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30 September 2025  3 min read

Basketball For All: A new era begins as diversity action plan published

Approved by Sport England, the DIAP reflects BE’s commitment to the Code of Sports Governance – which states the fundamental principles NGBs and organisations who are in receipt of UK Government and National Lottery funding from Sport England and/or UK Sport must follow.

The plan sets out key milestones centred around five core ambitions that illustrate how BE will work towards making basketball more inclusive, accessible and enjoyable. They are: Leadership, Representation, Respect and Acceptance, Collaboration, and Equality and Equity.   

Four areas of underrepresentation will be addressed too, including the diversity of BE’s board members, representation of women and girls at participation level basketball, the diversity of officials and volunteers and disability basketball.

The DIAP was assessed by an independent consortium and recognised BE’s ‘compliance and hard work and commitment to good governance to ensure a diverse, safe, well-run and enjoyable environment for everyone involved [in basketball]’.

BE CEO Nigel Walker said:

“We’re delighted to be launching our Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan.

“It’s a landmark moment for basketball, which, in line with Sport England’s Uniting the Movement strategy, is helping to remove barriers, connect communities and get people active.

“Where there was ambition to make our sport fairer, more inclusive and safer, now there is a robust and flexible operational plan to implement and track action.

“Progress needs to be transparent, and we need to be accountable to make sure diversity and inclusion remain at the heart of our decision-making.” 

BE Chair Paul Blanchard said:

“At BE, equality, diversity and inclusion are core to how we build our sport. Every day, we strive to make basketball more accessible, collaborative and inspiring by ensuring everyone has a voice and the opportunity to thrive. 

“Through ‘Basketball For All’ we’re not only setting a standard but actively engaging with diverse communities to reflect the vibrancy of our sport at every level. By uniting passion with purpose, we can create lasting change, ensuring basketball is a positive force for equality.”

BE EDI Committee Chair and Board Member Brandie Deignan said:

“I am dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

“Embracing diversity in every aspect - from players and coaches to fans, strengthens our sport and unites our community. By prioritising mentoring, partnerships and inclusive practices, we can break down barriers and pave the way for a more equitable, accessible future in basketball. I welcome and encourage all stakeholders to join us on this journey.”

BE EDI Manager Dr Adi Fawcett said:

“It’s brilliant to celebrate the launch of the DIAP.  

“A lot of hard work and expertise has gone into creating a practical EDI framework that can be delivered for basketball.  

“I am passionate about how the sport brings people together, connects communities and makes a difference.

“The DIAP will help us to enhance and develop inclusive basketball environments and improve representation across all aspects of the game.”  

A key element of the DIAP is supporting accessibility across all BE’s service areas and the organisation has made an important step forward by ensuring that its new website and member registration systems are accessible for all. Read the Membership FAQs for more information. 

Read the DIAP