CSP Strategic Plan 2013-2015 Final

Strategic Plan 2013 – 2015Sport for life, Sports for all. 1|PageCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

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ContentsRationale of the Local Sport Partnerships ...........................................................................................................................10 Role of the Local Sport Partnerships ...............................................................................................................................11 Functions of the Local Sport Partnership .........................................................................................................................12Context ................................................................................................................................................................................ 13 Our Partners .................................................................................................................................................................14 Staff ..............................................................................................................................................................................15 Finance ......................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Changing Context .........................................................................................................................................................15 Review .............................................................................................................................................................................17 Information .......................................................................................................................................................................17 Education .........................................................................................................................................................................17 Implementation ................................................................................................................................................................17 Achievements to Date ......................................................................................................................................................19The Future...........................................................................................................................................................................22Our Strategic Plan ...............................................................................................................................................................25 Our Vision, Mission and Values .......................................................................................................................................25 Outcomes ......................................................................................................................................................................... The Sports Landscape and Our Objectives ....................................................................................................................... Theme 1: Participation .....................................................................................................................................................28 Theme 2: Sports and Activity Pathways..........................................................................................................................31 Theme 3: Communications ..............................................................................................................................................36 Theme 4: Structures and Administration ..........................................................................................................................39Appendices .........................................................................................................................................................................45 3|PageCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

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Message from Mr. John Treacy, Chief Executive, Irish Sports CouncilThe Irish Sports Council is very proud of the national network of Local Sports Partnerships. Each one is making acontribution to the important goal of increasing participation in sport and physical activity throughout Ireland.The Council endorses the strategic planning process as an essential tool in developing sporting organisations. A strategicplan can bring many benefits to an organisation and has been of proven benefit to many LSPs in recent years. It is ofparticular value in this era when there is a need to get the maximum value from every resource invested by Cavan LSP.The Council therefore welcomes and endorses the new strategic plan of Cavan Local Sports Partnership.In the development of an effective strategy the process is just as important as the final document. The process ofconsultation, communication can be a time consuming job but is invaluable in building a consensus on the right wayforward for sport in Cavan.The document identifies what is required to ensure that the LSP remains an essential part of the infrastructure of sport inthe county. On behalf of the Irish Sports Council I would like to congratulate Cavan LSP on another job well done and welook forward to assisting the organisation with the implementation phase in the future. 5|PageCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Message from the Chairperson of the Cavan Sports PartnershipAs chairperson I am delighted to introduce the second strategy of Cavan Sports Partnership 2013-2015 “Sport for Life,Sport for All”. This plan is a result of review and consultation with the entire community of clubs, community and voluntarysector and local and statutory agencies with regard for sport in Cavan.Significant progress has been made to date in advancing the goal of Cavan Sports Partnership towards increasedparticipation in sports and physical activity. CSP has worked hard to deliver quality programmes in schools, clubs andcommunity settings over the past 4 years and I would like to acknowledge the enormous investment that is made in thecounty by the many volunteers.One of the major successes of the sports partnership has also been the positive relations with other local agencies withregard for sport in Cavan. The ongoing development of these partnerships will continue to support the work of the sportspartnership in our more challenging times.I would like to thank the Board of Directors and staff of Cavan Sports Partnership for the ongoing commitment and work.On a final note I commend all involved in the preparation of this plan and look forward to working with the sportspartnership on the implementation of this plan which aims to enhance the quality and availability of access to sports andphysical activity in the county.Tony Brady, Chairperson Cavan Sports Partnership 6|Page Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Message from the Coordinator of the Cavan Sports PartnershipAs County Sports Co-ordinator I am delighted to see this second strategic plan for sport and physical activity in Cavan. During theprocess of developing this plan we consulted widely with sporting organisations within the county, those on a national level who havean agenda for sport in Cavan, community and voluntary groups, agencies and board members and I would like to thank all those whogave their time to this process. Their expertise, knowledge and commitment to sport and physical activity in the county have playeda major role in guiding us in our current and future work.Our second plan expands the themes of the first Strategic Plan which was developed while the sports partnership was very new tothe county. This plan commits CSP to a process of continuing to be dedicated to our central theme of increasing participation in thecounty, in particular with those people who need it most, while moving into a more co-ordinated and leadership role which will allowsupport and development of opportunities for more people engaging in sport. The plan allows for the further development ofparticipation pathways for people to ensure they continue with lifelong physical activity engagement.I would like to thank the Irish Sports Council for their continued support, guidance and advice not only during this process but also onan on-going basis. I would also like to thank Cavan County Council for their continue support and engagement with the sportspartnership.I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the key role that stakeholders and local agencies play in the work anddevelopment of the sports partnership. In what are becoming more challenging times it is essential that we continue to invest inthese partnerships in order to access support and resources which ensure that we continue to deliver high quality outputs.Central to the success of the sports partnership and sport in the county is the outstanding commitment and dedication of volunteersin Cavan and we are widely encouraged by their enthusiasm. I would like to thank all volunteers for their role in providing sports topeople in the county.I would like to thank also Humphrey Murphy, ILC Consultants who facilitated this plan. Finally, I would like to acknowledge and thankthe staff of the sports partnership, whose work is central to delivering on our objectives, Blaithin O Reilly, Sports Administrator &Dean McElroy, Sports Inclusion Development Officer.Nadine McCormilla, Sports Co-ordinator 7|PageCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Introduction “Sport means all forms of physical activity which through casual or organised participation, aim at expressing or improving physical fitness and mental well-being forming social relationships or obtaining results in competition at all levels.” Council of Europe Definition of Sport, 2001.The Cavan Sports Partnership (CSP hereafter), aligns itself with this definition of sport.Sports have an important role in our community; they provide a means of interacting between individuals and groups,support our physical and mental wellbeing and add a bounce to our step.For most people sports are about recreation and positive lifestyle activities such as walking in the forest, swimming withfriends, dancing or going to the gym. The challenge however is that while most of us are spectators of sports, not enoughof us participate. This lack of participation may be due to external factors such as a lack of awareness or a difficulty inaccessing sports. There are also internal barriers to participating such as not having found a sport which we like, or ashortage of time or financial resources.The solutions to these participation barriers vary and include, changing the way we think about sports, a greater variety ofsports, altering the times or places where sports are on offer, or just making sports more visible.CSP’s first Strategic Plan “Sport for Life, Sport for All, 2009 – 2012”, identified a pathway for our development. Throughthis initial plan we have created a structure, a delivery programme and a framework to manage our on-goingresponsibilities. This second phase strategic plan includes both continuity and a response to the changed economic 8|Page Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

