Inclusive Language Guide from Active Lincolnshire

As part of its commitment to championing Equality and Diversity, Active Lincolnshire has created an inclusive language guide to promote and encourage best practice in this area. The guide is intended to support the sport and physical activity sector to communicate using language that is respectful of diversity and makes people feel valued and included.

The guide gives suggested terms that it is best practice to use in the first instance. These terms are grouped under the protected characteristics in line with the Equality Act 2010; Age, Disability, Gender Reassignment, Marriage and Civil Partnership, Race, Religion and belief, Pregnancy and maternity, Sex, Sexual Orientation. The guide also includes a section on why inclusive language is important and advice if you get it wrong.

Inclusive language is a powerful tool for fostering inclusivity, respect and understanding. By consciously choosing our words and being mindful of the impact they have on others, we contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society. Inclusive language is a way of using language that avoids biases, stereotypes and discrimination.

This document is designed to be used as an initial point of guidance; we recognise the importance of adapting language to individual preferences and context.

Please download the document or email Communications@ActiveLincolnshire.com to find out more. You can also read about how Active Lincolnshire won the Diversity and Inclusion Award at the Lincolnshire Business Awards 2025.