Movement and Dance Division meeting
Date: Wednesday 5 October 2016
Time: 11:00am
Venue: Sport and Recreation Alliance offices, Caxton Street, London SW1H 0QT
PRESENT
In the Chair: Tracy Levy (Margaret Morris Movement International Ltd)
Deputy Chair: Ansell Chezan (UKA Dance)
MEMBERS: Lillian Aubrey (Northern Counties Dance Teachers Association Ltd), Christine Bannister (Keep Fit Association), Colin Corbett (Guild of Professional Teachers of Dance), Diane Corbett (ADFP), Valerie Farrant (Language of Dance Centre), Jacqueline Harper (Margaret Morris Movement International Ltd), Annette Hufton (NATD), Lisa Marucci (Language of Dance Centre), Patrick McGeough (WDSA UK), Yael Owen-Mckenna (The Laban Guild for Movement and Dance) Margaret Peggie (Fitness League), Ross Perriam (EMDP), Ann Thomson (Extend), Julie Tomkins (ISTD), Hilary Weedon (Medau Society), Jan Williams (BATD)
ABSENT WITH APOLOGIES: Alex Boyd (Lishi International), Nicola Gains Armitage (Dalcroze Society), Pat Hawkins (UK Cheerleading Association), Lyn Foster (National Association of Teachers of Dancing), Janice Moore (Keep Fit Association), Barbara Rose (Medau Society), Lee Mason (Sport and Recreation Alliance Director)
IN ATTENDANCE: Emma Boggis (Chief Executive), Chantel Scherer (Director of Marketing, Communications and Member Engagement), Kate Lawrenson (Membership Manager and Company Secretary) Rob Tate (Governance Officer), Leigh Thompson (Policy Manager)
1. CHAIR’S REMARKS
The Division formally noted the sad passing of Peggy Spencer MBE, President of the Imperial Society of the Teachers of Dancing, who died in May. Peggy was an Honorary Member of the Alliance and it was acknowledged that she had done much for the Division.
The Chair then welcomed everyone to the meeting. She congratulated the Olympians and Paralympians for the recent achievements; the Theatre Dance Council International who had held their British Championships in August and had excellent results for their teachers and students; the KFA event in April show pieced the positive benefits of dance for girls; the Medau team were performing in Slovenia at the Golden Age Gym Festival and the Wheelchair Dance Sport Association would soon compete at their first Dance Festival and National Competition in October.
TL reported on her attendance at the Alliance’s Sport Summit in May 2016 and heard how Jennie Price, Chief Executive of Sport England, explained that they would be looking at their application process to make it more accessible for first time applicants, assuming they met Sport England’s objectives. TfL provided a useful presentation to show how everyone held data and it was the use of that information that would assist with unlocking funding. At the launch of Physical Activity and Health: Working Together in July, TL was informed again that dance was being embraced as part of the physical health and activity agenda. In June she attended the first Fitgroup seminar with Ross Perriam [see agenda item 4].
The Chair congratulated Wheelchair Dance Sport Association on their 10th anniversary, EXTEND on their 40th and the KFA on their 6th decade.
Before starting the meeting, TL commented that the recreation and sporting landscape was changing and the Division must look at what it, as providers of physical activity, could do to promote dance, movement and exercise. They had come a long way to see dance recognised as physical activity alongside swimming and football in schools. It had happened and as providers the Division did not want to be left behind and watch others fill the space in the market, which may not be as joined up as the Division imagines it to be. She hoped that the agenda would encourage everyone to think about preparing their organisation ready for the challenges ahead.
2. FIT FOR THE FUTURE - ALLIANCE BRIEFING
2.1 UK Governance Code
Rob Tate (RT) provided an update on the Government’s new code of governance. RT announced that within the Government’s Sport Strategy, Sporting Future, UK Sport and Sport England (SE) were tasked with creating a combined code of governance, which would become mandatory for any organisation in receipt of public funding. UK Sport and SE had been working together on this process since early 2016, and were now close to releasing the Code.
During the development of the code, the Alliance had been taking every available opportunity to make sure the interests of its members were taken into account during the drafting process. In addition to meeting regularly with those responsible for the new code, the Alliance had responded to the online consultation on behalf of the membership as well as ensuring this was distributed to all members for the opportunity to complete an individual response.
