BADMINTONscotland  is committed to ensuring that equity is incorporated across all aspects of its business. In so doing, it acknowledges and adopts the following definition of equity in sport:

Equity in sport is about ensuring fairness and inclusion, and as such making sure that the actual opportunity to participate exists for all members of society. Sports Equity is about making sure that all our people can realise their talent and fulfil their potential.

Sports Equity is about individuals responsibility to challenge discriminatory practice and promote inclusion. Badminton Scotland has recently achieved the Premininary Level of the Equity Standard and we will continue to work to ensure that we work to our strategic plan to make badminton accessible to everyone.

The ultimate aim of the Standard is to get more people from under-represented or disengaged groups in society involved in sporting activity at all levels. The Standard focuses in particular on eliminating barriers currently faced by groups including women and girls, those from minority ethnic backgrounds and those with disabilities. Applying the standard will help to:

• Increase the number of participants, members, coaches, officials, spectators and volunteers by reaching new audiences.
• Enhance the skills and knowledge base of staff and volunteers.
• Ensure democracy and sound governance of our sport.
• Help meet legal duties thereby reducing the likelihood of litigation.

A copy of the policy can be found here

The Equality Act 2010 provides a new cross-cutting legislative framework to protect the rights of individuals and advance equality of opportunity for all; to update, simplify and strengthen the previous legislation; and to deliver a simple, modern and accessible framework of discrimination law which protects individuals from unfair treatment and promotes a fair and more equal society.

The provisions in the Equality Act will come into force at different times to allow time for the people and organisations affected by the new laws to prepare for them. For more information on this and to view the 2010 Equality Act please go to: www.equalities.gov.uk