BASC showcases benefits of shooting in government sports inquiry

BASC has told a government inquiry how shooting can help to get more people active, reduce social isolation and promote personal wellbeing while encouraging engagement with the natural environment.

In a detailed 10-page submission to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee inquiry into the social impact of participation in culture and sport, BASC recommended that regional centres of excellence for shooting sports be developed across the UK so that promising shooters could be identified and coached in a consistent way to build a 'pipeline of talent'.

Dr Conor O'Gorman, BASC's policy development manager, said: "Shooting is probably unique as a recreational activity in the many ways that participants of all ages and abilities can take part on an equal footing regardless of gender and background. It contributes not only to personal wellbeing but also benefits and shapes the natural environment and supports livelihoods and local communities across the UK.

“Through the efforts of its staff and volunteers, BASC is leading the way in increasing participation in and awareness of shooting though a wide range of activities including ladies and Young Shots events, coaching at shows and jamborees, educational events for students, game cooking and so on; the list is long and we have detailed all of this in our inquiry submission"

Kate Ives, BASC's business intelligence manager, said: "Our evidence shows how shooting supports the key themes of the inquiry, including social mobility, health, education, community engagement and diversity.

"The inquiry also encouraged feedback on how the government could build a pipeline of talent and we put forward the case for regional centres of excellence."

More information on the personal value of shooting can be found here: https://basc.org.uk/the-personal-value-of-shooting/