In May 2016, UK Sport and Sport England released “A Charter for Sports Governance”, which revealed the nine principles around which the new code would be formulated. As expected, these could be mapped closely to existing standards of good governance, including the Alliance’s own Voluntary Code of Good Governance and similar codes in the charity sector. Whilst it is expected that the content and overall principles of the new code would be similar to existing standards, it is thought that the new code would be more prescriptive in its requirements.
Moving forward, the position of the Voluntary Code of Good Governance would be assessed against the new UK Sports Governance Code to identify where the main differences lie. We expect to maintain the Voluntary Code in a similar format, as an introduction into good governance and a stepping-stone for those seeking progression to compliance with the UK Sports Governance Code. The Alliance would provide guidance on the differences between the two codes, and the actions, which would be required to progress to full compliance with the new code.
When asked about timescales, RT informed members there it was expected that the Code would be available at the end of October and expected to see that the code would be implemented from March 2017; there would be a phased transition after this point, therefore giving organisations the necessary time to become compliant - some organisations would need to change their constitutions or Articles to be compliant and this would not happen immediately.
The Chair strongly recommended that those organisations who had not signed up to the code to look at it and encourage their Boards to sign up as, regardless of their legal set up, it provided the stepping stones to good governance for organisations. The Chair suggested that any organisation seeking funding from SE or any source would have to show good governance and the Voluntary Code was a well written practical guide. The Chief Executive agreed, but pointed out that if Divisional members did want to seek funding, good governance was a necessity.
2.2 How to access Sport England funding
RT stated that, assuming good governance in place, or on its way, members may wish to consider seeking funding from SE now that they had released information from their new strategy to target the inactive and engage with underrepresented groups.
SE now had five clear outcomes within their strategy and were willing to fund any organisation that were capable of delivering on these outcomes:
RT stated that it was clear that members of the Division could meet those objectives. There were seven investment areas and members should look to see where their own strategies and programmes could deliver with a view to approaching SE:
The current NGBs fell within the category of ‘core market’ and SE was currently discussing their future funding strategies with them. Once this was completed, information regarding the remaining six investment areas would be released and the Alliance would circulate details ready for the Division, and other members to consider how to proceed.
The Chief Executive stated that it was important that the Division consider what evidence they had to demonstrate and show impact as SE would look for this when considering the funding request. She reminded the meeting that there was no new money and SE would have to make decisions on investment that would impact on other NGBs and organisations.
RT confirmed that until the guidance on the remaining six investment areas were released it was not clear what difference would be made for individuals ie teachers, to claim funding. However, as soon as it was known the Alliance would circulate details, and the Chair recommended that all those interested to review their existing projects and identify whether any would be suitable for funding opportunities. A copy of the presentation is available on the website.
2.3 The future of volunteering in sport and recreation
The Chief Executive (Emma Boggis EB) spoke about volunteering and how this was one of the investment streams for SE. They were looking to provide £30 million funding over the next four years to help increase the number of volunteers. The money was a bespoke fund aimed at increasing the number of volunteers, by helping reduce the volunteering age, and help increase the skill base of the people volunteering. The SE volunteering strategy was scheduled to be released in November, and would focus on seven sub priorities; increasing diversity, improving digital information, matching service to club, prioritise motivation and needs of volunteers - an intrinsic value, pilot new approach to become innovate, increase resources available into Club Matters, and committing a dedicated budget.
From an Alliance perspective, it was recognised that volunteering was relevant to all of its members. Earlier in the year there was an opportunity to look at bidding for the Join In Trust assets. Join In was created after London 2012 to put more volunteers into community sport to enable people to live healthier and happier lives. The Alliance secured this bid and in a partnership would continue building on the sport volunteering legacy Join In had created in this next chapter after Rio 2016 and work to create even more opportunities for sports volunteers across the UK. Through securing the assets, the Alliance would gain access to the data from all the clubs and volunteers that were apart of Join In, access to their website and their branding, local leaders and research.
2.4 County Sport Partnerships (CSPs) and your relationships with them
The Chair opened this discussion by stating that it had been suggested that the CSPs could offer an avenue to promote dance, movement and exercise. The CSP Network was “a nationwide network of 45 CSP that were committed to improving lives by growing grassroots sport and physical activity” and have been the subject of a recent independent review chaired by Andy Reed.
