An ‘inclusive and diverse’ workforce theme for active-net 2019

An inclusive and diverse workforce has been announced as the theme for active-net 2019, with bookings already being taken for the sixth annual two-day conference.

The 2019 event will take place on 27-28 March at Eastwood Hall in Nottingham, a charming property set in 26 acres of spectacular grounds, just a short drive from Nottingham City Centre.

active-net brings together over 100 operators and suppliers within the active leisure sector for business focused, pre-selected one-to-one meetings, together with informative workshops, educational sessions, networking lunches and an evening meal with after dinner speaker.

David Monkhouse, director of Leisure-net, the leading customer insight provider for the active leisure sector and organiser of the active-net event said: “The leisure sector needs to ensure its workforce is both inclusive and diverse. Promoting and supporting diversity in the workplace is important for both good people management and business – it’s about valuing everyone in the organisation as an individual. However, to reap the rewards of a diverse workforce it’s essential to have an inclusive environment where all are valued and able to realise their potential.”

active-net’s opening panel session, titled ‘An inclusive and diverse workforce – ensuring we maximise the talent available’, will be chaired by Andy Reed OBE (Director at The Sports Think Tank and Saje Impact), Sandra Dodd (CEO Places for People Leisure), David Stalker (CEO Oxygen Free Jumping), Andy Delby-Welsh (Deputy CEO Activity Alliance), Tara Dillon (CEO CIMSPA), Hilary Farmiloe (Aspire, InstructAbility National Programme Manager) and Arun Kang (CEO Sporting Equals).

The panellists will bring to the floor their knowledge and practical examples; asking why is it important to have an inclusive and diverse workforce? And how positive change can have a meaningful impact in the leisure industry for their staff, in terms of quality, ability and retention as well as customers, both new and old.

The breakout workshops will focus individually on Gender, Disability and BAME (black Asian minority ethnic), helping operators make the most of the talent available to them and explore whether they are accidentally or deliberately excluding people. Already confirmed to lead these workshops are Andy Reed OBE, Brett Smith (Professor and the Head of Research within the School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Birmingham) and Tara Dillon.

Andy Reed OBE said: “I’m delighted to be chairing at active-net 2019. The leisure industry is a long way behind where it should be with regards to diversity and inclusivity. The sessions will challenge the lack of urgency regarding these important issues in the sector. David and the Leisure-net team have pulled together a great panel and I hope to create some stimulating and informative dialogue.”

Monkhouse concludes: “The quality of this year’s speakers and the strength of the panelists debating these important issues will ensure the delegates are armed to make positive steps to diversity in their workforce.”

For Further information or to book your place contact Kirsty Reed at Leisure-net by emailing kirstyreed@leisure-net.org of visiting active-net.org

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For further press information contact:
Sarah Lloyd at Big Fish Public Relations
Tel: 07801 234369
Email: sarah@bigfishpublicrelations.co.uk

Editor’s note:
Leisure-net Solutions is the leading provider of Customer Insight, Business Intelligence and Consultation services to the UK’s active leisure, fitness and cultural services industries. Leisure-net helps leading industry organisations, local authorities and Trusts, as well as private sector operators and suppliers, to understand their customers’ and clients’ needs and aspirations, and to deliver innovative service and health improvement initiatives.

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