Staff WriterEngland Golf’s “Respect in Golf” initiative has just scored a major victory on the global stage, as the International Working Group (IWG) on Women and Sport becomes the movement’s newest signatory.
Respect in Golf is fast becoming the benchmark for equity and inclusion, challenging long-held perceptions and ensuring every player feels at home on the course.
A Global Champion Joins the Movement
The IWG—renowned as the world’s largest network advancing equity and equality for women and girls in sport—has formally thrown its support behind England Golf’s commitment to fairness.
“As a signatory of IWG’s Brighton plus Helsinki Declaration, we know firsthand that England Golf are committed to achieving equity for women and girls in the sport.
Their ‘Respect in Golf’ movement is testament to this, and it was my pleasure to sign the pledge on behalf of IWG,” said Lisa O’Keefe MBE, Secretary General at IWG.
IWG’s backing not only cements Respect in Golf as a global standard, but also amplifies a message that golf is a game for everyone—regardless of background, age or ability.
“We’re excited to work alongside England Golf to amplify their message that golf is a game for everyone and to help make golf more welcoming and accessible to individuals from all backgrounds.
We will also promote their brilliant work to our network of networks as an example of best practice for others to learn from.”
England Golf’s Growing Influence
Since launching, England Golf’s movement has swept across the nation, with all 60 counties and 1,735 affiliated clubs signing up to drive inclusivity and stamp out discrimination.
These key milestones highlight:
- From coast to coast, all 60 counties and 1735 affiliated golf clubs have signed the England Golf Terms of Affiliation
- Focus on accessibility: Programs and partnerships designed to welcome under-represented groups.
- Zero-tolerance stance: Clear policies against bullying, harassment and any form of discrimination.
“Respect in Golf runs through everything we do and we’re thrilled that organisations both inside and outside of golf are supporting our movement,” explained Ben White, England Golf’s Communications & Data Director.
“Long-held perceptions of the game really are changing, as we are seeing more and more people get into the game at various ages and abilities and from different backgrounds.
We are making the game more inclusive and accessible to all, which is helping us to drive participation numbers and engagement.”
Why This Matters to the Modern Golfer
Today’s golf community is more diverse and dynamic than ever. By embracing Respect in Golf, clubs and organisations send a clear signal: everyone is welcome. That means:
- Female golfers can play without fear of bias.
- Young newcomers feel supported from their very first swing.
- Veterans of the game help lead by example in fostering an inclusive club culture.
Respect in Golf isn’t just a slogan—it’s a practical guide for clubs to review their policies, training programmes and event-day protocols.
As a result, more enthusiasts are discovering the joy of golf in an environment rooted in respect and camaraderie.
Looking Ahead
Armed with the IWG’s endorsement, England Golf is gearing up to export Respect in Golf to every corner of the globe—now it’s over to clubs and associations everywhere to sign the pledge and help build a game where fairness and belonging feel entirely second nature.
For more on the International Working Group and its mission to advance equity in sport, click here.
By integrating powerful partnerships, clear pledges and unwavering leadership, England Golf’s Respect in Golf continues to reshape the landscape—one fairway at a time.
