British Athletics can confirm that the election process for seven new members to join the British Athletics Athletes’ Commission is now open, and nominations are welcomed prior to the deadline on Friday 6 September.

Since its formation in 2017, the initial cohort of 12 members and four ex-officio members abide by the principle of striving to promote a healthy and productive relationship between the athletes the Commission represent, and the National Governing Body.

For seven members their initial two-year term has come to an end, although they are all eligible to continue their work by standing again, however, there is also an exciting opportunity for new members to bring new ideas to the forum and continue the work the Commission have carried out so far.

To be eligible for nomination, applicants must be a current or former athlete having competed for British Athletics in the last six years. The Commission is committed to diversity and inclusivity to reflect the sport, so there are requirements of composition for those members elected which are laid out in the Terms of Reference here.

The current Chair of the Athletes’ Commission, Hannah England, commented:

“We would welcome all athletes that can bring a broad perspective of the current athletics landscape. All members are expected to be engaged, open minded and innovative, and be prepared to work collaboratively both within the Commission and with British Athletics.

“As a group, we have been working to establish ourselves in the governance landscape of our sport. It has been great to be welcomed in by so many sectors of British Athletics, including the Board, allowing us to build strong relationships and effectively present the athlete perspective at a level that can drive development and change.

“Personally, being Chair of the Athletes’ Commission has been a massive privilege. Athletics has given me so many wonderful experiences and I’m passionate about ensuring this is the same for other athletes in our sport. It’s been great to learn more about sports governance and try and effectively communicate the athlete perspective in this environment. I look forward to seeing the nominations in the coming weeks.”

Sarah Rowell, a member on the UK Athletics Board, added:

“Since its inception in 2017, the Athletes’ Commission and its individual members have helped ensure that British Athletics both regularly hears the views and ideas of athletes, as well as providing a source of knowledge to tap into when considering key topics. Having members attend selection meetings, input to discussions around selection policies, ensure the views of athletes are better heard, as well as attend Board and other meetings, has brought a welcome check and challenge from the perspective of arguably the focus group of the sport – the athletes.

“In its short life so far, it has become an integral and essential part of helping shape decisions made for the sport going forward and I would really encourage anyone with an interest in helping to influence the governance of athletics to stand for election.”

Full Terms of Reference for Commission membership and the self nomination form can be found here. 

Nominations are open until Friday 6 September, and following the election procedure, the induction of new members will be in mid-October.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please email athletescommission@britishathletics.org.uk