circumstances which have impacted on the County Cavan community. Furthermore the experience, competence andimpact of the CSP have grown, and our second Strategic Plan includes a heightened coordination and leadership role forCSP in the development of sports and physical activity in County Cavan. 9|PageCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Rationale of the Local Sport PartnershipsThe role of the CSP is to encourage and enable more people to do more with sport. We do this with the support andguidance of the Irish Sports Council and most importantly through our Board partnership and the sports providers,communities and clubs of the County.The Irish Sports Council in its Statement of Strategy 2012 – 2014 emphasises the importance of increasing rates ofparticipation in sport and physical and the need for “multi-sectoral efforts involving agencies from education, transport,environment, health and sporting bodies' at national and local level and across private and voluntary groups.” CSP is thedriving force behind this multi-sectoral or Partnership development of sports in County Cavan.The Irish Sports Council have identified the need for Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs), to deliver recreational sport tolocal people by: -  Creating and implementing plans for long term local sports development  Establishing a sustainable structure to assist all those involved in local sports development  Delivering sports participation projects and programmes particularly for target groups –  Establishing networks at a local level and liaising with existing initiatives “Local Sports Partnerships understand best what is required in their local areas. On this basis they can generate the best results and greatest impact from the available resources. The Irish Sports Council's role is to advise, assist and monitor the progression of the Sports Partnership.” Irish Sports Council, Statement of Strategy 2012 – 2014. 10 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Role of the Local Sport PartnershipsThe key aims of the LSP are to increase participation in sport, and to ensure that local resources are used to best effect.Some of the outcomes sought are:  Club development  Volunteer training  Enhanced planning of sport at local level  Local directories of sports bodies & facilities  School, club, community and national governing body (NGB) links  Increased levels of local participation, especially amongst specific target groups such as older people, girls & women, people with disabilities, unemployed people, and those who live in identified disadvantaged communitiesCSP pursues these aims via its delivery of national and locally developed sports and physical activity programmes. 11 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Functions of the Local Sport PartnershipThe three main functions of the LSPs are: - 1. Information - establish a consultative forum, initiate research, compile a sports directory and database, and identify needs and resources to form the basis of local planning 2. Education - provide quality opportunities for education and training at local level, provide training courses targeting volunteers, and provide access to sport specific courses through the National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of sport 3. Implementation - develop a strategic plan for local sport, appoint a professional administrator, secure related support services, select participation programmes for LSPs modified to suit local needs, increase the impact of national programmes delivered locally, market and promote sport. 12 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

