Summary
When working towards the Foundation Level of the Equality Standard, UKA led the submission in a ‘whole sport’ approach, incorporating the Home Country Athletic Federations. Since achieving the Foundation Level, the roles and responsibilities of UKA and the Home Country Athletic Federations have been more clearly defined and it has been agreed that UKA and each Home Country Athletic Federation would work towards the Preliminary Level of the Equality Standard independently so that each organisation can ensure that developments are made in the most appropriate way.
Approach
Our approach included providing capacity for the equality lead officer and guidance to the UKA team in preparing their submission. Due to the restructuring of the organisation in 2008 a profile of staff, board and officials was conducted through online and hardcopy surveys. The profile from was accompanied with a Training Needs Analysis to capture information relating to equality skills, competencies and previous training. The project was also extended to include a tailored training package for all levels of the organisation.
Outcome
Feedback on achieving the standard reflected UKAs dedication to the process. ‘UKA has taken a holistic approach to the achievement of the Equality Standard; UKA has reflected honestly and critically on where equality sat in relation to the organisation and the restructuring has afforded them the opportunity to embed equality in a way that is specific to the roles and responsibilities of the NGB.’ Equality Standard Verifier.