The Challenge
The hard part is moving from "we support everyone" to what happens when someone actually raises a concern or needs an adjustment. Policies get written and filed away. Meanwhile, people from marginalised backgrounds still feel excluded because no one thought about how the room, the session, or the process actually works for them.
My Approach
I work on equality, diversity and inclusion in community sport and advocate for workers' rights through union volunteering. This is not about writing policies that sit in a drawer. It is about creating spaces where people can actually participate and feel welcome.
- Ground everything in lived experience - As someone who is neurodivergent and queer, I know what it's like to be in spaces not designed for you
- Focus on practical, sustainable changes - Small, consistent actions beat grand gestures that fizzle out
- Build relationships and bring people along - Inclusion work fails without buy-in; it succeeds through connection
Impact
- Created EDI policies for Leeds Comets covering pronouns in communications, accessible session formats, and a clear process for raising concerns
- Connected the club with local LGBTQ+ networks and sports bodies, widening recruitment and making sessions more visible to new players
- Supported UTAW members with workplace grievances, data protection queries, and representation in disputes with employers
- Coordinating outreach to bring in new players and make sessions visible to people who might not think netball is for them
Relevant Experience
- Leeds Comets CIC, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead: Building an inclusive, accessible netball community for LGBTQ+ players and allies. Creating EDI policies, connecting with local organisations and LGBTQ+ networks, and supporting outreach initiatives.
- UTAW/CWU, Volunteer: Union representative and volunteer Data Protection Officer for the United Tech and Allied Workers branch of the Communication Workers Union, advocating for workers' rights and ensuring fair treatment.