ContextLocal Sports Partnerships have a national context and responsibility, and each individual sports partnership also has alocal responsibility and structure. The following is an outline of this national and local context.29% of residents in the republic of Ireland were categorised as having a sedentary lifestyle, while only 24% had highlevels of physical activity.1 CSP fosters a culture of physical activity through sports participation, in order that the peopleof Cavan can benefit from the social, physical and mental benefits of sports participation. For most people sportsparticipation is recreational rather than competitive and so CSP is primarily involved in creating and supportingopportunities for recreational sports participation.Additional information on the minimum physical activity requirements for different age groups is provided in Appendix 2.As sports participation benefits everyone at every stage of life, it is our role to support sports participation for the entireCounty Cavan community across the different life stages. However we recognise that some sectors of this communitydeserve specific support, in particular:  Disadvantaged Communities  Women and girls  Older people  People with a disability  The unemployed  Young people and children1 SLAN, Survey of Lifestyle, Attitudes and Nutrition in Ireland, 2007. 13 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Our PartnersThe responsibility for this mission is shared with our Partners who form the Board of the CSP:  Cavan County Council  The Health Service Executive  County Cavan Vocational Education Committee  Third Level representative  Breffni Integrated  Community and Voluntary Forum  Disability Representative  Primary School Representative  Sports Forum Representatives  Elected Representatives 14 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

StaffOur partners provide the resources, guidance, cooperation and oversight which structure the work of the CSP staff.  Nadine Mc Cormilla: Sports Coordinator  Blaithin O Reilly: Sports Administrator  Dean McElroy: Social Inclusion Disability OfficerFinanceCSP is financed from two key sources: 1. The Irish Sports Council provides Core funding (CSP staff and innovative local initiatives), and Programme funding (high priority, targeted initiatives identified and promoted by CSP). 2. CSP is comprised of a number of local Partners who provide “match funding” of 50% of the total costs of operating the CSP. This funding is provided “in kind” through support resources such as office space and administration, and through direct financial support. Cavan County Council is the primary source of this match funding. 15 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Changing ContextThe Irish Sports Monitor 2011 Annual Report identified a number of changes in sports participation in Ireland:  Participation in sports has risen from 30.6% in 2008 to 34% in 2009 and 46% in 20112  Participation in team sports has remained steady  Participation in individual sports such as personal exercise, running, cycling and swimming have risen considerably  Increases in participation are strongest amongst the younger (aged under 25) and the older (aged 55 or older) age groups  There has been a notable increase in participation amongst the unemployed  Exercise is now the most popular “sport” in Ireland, with 11% having participated in it within the previous 7 days. One in ten have participated in swimming  Individual sports show stronger rises in participation than team sports  Only a small minority of those participating in some of the most popular sports are a member of a club associated with that sportThis changing context is due in part to the impact of the nationwide network of Local Sports Partnerships, and is also anindicator of where future CSP resources need to be allocated.Strategic ChangeThe actions outlined in the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government’s Action Programme for LocalGovernment, “Putting People First”, is likely to lead to some changes in local authority structures and consequently thestructure within which CSP operates. This strategic plan acknowledges and has taken into account these potentialchanges.2 20 minutes of sport a week by people over 16 years as the standard. 16 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

ReviewIn 2008, representatives from a variety of statutory bodies, organisations and groups, with a responsibility or interest insports in County Cavan, formed a partnership with a goal of increasing participation in sports and physical activity in theCounty. The CSP is an organisation which combines the expertise, resources and vision of these component Partnersand the core funding and direction of the Irish Sports Council.Since 2009, CSP have undertaken a range of actions and initiatives to support participation in sports within the County,especially amongst those who are less likely to participate.Information  Our original formal consultation forum placed additional pressure on already busy volunteers and so we use events such as sports seminars and programmes (funding support workshops and Lucozade workshops), to formally and informally consult with the various sports clubs and volunteers in the Country.  Our sports directory includes a listing of most of the sports and physical activity clubs and facilities in County Cavan, and we work with these providers in order to keep this database relevant and updated each year.  As part of the County Development Board, we engage with Cavan County Council in order to identify the sports facility resources required within our communities.EducationThe people, who give up their time in order to provide sports and physical activity opportunities for our children and adults,deserve not just our respect but also our support. CSP provides training for volunteers in order that they can coach withconfidence in an ethical and quality focused manner.ImplementationSince our commencement in 2008, CSP has employed a sports coordinator, a sports administrator and a part-time SocialInclusion Disability Officer. CSP has developed and delivered a wide range of programmes and activities and hasintegrated within the sports network of the County. In so doing we have increased the number of opportunities,awareness and access and support for sports and physical activity participation in our County. 17 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

