The Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association (SPATA) and the British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association (BISHTA) have shown a solid commitment to advancing Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) within the wet leisure sector. They have established a dedicated EDI working group tasked with identifying industry challenges and opportunities to support this objective. This group's mission is to develop best practices, provide resources, and foster an inclusive culture that encourages innovation and growth, ensuring everyone can contribute and succeed regardless of background.

A dedicated EDI working group to strengthen commitment to inclusive practices

In 2024, under the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF) leadership, a working group of dedicated individuals committed to promoting supportive and inclusive workplaces was formed. The dedication of its members--Amanda Goddard (AstralPool UK), Dash Ganeson, Jon Herbert (Rockingham Pools), Arun Sarna (Hot Tub Suppliers), David Ramsden (CPC), Chris Hayes (BSPF), and Sallie Leslie-Golding (BSPF)--has been instrumental in advancing the industry's EDI efforts. They have been crucial in driving initiatives, developing plans, and advocating for EDI within the sector.

In August, BSPF President Dyfed Thompson-Smith outlined his plans to enhance industry education and training, emphasising collaboration and advocacy. His commitment to strengthening the BSPF's role in shaping national policies affecting the pool and spa industry underscores his focus on promoting diversity and inclusion. He stated, "Diversity and inclusivity are vital aspects of any organisation, and the British Swimming Pool Federation is committed to fostering a more inclusive environment." By working closely with the EDI working group, the BSPF is implementing policies, communication strategies, and training programs to ensure fair and diverse representation, address barriers to inclusion, and celebrate the diverse backgrounds that contribute to the federation's strength.

SPATA and BISHTA's well-established membership networks span multiple sectors and play a key role in driving real change. Through these networks, Chris Hayes, Managing Director of the BSPF, SPATA, and BISHTA, has collaborated with industry leaders to promote a unified approach to EDI and share best practices. This effort includes promoting training initiatives, encouraging leaders to provide feedback, fostering open dialogue, and sharing tools and resources as part of a cross-industry collaboration to enhance standards and stimulate innovation. These combined efforts ensure that the industry remains at the forefront of advancements, delivering unparalleled value to stakeholders and consumers.

The EDI working group has already made significant progress, including developing the BSPF EDI policy, which SPATA and BISHTA have adopted. This policy and additional EDI resources are available to members through their respective Member Hubs. In July 2024, the group launched a pilot EDI training course facilitated by holistic coach Refeia Zaman. The course offered practical insights into implementing EDI in the workplace.

Attending the session in Andover were BSPF President Dyfed Thompson-Smith (AstralPool UK), SPATA Chair Jon Herbert (Rockingham Pools), David Ramsden (CPC), Luke Griffiths (ISPE), Zac Cheek (STA), Anne Olliver (Certikin), and members of the BSPF team--Chris Hayes, Jan Hardy, Sallie Leslie-Golding, Claire Maguire, and Jenna Patterson. They were joined online by PIP Chair Mark Ramsden (CPC), SPATA Treasurer Dash Ganeson, and Michele Bridle (SPATEX). Following the training, participants provided valuable feedback on further supporting members in understanding this important subject.

Building on the success of this pilot, additional training sessions are scheduled. This initiative underscores the industry's commitment to continuous improvement and inclusivity. The upcoming sessions will strengthen SPATA, BISHTA, and BSPF's positions as leaders in promoting EDI. These efforts are expected to enhance customer relationships and ensure the industry's long-term success.

The EDI working group meets quarterly to evaluate initiatives, discuss EDI-related topics, and address emerging developments. To learn more about the work carried out by SPATA and BISHTA.