Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Culture, Media, Sport Select Committee, emphasizes the need to remove obstacles for young girls to participate in sports, citing the current 3pm TV blackout as a significant hindrance. The Committee's Game On report reveals a mixed picture of community and school sports in England, highlighting particular challenges for school-age girls. To boost participation, the report suggests removing the 3pm Saturday broadcast restriction on women's football, as evidence shows that airing women's sports inspires girls to be more active. The Committee also recommends that councils and housing associations remove 'No Ball Games' signs from public areas to promote play.
Furthermore, the report proposes that schools provide a more inclusive PE curriculum, with at least 2 hours of high-quality physical education per week, and that teachers receive better training. The government is urged to commit to stable funding for school and community sports, with the aim of creating a healthier nation and realizing significant social and economic benefits.