As dance is now recognised under physical activity the Chair thought that she would take the time to review each of the CSPs to see what was listed under that section. She tabled a copy of her search for information. It was clear that no two CSPs were the same and that there were different funding opportunities depending upon the activity from school aged children through to 50+ and fall prevention. Including the health agenda and local initiatives and there were potential opportunities that the Division and teachers could take advantage of. Apparently CSPs were once only allowed to promote and deliver SE activities but under the wider remit the local officers might be able to include a wider range of activities if they are made aware of them.
Lee Mason, Chief Executive of the CSP Network, is also the Board Representative on the Division. He will attend the next meeting of the Division and would explain the opportunities under their new funding and advise the Division, as provided of physical activity, how best to engage with the CSPs. What you could expect and how to move forward.
The Chair acknowledged that some members may already be working in partnership with their CSP and have a good relationship. For those that do not, she suggested looking at their website and ascertaining exactly what they were providing and make contact with the CSP officer; ask the teachers to upload their classes and activities where possible and come to the next meeting with the information.
Surrey CSP was in a different position as EMDP was a Board member and received considerable information on their Facebook page; similarly, Margaret Peggie was a Board member of Oxfordshire CSP and the Chair hoped that both MP and EMPD could assist the Division on the ongoing discussions regarding funding opportunities. Yael agreed a partnership arrangement was the best way forward as it worked for the Laban Guild. Patrick commented that some CSPs had a disability officer in place where for others it was seen as a ‘bolt-on’ role and that the organisations should not all suddenly approach the CSPs ‘en masse’ until after the meeting with LM when they have more information, and knew what to expect. This was acknowledged as a sensible way forward.
MP pointed out that regarding loading of classes by teachers, they would need to ensure they had all the correct credentials in place ie safeguarding. Ross Perriam commented that it was important to ensure all classes were registered – the more the merrier. He also recommended using www.classfinder.org.uk which was a free site and worth adding the classes to if not used before.
2.5 Twitter project
Chantel advised that following a discussion with the Chair, it had been proposed to bring the Division together as a group on Twitter. It appeared that all Divisional members used Twitter, if not themselves then at least someone within the organisation.
It would be used to promote things of interest to the collective and share information among members. There may be some cross over among participants which could be interesting to see but it was hoped that it would raise the profile of everyone involved.
The Alliance would circulate guidance on how to build followers, some ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ etc. It was agreed to proceed with a twitter account for the Chair of the Division and invite the members to sign up. Details will follow soon.
3. ALLIANCE’S NEW STRATEGY 2017- 2021
Emma Boggis (EB) gave an update on the Alliance’s new strategy for 2017 – 2021.
Current Alliance strategy covers 2014 to 2018 but it was recognised that a lot has happened since the previous strategy was planned:
Externally:
Internally
The Alliance has had a new CEO since September 2014, a new independently appointed Chair in January 2016, a new senior management structure which was established earlier this year. Three new Board members who joined formally in July including two new independent members. So the Board has decided that rather than let the current strategy run for its final year it would be better to start with a new plan from 2017.
EB reviewed what the Alliance was good at and also what it is not so good at and suggested the following;
What are we good at?
Not so good at?
The new strategy would aim to continue the things the Alliance did well – and seek to do them better. EB then encouraged members to discuss the following three questions;
1.) What does the Alliance do well?
2.) What ideas should the Alliance start to do?
3.) What should the Alliance stop doing?
Some of the proposed feedback included;
Areas to develop and consolidate
New areas
EB thanked the members for their comments and advised that the current timescales for publication were:
If members had any further thoughts or views they were encouraged to contact EB, eboggis@sportandrecreation.org.uk or Andrew Moss chair@sportandrecreation.org.uk.
4. FITGROUP UK
Ross Perriam (RP) explained how at the end of 2015 EMDP had its remit extended from dance fitness to cover all of group fitness. The aim of FitgroupUK was to help grow the profile and market size of group exercise in the UK by:
A separate website landing page has been developed for Fitgroup and the website would be developed over the coming months. www.fitgroupuk.co.uk
The key ethos of FitgroupUK was to be the voice speaking for the sector rather than a voice preaching to it. With this in mind, the Panel consisted of forward-thinking key influencers, each of whom brought with them a diverse range of experiences and skill sets to help achieve the aims of the company.
