Good governance: Alliance launches updated 'Code' for sport and recreation bodies

The Sport and Recreation Alliance has launched its second edition of the Voluntary Code of Good Governance (the Code) today, coinciding with today's Leadership Convention in Leeds.

Emma Boggis, Chief Executive of the Sport and Recreation Alliance said:

"The Code has been refreshed to reflect the significant governance changes that have taken place in the sector since its original launch in 2011.

"It demonstrates the immense commitment from organisations across the spectrum to continuous improvement. There are some great new examples of our members embracing positive change.

"The Code is not about imposing rules from above. Although the Sport and Recreation Alliance has played the leading role in its development, it is not our Code. It has been developed through consultation with a wide range of sport and recreation organisations, including Sports Councils.

"Thanks go to members of the Alliance Governance Working Group who helped shape this second edition by providing advice and guidance throughout the process."

Download the second edition of the code.



Changes to the Code include:

• new case studies from a range of Code signatories to allow others to learn from their progress
• updated language and terminology to reflect the latest governance requirements, expectations and changes that have occurred in recent years
• updated contacts and references to ensure that the sector is connected.
   

The Alliance also commissioned Birkbeck University to undertake an impact study of the Code since 2011. Findings will be published soon.

About the Code

The Code is designed to enable sport and recreation organisations to aspire to, and maintain good governance. It is a tool to help boards perform their role by using seven key principles as a guide:
 

1. Integrity: Acting as guardians of the sport, recreation, activity or area.
2. Defining and evaluating the role of the board.
3. Delivery of vision, mission and purpose.
4. Objectivity: Balanced, inclusive and skilled board.
5. Standards, systems and controls.
6. Accountability and transparency.
7. Understanding and engaging with the sporting landscape.
    

Each principle is accompanied with practical considerations and thinking points as well as case studies of signatories that have successfully implemented these principles.

To find out more about why you should sign up the Code, read our new edition and contact the Governance Team to sign up.

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