Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Culture, Media, Sport Select Committee, emphasizes that numerous obstacles hinder young girls in England from participating in sports. To address this issue, she advocates for the elimination of the 3pm TV blackout for women's football.
The Committee's Game On report reveals a mixed picture of community and school sports in meeting the needs of the English population, with particular challenges for school-age girls. The report proposes practical recommendations to boost activity levels and participation, including the removal of broadcasting restrictions on women's football during the 3pm Saturday slot, as evidence suggests that broadcasting women's sports inspires and motivates girls to be active. Currently, UK legislation prohibits the live broadcast of football matches that kick off at 3pm on Saturdays. The Committee also urges the government to enact legislation requiring councils and housing associations to remove 'No Ball Games' signs from public spaces, allowing children to reclaim these areas for play.
Dame Caroline notes that despite the nation's love for sports, many barriers prevent people from actively participating, particularly girls who often drop out of school sports upon reaching puberty. The Committee recommends a range of measures, including removing the 3pm blackout for women's football, to show women's games on free-to-air TV, and implementing a more inclusive PE curriculum in schools that prioritizes enjoyment and comfort. Other proposals include providing better training for PE teachers, rethinking kit and uniform policies to prioritize comfort and inclusivity, and committing to stable funding for school and community sports.
The report highlights that the UK trails behind other European countries in terms of investment in sports and recreation, recommending an increase from 0.3% to at least 0.6% of total government expenditure over the next decade.