Sports clubs in Carlow and Kilkenny invited to take part in LGBTQ+ awareness training

Kilkenny Recreation & Sports Partnership (KRSP) has launched their new LGBTQ+ Awareness Training programme for sports clubs across Kilkenny and Carlow.

KRSP has developed a unique online e-Training programme with Accelerator Sport/eCoach. This self-guided LGBTQ+ awareness training programme takes 2 hours to complete and is designed specifically for sports clubs. The programme aims to equip clubs with the knowledge and tools to create more inclusive environments. 

KRSP has launched a pilot phase of the training in order to ensure that the programme meets the needs of local clubs. Sports clubs in Kilkenny and Carlow are invited to participate in this free training opportunity, with one representative from each club invited to take part in the pilot over the next 2 weeks. 

Clubs are asked to complete the training by 25 October to help provide feedback that will be used to refine the programme. Any clubs interested in taking part can register for the event at the KRSP website. 

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The programme has been introduced as a result of the in-depth 2022 study that sought to understand how LGBTQ+ teens and young adults felt about inclusion in sports. The findings revealed that 80% of LGBTQ+ teens aged between 13 and 18-years-old in Kilkenny and Carlow had experienced or witnessed discrimination in sports settings.

One of the key recommendations from the study was to offer LGBTQ+ training for coaches and trainers. Earlier this year, KRSP made contact with local sports clubs to discover how they understood and approached LGBTQ+ issues.

According to their findings, 93% of clubs had never received any LGBTQ+ awareness training. As well as this, 71% expressed interest in receiving such training and 79% requested a self-guided, online training format for convenience and accessibility.

This programme has now been designed to respond to the issues that arose from this research.

KRSP Sports Inclusion Development Officer Seamus Nugent commented on this important new initiative, saying: "At KRSP, we believe that education is key to combating prejudice and developing sports clubs, organisation and facilities where everyone feels safe and valued.

"Our new programme offers an accessible way for people to learn how they can contribute to a more inclusive sports environment, whether they are a coach, a team leader, or simply someone in the club who wants to be an ally."