The Leeds Hunters were established as a rugby club in which all men regardless of whether they are gay, bisexual, trans or straight can be comfortable being themselves whilst accessing an amazing sport. As the club grows by offering touch rugby, our membership will be open to adults of all sexualities and gender identities.

Our focus will always be on the inclusion of people to rugby or touch rugby who identify using a term that describes a minority sexual orientation or gender identity. We are not exclusive and warmly welcome people of any background, identity or sexuality to be members of our club and participate in the activities available to them.

We recognise that labels used to describe aspects of people’s identities (gender identity, sexual orientation, ability of those for people of a minority ethnic, religious or racial background) are not always universally liked so we have to be sensitive in the use of this language.

Ben Ryder - Chair

The Leeds Hunters Diversity Action Plan 2021-2022

1. We will transform our club to be more than non-discriminatory but one that is anti-discrimination in nature.

2. We will have clear guidance that allows for conversation on matters of diversity, equality and inclusion but ensures that this is always conducted in a respectful way.

3. We will ensure our members know about club policy and procedures regarding discrimination, offer a number of reporting methods and we will publish to our members relevant information about complaints of this nature and the outcomes.

4. We will work with other organisations to improve access to rugby for people from minority communities, but particularly those who also identify as LGBTQ+.

5. We will hold learning events that promote the inclusion of minority groups so that understanding an appreciation improves.

6. We will work to include the representation of our diverse club on our club committee.

7. We will work to promote people with under-represented intersectional identities as role models in our club.

8. We will adopt the Progress Flag in place of the Pride Flag as a visible sign of our commitment to including trans+ people and people who are from minority racial, religious or ethnic groups.

9. We will support the development of a local rugby team that provides a safe space for all gay, bi and lesbian women and trans women can access rugby.

10. We will work to ensure that our club is warm and welcoming of the needs of trans+ players and improve their experience of sport.

11. We will monitor and improve our representation of people from minority ethnic backgrounds.

12. We will work with mixed ability rugby clubs to ensure that LGBT+ people who have a disability which prevents participation in the rugby we play are made to feel included in clubs able to offer rugby that caters for their needs.