You have no items in your shopping basket.
Key facts and statistics
- According to the Continuous Household Survey (2022), 53% of adults in Northern Ireland participate in some form of physical activity at least once a week. This figure underscores Sport NI's vital role in encouraging regular participation.
- The sports sector contributes approximately £693 million annually to Northern Ireland’s economy, highlighting the financial and health benefits of a robust sports infrastructure.
- Engaging in regular physical activity reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Sport NI's initiatives aim to increase these health benefits by making sports more accessible.
Key definitions
- Physical activity - Any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. This includes activities undertaken while working, playing, carrying out household chores, travelling, and engaging in recreational pursuits.
- Sports development - A structured process to improve sports performance, increase participation, and enhance the quality of sporting experiences.
Recommended best practices
Implementation of legislation and regulations
- Compliance with safety standards - Sport NI ensures that all sports organisations adhere to the highest safety standards, per the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines. This includes regular risk assessments and the implementation of appropriate safety measures.
- Equality and inclusion - Under the Equality Act 2010, Sport NI promotes inclusive practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of age, gender, ability, or background.
- Child protection - Sport NI mandates that all sports clubs implement child protection policies in accordance with the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the guidelines provided by the NSPCC’s Child Protection in Sport Unit.
- Governance standards - Sport NI supports sports organisations in meeting good governance standards, as outlined in the UK Code for Sports Governance. These include transparent decision-making processes and accountability mechanisms.
Recommendations for sports organisations
- Regular training and education - Organisations should invest in continuous training for coaches, staff, and volunteers to keep them updated on the latest safety protocols and best practices.
- Community engagement - Building strong relationships with local communities can help increase participation rates. Initiatives such as community sports days and free taster sessions can be effective.
- Facility management - Proper maintenance and upgrading of sports facilities ensure they are safe and inviting. Regular inspections and updates are crucial.
- Monitoring and evaluation - Implementing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks can help organisations measure their programmes' impact and identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion
Sport Northern Ireland plays a crucial role in enhancing the health and well-being of the population through its comprehensive sports development initiatives. By adhering to best practices and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and regulations, sports organisations can significantly contribute to these efforts.
Invest in the health and future of your organisation with ComplyPlus™. Click here to learn more about our legislation and regulatory compliance management software. Together, let's build a healthier, more active Northern Ireland!
About the author
Dr Richard Dune
With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.
