A new report by UK Coaching says Female Volunteer Coaches have dropped from 40% to 30% between 2022 and 2024 (UK Coaching Gender Spotlight Report). This decline comes despite record-breaking participation, attendance, and viewership in women’s sport.
Mums want In but face barriers
- 34% of mums not involved in coaching would like to give it a try
- 83% currently have no involvement in their child’s sport club
- Confidence, lack of sport-specific knowledge, and not knowing where to start are major barriers
Local Action is making a difference. Faversham Strike Force FC launched This Mum Can, an initiative encouraging mums to step into coaching. With support from UK Coaching and former Lioness Anita Asante, the campaign is helping mums gain skills and confidence to lead girls’ grassroots sessions.
Sector response. UK Coaching is developing an action plan to tackle gender inequalities and offers support via its Women in Coaching Hub, which provides resources for women starting their coaching journey.