We also have encountered challenges; we have limited resources and cannot be all things to all people; we sometimeshave to say no if there is insufficient commitment or merit in a project and we have quietly stepped back on projects asthey became self-sustaining. 18 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Achievements to Date Flagship AchievementsThe first 4 years of the CSP, includes many achievements. Through ourstrategic themes and actions, we have increased participation,education and training and examples of this include:Participation:  Participation opportunities for over 500 women in the county.  Participation opportunities for 200 + older adults.  Participation opportunities for 150 adults and children with disabilities.  Delivered an active communities project which targeted disadvantaged older adults, teenage girls and women.  Supported local club links with National Governing Bodies & Rural Development Organisations.  Provided small grants totally €36,000 to sports clubs in Cavan.Facilities  Published a list of sports and recreation facilities in Cavan which are accessible to sports clubs.  Worked with clubs and National Governing Bodies to support shared resources.  Worked with Cavan County Council to secure funding for better sport and physical activity facilities in the County.  Secured €60,000 Sports Capital Funding to support the development of outdoor lawn bowls green.Networking & Awareness  Strategic Plan 2008-2012 adopted by relevant bodies.  Worked with relevant agencies to promote the benefits of sports in the county.  Created partnership outside of CSP board members to ensure CSP supported all bodies involved in sports development in the county.Education & Training  Delivery of a range of training programme to over 800 coaches, volunteers, teachers and child care practitioners in the county.  Developed and delivered sports participation programmes based on the expressed need in the county. 19 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Communication & Marketing  Developed, updated and maintained the CSP website – which had 11,589 ‘hits’ in 2012.  Developed and managed the CSP Facebook site as a means of providing on-going and timely information on sports events in the County.  We publish and distribute a bi-annual newsletter.  We provide a regular ezine update to 700 email contacts.Governance  Implemented our 2009-2012 Strategy.  Secured funding of €63,274 for physical activity programmes (additional to ISC funding).  Regularly monitor and evaluate the CSP strategy and programmes.  Publish annual reports on the actions and impact of the CSP.A key responsibility of the CSP is that we secure funding, develop and deliver appropriate sports and physical activityprogrammes for the County Cavan Community. To date CSP has delivered a number of national programmes in CountyCavan and have also developed and delivered a range of programmes in response to local sports and physical activityneeds.  Buntús programme for increasing physical activity levels among pre-school and primary school children in Cavan.  Code of Ethics: CSP training for code of ethics, child protection and good practice for Children’s Sport.  Girls in Action: offers alternative sports to inactive teenage girls so that they will increase their participation in sport and physical activity.  Older and Active programme promotes physical activity and active living among older people in Cavan  Active Leadership is designed to provide trained, knowledgeable an enthusiastic community based physical activity leader.  Children’s Officer Training fulfils the requirement for every club involved with children and young people to appoint a Children’s Officer.  Active Communities is a programme of physical activity delivered in the RAPID area  Women in Sport initiative are delivered in partnership with the Women in Sport organisation and it aims to increase the number of women who take part regularly in sports and physical activity. 20 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

 Peace III Together Through Games Sports Programme has been funded from the Cavan County Council Peace Programme, in order to deliver a cross border, cross community games programme Be Active After Schools Activity Programme is a physical activity initiative, which has been introduced to a number of schools in Cavan in September 2010. Walking in Cavan encourages the use of the natural landscape as an affordable and accessible physical activity. Fitwise is a physical activity and healthy eating programme for men and womenAppendix 1 provides an overview of the participation in these programmes over the past three years 21 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

The Future Fitwise Fitwise was a programme which targeted participants who wanted to becomeCounty Cavan is responding to the current economic more physically active and nutritionally aware, in order to enjoy the benefits of achallenges at an agency, community and individual healthier lifestyle. The programme did not focus on weight loss, however atlevel. CSP has a leadership role in continuing to make some locations a pre and post programme weight measurement was taken.the case for sports as being part of the solution. ProgrammeCSP is aware of and acknowledges, that there will be The fitwise programme was delivered over an 8 week period at various venueson-going challenges and changes at a local and national throughout Cavan, beginning on the 9th January 2012 and was open to bothlevel which will affect how we work. These will not alter adult males and females. 176 people participated in the programme over theour sought outcomes, but they may alter our structures. five venues, an average of 35 registrants at each venue. In 4 of the venues 88% of 139 registrants were female and the fitwise venues coordinated through the local GAA clubs, had the highest uptake of men.CSP will continue to operate within a National and localapproach in order to sustain and increase participation insports and physical activity.The National programmes of the Irish Sports Council Reviewcontinue to provide the core of our activities; our Board On finishing the programme participants completed a questionnaire whichPartners provide our local strategic direction and identified that:resources. Local clubs, organisations and individualsprovide our network and partners in the delivery,  The majority of participants had increased the amount of vigorouscoordination and leadership of sports and physical activity they did weeklyactivity in County Cavan.  There was an overall increase in those doing moderate at activityWe will continue to encourage the involvement of all of sessions for an hour or more and a reduction in daily sitting timeCounty Cavan’s residents in sports and in particular werecognise the importance of encouraging and enabling  There was an increase in the number of walking days in a week and in the length of time spent walking each day by participants Almost all of the respondents said they had increased the amount of exercise they did since starting the programme. The top three barriers to participation were cited as 1) not local, 2) childcare, 3) cost. 22 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

