Multi-sport Volunteering Forum: ‘How to become a more Inclusive Club'

A multi-sport workshop was delivered at Dungannon Integrated College earlier this month with a sole focus on developing an understanding for volunteers on how to improve inclusivity within sports clubs. The session, jointly organised by Ulster Rugby, Irish FA Foundation and Ulster GAA, was attended by clubs from all three sports. It was delivered as part of ‘Sport; A home for lifelong volunteering programme’, which is funded by the Department for Communities. Three guest speakers from different organisations delivered presentations to increase awareness around disability, diversity and making clubs more accessible to under-represented groups in our communities. Shane McCann from Ulster GAA identified new initiatives within their sports to support those with disabilities, Elaine Reid from Disability Sport NI discussed how her organisation can assist clubs to increase opportunities for those who are disabled and Nuala Devenney from the Rainbow Project focused on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community and how it’s important for clubs to increase awareness around this topic. On the evening, the three sports also launched the new Inclusion Charter, and this was adopted by clubs on completion of the workshop. After a consultation with all grassroots clubs, the three sports identified a gap in provision and knowledge around this area and the information on the evening was greatly received. Ulster GAA Disability Officer, Shane McCann, commented: “Being an inclusive club should not be an extra add-on to a club, it should be an integral part of every sports club. Opportunities are becoming more prevalent and with the continued support from governing bodies, this will continue to improve. Those with a disability should be encouraged to try all disability sports to find the one that is right for them.” Elaine Reid from Disability Sport NI said: “Disability Sport NI is delighted that Northern Ireland’s three largest governing bodies of sport have launched an Inclusion Charter for their clubs. We hope that by continuing to work in partnership with the sports that the number of opportunities available for people with disabilities to play, compete and volunteer within the club environment will continue to grow.” The Rainbow Project’s Nuala Devenney added: “I feel the workshop in Dungannon with the Ulster GAA, Ulster Rugby and the Irish Football Foundation was the start of a great partnership to support LGBT+ individuals who may be part of their team/club presently and feel unable to come out. The Rainbow Project encouraged those club volunteers to start thinking of their own club/team and even small steps such as posters, badges or wearing rainbow laces that can make a big difference. It's important to make the LGBT+ people feel accepted and knowing there is someone they can talk to.” Ulster Rugby’s Club & Community Development Officer David McKay also hailed the success of the event: “This workshop was an extremely important part to the journey Ulster Rugby and our clubs are on to become more inclusive. We are committed to breaking down stereotypes and barriers to our game and being open to all members of the community.” For more information, please contact David McKay: david.mckay@ulsterrugby.com.