Press Release

Code for Sports Governance Review – The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland response

London, 2 July 2021

The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland welcomes today’s announcement on the outcome of the review of the Code for Sports Governance. The Institute is proud to have played its role both in the review process and in supporting Sport England and UK Sport funded organisations via the Sports Governance Academy, which it established in 2020 to improve governance within the sport and physical activity sector.

Sara Drake, chief executive of the Institute says:

“We have welcomed the good progress in governance throughout the sector since the implementation of the Code in 2017, and it is encouraging to see a desire to continue to challenge organisations to embed strong governance practices.

“It is right that improving diversity and inclusion has remained a focus in the new iteration of the Code, building on the progress made but recognising that renewed effort is required to make organisations reflective of our communities and also appreciating the benefits to decision making that a broad range of perspectives offers.

“However, we are also encouraged by the Code’s emphasis on new areas such as embedding good governance not just in the boardroom, but throughout an organisation, and recognising the importance that environmental and social impact must play in decision making.

“We look forward to the release of the new Code in September and working with our partners in the sector to promote its implementation.”

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Notes to Editors:

  1. The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland is the qualifying and membership body for governance with over 125 years’ experience of educating and supporting governance professionals. With a Royal Charter purpose of leading ‘effective and efficient governance and administration of commerce, industry and public affairs’, we provide professional development, guidance and thought leadership, and work with regulators and policy makers to champion high standards.

    The Institute has divisions in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong/China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Southern Africa, the United Kingdom and Zimbabwe. The division headquartered in London represents and supports members in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Crown Dependencies and associated territories, which include the Caribbean, sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. Website: www.cgi.org.uk 
  2. The Sports Governance Academy (SGA) is the governance support hub for the sports and physical activity sector. The SGA is a unique partnership between The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland and Sport England. The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity is a strategic partner, providing a vital link with the sector. We also work closely with UK Sport, ensuring that our resources and services meet the needs of the full range of sports organisations across the nation.
    sportsgovernanceacademy.org.uk