participation amongst; Line Dancing Evaluation: Line dancing was introduced to the ‘Get Active, Stay  Disadvantaged Communities Active 50+’ programme in Cavan by the Cavan Sports  Women and girls partnership through the Go for Life funding measure  Older people of the National programme for sport and physical  People with a disability activity for older people 2011.  The unemployed  Young people The aim of the line dancing is to provide older adults with an enjoyable form of physical activity and the opportunity to interact with people. In February 2012, line dancing for older adults was provided in five areas once a week for five weeks.As we move into the next stage of our development, we recognise that Over the course of the five weeks there was anwhile participation in sports and physical activity has increased, there are average of a 70% weekly attendance.still large numbers of individuals who could play more and those whodon’t play at all. We will acknowledge and celebrate those who areregular participants in sports and physical activity; however our centralrole is to motivate and enable those who don’t participate, or who needto do more.We will continue to be involved in the direct delivery of programmes, A post programme review indicated that the majoritywhile increasing our role in coordinating and leading sports and physical of participants enjoyed the sessions “a lot”, and manyactivity development in the County. participants reported that it was good way to meet new people. The programme culminated with all groups coming together to take part in a “Hoedown” with participants from all 5 communities. 23 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

At this second stage of our development we will increase awareness of the CSP role and programmes amongst thegeneral public, and in particular amongst our target groups. We will achieve this through the development of the CSPbrand, increased publicity and a greater presence in mass participation events.The value of the CSP is in our capacity to increase and sustain participation in sports and physical activity. We will continue toresearch and demonstrate our impact through both the individual success stories of our participants and the collection andanalysis of activity programme data.Combining our future with challengesCSP acknowledge that we are working within a changing economic environment with its own challenges which may affect how wedeliver on our objectives. We will respond to these challenges by ensuring we are effective in the work that we do and havestrong relationship with the partners that we work with. The development of Annual Operational Plans will allow us to identify thestrategic actions that will be advanced based on a strong awareness of all resources available to us. 24 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Our Strategic PlanIn order to make sport “every day and for everyone”, we recognise the need to clearly define and map out what we mustdo and how we will do this. This strategic plan for 2013 to 2015, takes into account the changing circumstances of ourcommunity, it recognises the value and role of our partners, it identifies a route for us to deliver our sports participationmandate and makes other people and organisations aware of our shared interests and responsibilities.Our Vision, Mission and Values What our values mean:Our vision recognises that sport is for everyone at every life stage:  Sport for most people is about physical activity and for a minority it is about competition.Sport for life, Sports for all.  Sport is more than the mainstream, sport also includesThe Mission of the CSP is in three parts: minority, quirky and unusual activities. 1. More activity and more people.  All of the residents of County Cavan deserve our support 2. Support the sports providers. through sports, in order to be all that they can be. 3. Get more and do more with sports resources  Sports have a role in community building and in includingThe way in which we undertake this mission is guided by our those on the margins of communities.values which are:  We share our knowledge, network and expertise with anyone who can use it positively.  Diversity  Social Inclusion  People in our community have freewill and personal  Promoting Partnership responsibility and we will work with them to identify and  Equality provide appropriate sports opportunities as well as  Respect encourage and build their capacity to participate.  Community Participation  Best practice and best value  Life is to be enjoyed at every stage, and sport has a role.  Leadership  Sports provide the opportunity to learn, acquire and demonstrate respect in our community.  Volunteers deserve respect and support.  Some community members deserve additional support.  Now more than ever, available resources need to be used effectively.  CSP responds to sporting needs through our delivery and coordination of sports in the County, and we also have a role in leading local sports developmen2t 5 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Our RoleCSP has a role across the sports landscape of County Cavan including:  Supporting facilities, organisations and volunteers which make sports possible, for example sports halls, pitches, sports clubs, youth and community groups, coaches and committees.  Enabling sports activities which appeal to people and encourage participation, such as team sports – soccer, GAA, basketball; individual sports – athletics, swimming, walking; and minority sports – hillwalking, boccia and canoeing.  Providing access to information on the sports activities, opportunities and organisations which enable people to structure their participation in sports.We will undertake this role by:  Providing meaningful Sports and Physical Activity Programmes  Targeting Low Involvement Groups and Individuals  Identifying Appropriate Places for Participation  Fostering Quality Provision of Sports and Physical Activity Experiences 26 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

