England Boxing taking positive steps on Diversity, Equality and Racism

England Boxing has begun to put into action its pledge to improve its diversity, equality and anti-racism stance across the organisation.

Having signed up to the Sport and Recreation Alliance Charter – plus having made its own statement on Diversity within Boxing (9th June) – a Working Group was formed in July.

It is looking at all aspects of Diversity, Equality and Racism with England Boxing, with a view to make recommendations, leading to lasting change.

Here is a brief summary of progress made to date:

• Working Group formed in July
• Diversity figures compiled across the organisation, which show England Boxing has a higher representation of BAME members across its membership (18.8%) than the national average (13%), but clearly shows under-representation in areas such as coaching and officiating
• Working group meetings conducted and ongoing
• Focus group meetings conducted and ongoing
• Interviews with EB members conducted and ongoing;
• Educational CPD training implemented for all Talent Pathway Coaches and Support Team
• Three KO Racism online workshops delivered
• New Safeguarding Course now includes a section on anti-racism

Other work is also ongoing, with recommendations having already been submitted to the England Boxing Board of Directors, and more recommendations to follow.

The next steps are to look at the existing England Boxing policies and procedures relating to diversity and equality.

This will include how the organisation can retain more Black, Asian and Minority groups within the sport, post-retirement from boxing, ways in which to increase diversity within the England Boxing staff/senior management, the setting up and conducting of Focus Group sessions with each region and separate Focus Group sessions with coaches and officials.