Equality, diversity and inclusion

Do you have a safeguarding or equality, diversity and inclusion concern?      

What does equality, diversity and inclusion mean?

Equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are a set of actions working alongside each other to promote fair treatment and opportunity for all. EDI aims to challenge prejudices, stereotypes, and biases – whether in healthcare, employment, education or sport and recreation.

 

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Equality

Giving people the same opportunities regardless of their personal characteristics.

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Equity

Allowing everyone to receive the treatment and environment they need to thrive.

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Diversity

Embracing individuality and celebrating differences across all communities.

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Inclusion

Creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and valued.

 

EDI in sailing, boating, and watersports 

EDI helps the RYA, and its members to flourish. It helps us all to continue progressing on our journey to being inclusive.

People now have higher expectations when it comes to their engagement with organisations and their participation in activities. Having inspiring and empowering role models is important, and listening to the lived experiences of our stakeholders gives us a platform for learning and developing.

Potential participants will look for organisations which are progressive, inclusive, and sustainable. It is imperative that we strive to meet and exceed those expectations, to ensure the future of sailing and boating.

Diverse voices

Mid-shot of young man wearing sun glasses driving motor boat on city river on a sunny day

Powering up accessibility and inclusivity

Meet Abdul, a passionate powerboating enthusiast who recently excelled in an RYA powerboating course.

 

smiling woman standing on sailing yacht with an excited expression on her face

You get to see the world in a whole new light

When you are on the water, you view the world in a whole new light.                                                                                           

 

candid shot of parasailor sailing a dinghy on the open water

Freedom, friends and feeling part of a community

When on the water, I feel alive, free. It’s a great laugh.                                                                                                            

 

Top tips for an inclusive environment

candid shot of a sea cadet climbing into a  sailing dinghy
  • Stand up to inappropriate and offensive behaviour. Learn how to be an Active Bystander.  
  • Allow others in your community to speak safely and freely on matters that concern them.
  • Be open to allowing other people to educate you on matters that you haven’t experienced. 
  • Actively support the inclusion of diverse groups of people. Be sure to have effective anti-discrimination, hate speech and equality policies to support this. 
  • Facilitate events that allow people from outside your club to get involved in your sport and recreation. 
  • Take a look at our Inclusive Language Guide.
  • Ask for feedback and act upon any reasonable suggestions. 

Discover more about this in our EDI resource pack.

Signposted organisations

 

Activity Alliance - disability inclusion in sport
Asian sports Foundation - Connecting communities through sport
Black Swimming Association
Christians in Sports
Gendered intelligence
Maccabi GB - for an active Jewish community
Muslim Sports Foundation
Pride Sports
Sporting equals

 

Women in sport

 
I would love to receive EDI resources

Sign up to receive EDI resources and guidance documents from the RYA Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team