CSP ThemesCSP works with and across this landscape through the following four Themes: 1. Participation: more sports and opportunities for more people and in particular encouraging those who don’t currently participate. 2. Sports and Activity Pathways: encouraging quality sports provision, through access for all, infrastructure availability, training, administration and volunteer support. 3. Communications: creating more awareness through effective communications about sports opportunities and the work of the CSP. 4. Structures and Administration: how the CSP will make best use of the available resources and opportunities through its effective governance and administration. 27 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Theme 1: ParticipationIn order to encourage participation in sports and physical activity we recognise the value of more sports and morechallenges for more people. The themes through which we will do this are:  More Activity: people take part in sports through teams, or individual sports such as athletics and swimming, some people are motivated by competition while most take part for recreation and health outcomes. It is important therefore that there is a sufficient range of sports opportunities for all of the people in our community,  More People: some people do, some might and some don’t participate in sports. Our particular focus is to motivate and enable those who might and don’t participate.  More Challenges: most people appreciate the importance and value of a challenge as a means of personal growth and self-respect. It is important that there are appropriate and diverse sports and physical activity challenges for all members of the County Cavan community. A challenge for some is a mile, for others a marathon. 28 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

The following are the specific Participation objectives and actions of the CSP.Objective 1.1 Actions Partners Commence IndicatorsMeaningful  Continue to deliver participation CSP, all CSP On-going Annual Participation PlanProgrammes & programmes based on a local needs Partners, NGB (APP).Opportunities analysis. and other providers.  Deliver Irish Sports Council National CSP Ongoing Apply for all relevant ISC Programmes. ISC and programme funding selected opportunities. Partners.  Identify new programmes which CSP and First quarter As part of the APP, review make best use of our existing selected NGBs of each and respond to the facilities and which are relevant to and local clubs. year programming needs of our our target groups. CSP and target groups. selected NGBs.  Support annual challenge events First quarter Identify and assist two which can signpost and confirm CSP, sports lifestyle change. clubs, of each challenge events per community groups. year annum.  Assist in the development and CSP Support the introduction and/or growth of two provision of new sports in the County. NGBs additional sports in the County over the lifetime of ISC the plan. CCC 29 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Objective 1.2 Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsIncrease sports  Continue to support the programme NGBs, HSE On-going An annual Social Inclusioninvolvement and actions of the Social Inclusion CVF, SIU Plan.amongst low Disability Officer especially amongstparticipation people with a disability.groups  Undertake the delivery and coordination All partners On-going A suite of programmes which serve the participation of activities in order to increase working towards need of each target group, to be identified per target group participation in sports and physical development of as part of the APP. activity amongst the following target sport in Cavan groups: - Disadvantaged Communities - Women and girls - Older people - People with a disability - The unemployed - Young people  Deliver any relevant Irish Sports ISC Apply for all relevant ISC Council National Programmes specific CSP target group programme to our target groups. funding opportunities. CSP  Continue to develop and implement Selected partners One target group flagship local programmes which are relevant programme per annum, for these target groups. which responds to specific local needs 30 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Theme 2: Sports and Activity PathwaysThe role of the CSP is to create gateways into sports and increase levels of participation in sports and physical activity.Clubs, commercial sports facilities, informal groups of friends and team mates, provide the long term pathways forparticipating in sports for life. This long term participation in sports requires suitable facilities, instruction and activityprogrammes and the presence of likeminded people.CSP will facilitate access to suitable facilities, support clubs and other providers to deliver quality sports experiences andmake it easier for volunteers to contribute.The objectives through which we will realise this are:  Facility Use: support the increased use of existing sports and activity facilities.  Volunteers: support volunteer uptake and commitment through best practice awareness and training programmes.  Support: provide development assistance to sports clubs and groups.The outcome we are targeting from these Sports and activity pathways are, more people providing quality sportsopportunities at more places. 31 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Facility UseSupport the increased use of existing sports and activity facilities.Objective 2.1 Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsDo more with existing CSP, CVFfacilities.  Respond to the review of the sports SIU Fourth quarter Identify and engage with and recreation facility needs analysis VEC 2013 one facility per annum with and identify facilities with the CCC the potential for additional potential for additional use. use.  Encourage sports facility operators NGB’s Third quarter One facility participation 2013 initiative per annum. to increase the community up-take of CVF their sports and activity programmes. CCC, On-going Annual update of CSP Fourth facility information data and CSPB Quarter 2013 the CSP communication formats.  Continue to provide information on CSP Undertake and follow sports and physical activity facilities CVF through on an annual in County Cavan. CCC minority sports and facility appraisal.  Support the enhanced use of CSPB On-going Increase the amount of existing club facilities for NGB CVF third party involvement and delivery of CSP diverse/minority sports use, or Schools programmes by 15%. Develop a CSP policy physical activity programmes for non /colleges regarding the use of the members. outdoors as a recreation venue and undertake two  Continue to assist community and CVF, CMP Second quarter outdoor recreation related commercial providers, as well as 2013 events per annum. individual tutors, to deliver our target group programmes.  Support the increased use of the CSP On-going natural environment as a sports and CCC physical activity venue. 32 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Volunteers Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsObjective 2.2Support volunteer  Support a volunteer recruitment CSP, Fourth quarter Volunteer best practiseuptake and and retention programme in NGB, 2013 informationcommitment through partnership with clubs. ISC, BI developed/collated andbest practice promoted on our website.awareness and  Continue to deliver needs based NGBs On-goingtraining volunteer training along with ISC CSP Annual volunteer trainingprogrammes. National Training Programmes. ISC programme.  Develop a volunteer training NGBs Second quarter Develop and communicate small grant scheme. CVF. 2013 an annual training small CCC grant scheme process.  