents, schools, places of worship and community groups to promote inclusive sport and celebrate role models.
- Hosting and supporting culturally inclusive events that welcome diverse communities and celebrate identity through sport.
- Working with local and national partners to ensure policy and practice are inclusive and forward-thinking.
5. Accountability and Partnerships (UNSDGs 16, 17)
We pledge to:
- Monitor and evaluate our impact regularly through inclusive data collection and reporting.
- Share best practices across networks to drive systemic change in sport.
- Collaborate with other signatories to develop joint initiatives, training structures, and advocacy campaigns.
Signatory Agreement
By signing this Charter, we affirm our commitment to promoting a diverse, inclusive, and equitable sporting environment for all.
Only UK Citizens or UK residents are eligible to sign this Charter