Key opinion leaders were invited to two summits for opinions to identify steps to double weekly participation from 5 million to 10 million in five years. The seven key themes were identified as:
1. Beginner classes or routes for fun and easy exercise with knowledgeable instructors
2. Help instructors understand the mindset and motivations behind inactive individuals or their target market
3. Make group exercise more inclusive through wording and imagery.
4. Promote an encouraging environment that leads to more activity and realistic goals
5. Education in exercise through Partnerships
6. Urge funding from the Government and community
7. Add credibility to fitness instructors and the fitness market by requiring a minimum training course
The company was in final stages of talks with a chair for the group and its first meeting planned for 11 November. Terms of reference and strategic aims would be set and how to take forward those seven items identified above. Ross was adamant that he did not want this to be a bureaucratic exercise and there was a great will on the Panel to increase participation. The Chair thanked RP for his report and the Division would look forward to its developments.
5. ANY OTHER BUSINESS
5.1 2017 Divisional Elections for Chair and Deputy Chair
The Chair reminded members that Divisional elections would be held next year. Anyone could stand for the position of Chair and Deputy Chair but only the authorised Representative member could nominate and, in the event of a ballot, cast a vote. The Chair stressed that any ballot would be held at the next Divisional meeting by those Representative members present; no postal ballots or proxy votes were permitted although if you wished to change Representative Member for the sake of the meeting, this was allowed and members should contact Kate Lawrenson as appropriate.
The Chair informed the meeting that it was her intention to stand for re-election.
5.2 Carl Alan Awards - These would be held on 8 October in Blackpool and Lilian Aubrey had been nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award [see separate report on the Awards from Lilian]. Carl Alan Awards
5.3 Dance Proms – 30 October at the Royal Albert Hall.
5.4 World Congress – The Division was advised that no further information had been forthcoming, despite requests for details.
5.5 PRS/PPL – The Alliance had been informed that there were no plans for a review to the licences until April 2017. The Division would be informed when more information was available.
5.6 VAT – It had been brought to the attention of the Alliance that there was an issue regarding VAT where HMRC had stated that ballet and drama were the only areas classed as ‘educational’ and other elements of dance could not claim back VAT. The Deputy Chair reported that his organisation was very concerned about this. The Chair agreed and confirmed that following content by Annette Hufton, NATD, the Alliance was looking into this further and would keep the Division informed of developments. It would be on the agenda for the next meeting.
5.7 Compliance issues – the Chair advised the members that their Boards should be aware of Companies House introduction of ‘Persons of Significant Control’. She advised the Members that there were lots of changes happening within Charity Law, fundraising and the small business, enterprise and employment bill. Patrick advised the members about changing the legal structure from a charity/company limited by guarantee to a CIO with over £100k in turnover could be done from February 2017 and retain the same company number/incorporation date. Directors and Trustees may need to know some of these details and she recommended members sign up to the updates circulated by Bates, Wells and Braithwaite for more information. www.bwbllp.com [click on the “sign up for our updates” box on the right-hand side, middle of page]
5.8 90th Anniversary for the MMM taking place in Switzerland in 2017 MMM will celebrate 100 years since their first Summer School
5.9 Wheelchair Dance Sport – first inclusive Dance Festival takes place on 22 October, in Hertfordshire at Wodson Sports Park in Ware. Patrick would welcome anyone if they would like to attend. He also reported that the GB competitors had reached 7th position.
5.10 The Chair highlighted the point that members should remind teachers regarding inappropriately placed cameras when children were changing clothes for classes. Lilian stated that she had to cover cameras for classes as some venues had cameras where they should not be located under child protection policies.
6. MEETING DATES FOR 2017
7. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
· Leadership Convention 2-3 November, Manchester. Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel
· 15 March 2017 - Equality & Diversity Training for Sport and Recreation Workshop
· 16 March 2017 - Safeguarding Adults Workshop.
· 2017 Sport Summit 24 May, Kia Oval
Minutes from the Movement and Dance Division Meeting 5 October 2016
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