FSEM on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
The Faculty of Sport and Exercise Medicine UK (FSEM) is committed to promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) across every aspect of Sport and Exercise Medicine (SEM) in the United Kingdom. The Faculty’s goal is to ensure that all FSEM members, fellows and staff experience a welcoming, respectful and supportive environment that values diversity and prioritises inclusivity for all.
The Faculty has recently updated its EDI position statement, reinforcing a commitment to the promotion of these values within SEM. As part of our ongoing strategy (2022-2025), FSEM integrated EDI principles across its operations, emphasising the importance of diversity within its membership, administrative and leadership roles. This update highlights the Faculty’s initiative to measure and enhance good medical practice related to EDI, including the 2024 EDI Survey Report. This commitment is also evident in the Faculty’s collaboration with other organisations around the world, which contribute to strengthening inclusivity within SEM in the UK.
The FSEM EDI principles include the following:
Commitment to Equity: FSEM is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst the SEM workforce (including our membership) at all levels. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated with respect and fairness, in accordance with the UK Equality Act 2010 (Equality and Human Rights Commission, 2021).
Promoting Inclusion: This principle forms the core of our EDI approach. The Faculty is determined to create an inclusive culture where all individuals feel respected, are treated fairly, and can achieve their full potential. FSEM is dedicated to building an inclusive curriculum that reflects the diversity of the SEM community and addresses the health disparities in the populations we serve.
Enhancing Diversity: FSEM recognises the value of a diverse membership and leadership and recognises that diversity at all levels enriches the profession. The Faculty is committed to strategies that aim to increase diversity within its membership, administrative and leadership teams and decision-making processes.
Future Action Plan:
Recruitment and Retention: Provide guidance on recruitment and retention strategies that attract a diverse range of candidates and promote equal opportunities for growth and advancement across SEM in the UK.
Education and Training: Signpost on EDI training opportunities for the FSEM membership and staff to promote their understanding of EDI principles and highlight their importance for professional good medical practice.
Research and Advocacy: Support research that addresses disparities in healthcare and advocates for future FSEM policy changes that promote equity in healthcare for all.
Partnerships: Maintain and grow collaborations with like-minded organisations globally to promote EDI principles and working practices within the wider healthcare community.
Monitoring and Evaluation: FSEM will regularly monitor and evaluate its EDI initiatives and strategies to assess their effectiveness and adjust these, as required, in both short and long term. The Faculty is committed to transparency and will regularly update on its progress and challenges, ensuring that its membership, stakeholders and partners on its journey towards an enhanced EDI landscape in SEM remain well informed.
Conclusion
The Faculty’s commitment to EDI is a foundation of its mission to advance the SEM specialty. By embracing diversity and ensuring inclusivity in SEM, FSEM aims to enhance the well-being of all individuals and communities it serves long-term..
Contact Information
For more information on the Faculty’s EDI policies, or to get involved, please contact the EDI Committee at membership@fsem.ac.uk.