UK Active Champions Safer Spaces for Women and Girls in Fitness and Leisure
London, UK – August 14, 2025 – UK Active, a leading not-for-profit health body, today reinforced its commitment to fostering safer and more inclusive environments within the fitness and leisure sector for women and girls. The organisation has published a comprehensive new article, “Continuing the fitness and leisure sector’s work to create safer spaces for women and girls,” underscoring the ongoing efforts and shared responsibility across the industry to address this critical issue.
The article highlights the vital role that fitness and leisure facilities play in the well-being of women and girls, offering not only physical health benefits but also crucial social and mental health advantages. Recognising that a sense of safety is paramount for individuals to fully engage and benefit from these services, UK Active is dedicated to driving progress and ensuring that every woman and girl feels secure and respected within these spaces.
Drawing on extensive experience and collaborative efforts with operators, governing bodies, and safety experts, the piece outlines key strategies and best practices that are being implemented and championed by the sector. These include:
- Enhanced Staff Training and Awareness: Equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to identify, prevent, and respond to inappropriate behaviour is a cornerstone of creating safer environments. This encompasses training on safeguarding, unconscious bias, and the specific needs of women and girls.
- Improved Facility Design and Management: From well-lit changing rooms and accessible facilities to clear signage and robust reporting mechanisms, the physical environment plays a significant role in fostering a sense of security. The article emphasizes the importance of design that considers the diverse needs and potential vulnerabilities of users.
- Robust Safeguarding Policies and Procedures: Implementing clear, comprehensive, and regularly reviewed safeguarding policies ensures that there are established protocols for reporting concerns, investigating incidents, and protecting individuals.
- Promoting a Culture of Respect and Inclusivity: Moving beyond compliance, the sector is actively working to cultivate a culture where respect, consent, and inclusivity are deeply embedded in every interaction and service offered. This involves encouraging open communication and empowering users to speak up if they feel uncomfortable.
- Collaboration and Information Sharing: UK Active continues to facilitate dialogue and knowledge sharing across the sector, enabling operators to learn from each other and adopt the most effective approaches to safety and safeguarding.
The publication of this article signals UK Active’s continued dedication to leading the charge in this vital area. By providing practical guidance and advocating for a sector-wide commitment, UK Active aims to ensure that the fitness and leisure industry remains a positive and empowering space for all women and girls, allowing them to pursue their health and well-being goals without fear or reservation. This ongoing work reflects a deep understanding of the importance of trust and safety in building a healthier and more equitable society.
Continuing the fitness and leisure sector’s work to create safer spaces for women and girls
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