Five of Wales’ top outdoor sporting bodies have joined together to tackle inequalities and expand participation in their sports.

RYA Cymru Wales, Welsh Cycling, Welsh Canoeing, Welsh Rowing and the Outdoor Partnership have joined together to form the Welsh Outdoor Sports Equality Steering Group in this exciting new venture.

The aim is to boost participation in outdoor sports from all communities in Wales, providing exciting opportunities across the range of activities, to be led by a new chairperson and members of the steering group.

“We are currently seeking applications from individuals from a wide range of backgrounds to support the work we are all doing to tackle inequalities and to grow the breadth of participation in our sports and activities,” explained RYA Cymru Wales national development officer Ruth Iliffe.

“The purpose of this group will be to support the direction of travel in relation to equality and inclusion of the above organisations.

“The group will scrutinise, support and challenge each organisation and provide support to help achieve relevant equality standards and awards.

“The Welsh Outdoor Sports Equality Steering Group will help draw on good practice from other organisations and National Governing Bodies as well as promoting their successes.

“We are currently looking to recruit both an Independent Chairperson and individuals to sit on the group. Each individual should bring specific insight and skills from the areas we are looking to target.

This initiative is particularly aimed at the following areas, LGB and T communities, women and girls, Black, Asian & Minority Ethnicity groups, disability, child poverty, Welsh language and age.

The chairperson will lead the steering group to support the organisations in delivering their Equality Action Plans and support projects such as Insport and helping to achieve the Equality Standards for sport.

Group members will help shape the organisation’s direction of travel to ensure children, young people and adults from a range of backgrounds have access to a high quality experience.

Individuals will support the organisations in their National Equality Action Plan(s) and help achieve the Equality Standards for sport.

If you wish to have a chat about this exciting opportunity please contact Ruth Iliffe ruth.iliffe@ryacymruwales.org.uk 07824990696