Creating an inclusive space: RYA LGBTQIA+ Network

Since its launch in 2022, the RYA LGBTQIA+ Network has helped shape how we celebrate and champion voices from the LGBTQIA+ community. From inputting on how we mark Pride month to shaping a variety of RYA guidance, members in the network play a significant role in supporting inclusion in our sport. 

The network meets each quarter and is a space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies to collaborate on making boating activities more accessible and inclusive for all, regardless of their sexual orientation, sex, or gender identity.

Through the incredible commitment of network members, we have been able to gain further understanding of how we can facilitate belonging and extend this knowledge to the wider sailing and boating community.

Network member, Ed Riseman said: “Everyone should have a sport in their life - the benefits of teamwork, being with like-minded people and the sense of achievement far outweigh any aches and pains.  I was so excited when the RYA launched the LGBTQIA+ Network - our community is very present on the water but are also very invisible, the opportunity to raise the community profile and its contributions as well as it's needs meant for me a great chance to help change that.”

The network plays a key consultation role in the development of relevant RYA guidance and regularly gives feedback on improvements to equality, diversity, and inclusion training.  Amongst the network’s successes, is the increase in visibility and celebration of the valuable contribution to sport and recreation from the LGBTQIA+ community.  

Network member and RYA Cruising Instructor, Amelia Ralphs said: “My personal highlight has been observing RYA instructors change their approach to course delivery and noticing a real difference in the inclusive environment that instructors create during courses. Seeing the difference in the last 5-years with instructor's attitude to diversity and inclusion while working for the RYA makes me feel proud to be a part of the RYA.’’ 

Network member, Jeremine Hurst said: “My involvement in the network has undoubtedly been cathartic in my overcoming my fear of transphobia in that it gave me a path to help my ‘coming out’ process, helped me feel more confident in myself and therefore improved my self-esteem as I was stepping back into the world of sailing and joining the Clipper Round the World Race.”

The members of the network give up their time to support the RYA, and the community on the water, offering insight and knowledge though their lived experiences. We would like to thank each member of the network for their contribution and support in championing accessible sailing and boating for all. 

Want to get involved?

Could you support the RYA in breaking down barriers and safeguarding an inclusive and welcoming sport? Are you passionate about ensuring that sailing, boating, and watersports are accessible to all? If so, then we want to hear from you! 

For more information about the RYA LGBTQIA+ Network and how to join, email the Equality team.