Get to know Sophie Hancocks, Table Tennis Wales ED&I Champion
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (ED&I) are at the heart of everything we do at Table Tennis Wales, from our clubs and players to our volunteers, coaches, staff and Board.
As the organisation’s ED&I Champion, Sophie Hancocks represents Table Tennis Wales’ commitment to embedding inclusion throughout.
Appointing an ED&I Champion was a strategic step to bring together a key voice to influence inclusive practice and ensure that decision-making reflects our diverse community.
ED&I, therefore, is prioritised at every level, ensuring that inclusion is front and centre in all Board discussions and strategic planning — not an afterthought, but a foundation.
The role embodies our dedication to listening, learning, and leading with inclusion in mind.
“I, and the role of ED&I Champion, represent our Board’s commitment to embedding inclusion at the highest level of the organisation,” commented Sophie. “ED&I is not just discussed, but prioritised in every Board meeting and every decision we make.
Sophie Hancocks, Table Tennis Wales Board Member and ED&I Champion
“This prioritisation guides our strategic direction, supports our team in building inclusive spaces and cultures, and helps ensure everyone — regardless of background — has the opportunity to thrive, succeed, and enjoy the sport.”
Table Tennis Wales is also proudly singed up to the Moving to Inclusion Framework, a sector-wide commitment to driving long-term change in sport.
Joining the framework helps us:
- Assess and improve our inclusive practices
- Celebrate what we’re doing well
- Learn and grow through expert support and mentoring
- Strengthen representation and equity across the sport
“It reinforces our commitment,” confirmed Sophie, “and helps us focus on continuous improvement, address inequalities, and build on the inclusive practices already in place.
“It’s not just a statement of intent — it’s a structured pathway to making lasting, meaningful change.”
The Framework represents a crucial opportunity for Table Tennis Wales to access valuable support and mentorship that will help us evaluate and evolve our inclusive practices.
“It also encourages us to build more inclusive experiences for everyone,” continued Sophie, “from staff and volunteers to players and coaches, while also striving for better diversity in representation and leadership across the sport.
“ED&I shouldn’t be treated as a separate initiative,” she concluded. “It must be embedded into every aspect of an organisation, creating a stronger, more representative, and more resilient organisation.”