Support the development of a CSP Third quarter Develop and communicate local sports volunteer award CCC 2013 an annual volunteer award scheme in Partnership with scheme in partnership with Cavan County Council. stakeholders. 33 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Support Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsObjective 2.3Provide  Support relevant minority sports NGBs, First quarter Identify and respond todevelopment Governing Bodies in order to ISC 2014 local participationassistance to sports grow new sporting opportunities SIU needs which may beclubs and groups. in the County. CVF Ongoing served through BI On going additional minority sports provision.  Continue to support the formation NGB, On going An annual meet and and operation of meet and train HSE train programme. Revisit second initiatives. quarter 2013 In partnership with stakeholders,  Continue to operate the CSP CSPB administer and annual small grant scheme. small grants scheme.  Continue to provide training to NGBs, An annual club clubs on effective governance ISC governance and and operations. BI administration training support programme.  Support club development NGBs, throughout the county. ISC Host an annual RDOs conference in response to identified club development needs. 34 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Pathways: Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsObjective 2.4Develop pathways to  Increase our interaction and NGBs, Third quarter Stronger relationship withlifelong participation. strategic links with sports national ISC, 2013 one sports NGB each governing bodies in order to make Sports year in order to support best use of their resources and Board their club development networks. Represen initiatives. tatives.  Continue to develop and promote NGBs, Fourth quarter An annual participation links between participants and ISC, 2013 event which generates clubs, commercial and community Sports public awareness of organisations, which offer Board existing programmes and sustainable participation Represen facilities. programmes. tatives.  In partnership with a sport’s NGBs, First quarter 2013 Support the disability governing body, pilot and review a ISC, integration capacity of a sports integration programme for Sports sports club. people with a disability. Board Represen tatives. 35 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Theme 3: CommunicationsBeing effective and being visible.CSP has three audiences:  Organisations, clubs and agencies with sports and physical activity agendas  Target groups with low levels of sports and physical activity participation  The general population of County Cavan.The CSP must communicate effectively across all three audiences. Only by engaging with these organisations, clubs andagencies, can the CSP secure the funding, coordinate resources and roll out the initiatives which promote participation insports and physical activity.In order that the CSP can fulfil its core responsibility and effectively apply its resources, it has a specific responsibility tobe visible amongst those who are least active and who wish to change. The general public and those who currentlyparticipate in sports also need to be aware of the role and actions of the CSP and its partners. By witnessing their CSP’sassets in action, the general public can engage with, appreciate and support the current and future role of the CSP.While CSP must acknowledge the role of its constituent partners, it must also have a distinct brand, visibility and role inthe minds of its three audiences.The Themes through which we will do this are:  Planning and programmes: using a structured and focused approach towards marketing communications.  Tools and content: review and restructure our communication resources in order to position CSP as the sports information portal for the County.The outcomes from this communications process are increased visibility and informed awareness about the CSP, acrossour three audiences. 36 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Planning and programmesObjective 3.1 Actions Partners Target IndicatorsA structured and  A structured marketing process CSPB Second An annual CSPfocused marketing which generates awareness of the Quarter 2013 communications plan.communications CSP role and programmes for theapproach. internal and external audiences of Third Quarter Additional marketing the CSP. 2013 communications expertise at Board or  Grow the marketing skills capacity CSPB consultant level. of the CSP Board and staff. Formal promotion protocols for all CSP  Identify and adhere to promotion CSPB Third Quarter events, programmes protocols prior to, during and 2013 and communications. subsequent to events and programmes.  An annual communications CSP staff Third Quarter Commitment of an budget. and 2013 and each annual communications CSPB year budget and supporting thereafter. resources. 37 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Tools and contentObjective 3.2 Actions Partners Target IndicatorsRefine our  Review the various CSP, TPC First Quarter 2014 A review ofcommunications communications resources communications trendsresources in order available to the CSP. and other agencyto position CSP as communicationsthe sports  Agree on the type and format of CSP First Quarter 2014 resources uses.information portal additional CSP promotionalfor the County. materials. An innovative response to the CSP’s use of communication resources.  Enhance the visibility of the CSP, First Quarter 2014 Identify and brand CSP brand. strong CSP CSPB, SC programmes and include a CSP brand and slogan on all CSP promotions.  Improve the accuracy and CSP, Third Quarter 2013 Refine and update our timeliness of our sports sports training and information resources. CSPB, SC participation timetables, club information, information sources and content of the CSP activity timetable. 38 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Theme 4: Structures and AdministrationHow the CSP will make best use of the available resources and opportunitiesthrough its effective governance and administration.While the CSP forms part of the national sports structure of the Irish SportsCouncil, the 2005 Fitzpatrick & Associates Review of Local Sports PartnershipsProgramme, undertaken on behalf of the Irish Sports Council, recommended thatLocal Sports Partnerships should be established as sub committees of theCounty Development Boards. In 2008 CSP became part of the Cavan CountyCouncil and the Cavan County Development Board structure. Hence the CSP is part of a national recreation sportsdevelopment structure which is managed locally within Cavan County Council.The CSP strategic plan is consistent with the objectives of both national and local agencies and includes appropriategovernance and administration policies and practises.The Board of the CSP identifies the direction and has the overarching responsibility for the operation of the CSP and itsremit of increasing participation in sport, and ensuring that local resources are used to best effect. Comprised ofrepresentatives from a variety of statutory bodies, organisations and groups, with a responsibility or interest in sportsdevelopment, the board members have three responsibilities:  Inform themselves about Board matters and play an active part.  Communicate effectively between the CSP board and the organisation which they represent.  Act in the best interests of the CSP and its responsibilities.Having completed the first phase of its development, the CSP is positioned to increase its role as a coordinator and leaderof sports and physical activity development within the County. 39 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

