All 1,735 golf clubs and 60 county unions across England have earned Respect in Golf accreditation by completing the England Golf Terms of Affiliation.
To achieve this status, clubs and counties have either implemented or updated their equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) policies, which explicitly reject discrimination. They’ve also aligned their disciplinary procedures to ensure fair and consistent handling of any issues. This certification complements the existing SafeGolf accreditation, creating a comprehensive framework for safe and inclusive participation in golf.
Launched in 2023, the Respect in Golf initiative aims to make golf more accessible and welcoming to everyone, encouraging participation at all levels of the sport.
England Golf Chief Executive Jeremy Tomlinson celebrated the achievement: “Our England Golf Support Team have worked tirelessly to support clubs and counties across the country in 2024 to become Respect in Golf accredited. Respect in Golf runs through everything we do on a daily basis, so it’s a huge achievement for our sport to have all clubs and counties in agreement and on board with what we are collectively trying to achieve.
“We have made, and continue to make, great strides in not only increasing participation throughout underrepresented groups, but also addressing and changing long-held perceptions of golf. By continuing to educate people about Respect in Golf and working alongside our fellow Home Nations, industry partners and affiliated clubs, we remain committed to driving the message that there is no place for any form of discrimination in golf. Golf belongs to everyone and all who play, and all who aspire to play, must have an equal opportunity to do so.
“We embrace our responsibility to inspire the most welcoming environment for all to enjoy our sport, and our role to prioritise that the safety and integrity of all in our sport is protected.”
Beyond traditional golf clubs, England Golf expanded its support in 2024 to include facilities like driving ranges, simulators, and adventure golf courses. Over 80 such venues have already affiliated, working with the England Golf Support Team to attract newcomers to the sport while focusing on promotion, ED&I, and safeguarding measures.