In order for the CSP to function and develop its remit effectively, there must be:  Vision: a coherent and challenging role for the CSP as a coordinator and leader of sports and physical activity development.  Participation: the continued active participation of relevant agencies and Partners on the CSP Board.  Administrative and Financial management: secure and manage the resources of the CSP in a proactive and transparent manner.  Research and Reporting: identify and demonstrate the CSP’s impact and build on our experience. 40 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Objective 4.1 Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsThe continued active  Continue the proactive CSPB First Quarter 2013. Agreed strategicparticipation of engagement with Partner objectives with allrelevant agencies agencies on the Board and CSP staff partner agencies.and Partners on the through meetings.CSP Board. . 2 strategic themed  Enhanced strategic focus at Board meetings Board level. CSPB First Quarter per annum. CSP staff Annually  Continued sharing of skills and CSPB Second Quarter Identify and experience between the Board establish CSP and the executive. CSP staff Annually. working groups which benefit from the Board members skills. 41 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Administrative and Financial managementObjective 4.2 Actions Partners Commencement IndicatorsSecure and manage  Continue to secure core and All CSP On-going  Annual and occasionalthe resources of the funding applicationCSP in a transparent project funding in order to Partners process.manner develop and deliver the  Continued formal financial reporting programmes and responsibilities system. of the CSP within the 50% self-  Board reports, newsletter updates and funding requirement. annual SPEAK report  Continue to manage the finances CSPB On-going  Annual staff review and training plan to assist of the CSP in a transparent and and Staff the delivery of the strategic plan. effective manner. CCC  Annual staff/resource  Continue to report on the strategy CSP Annual Fourth growth programme. and actions of the CSP. Staff, ISC Quarter  Undertake a review and training CSPB Annual Fourth timetable for the staff and Board and CSP Quarter of the CSP. staff  Identify and actively pursue CSPB On-going additional human resources for the CSP 42 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Research and Reporting:Objective 4.3 Actions Partners Target IndicatorsIdentify and  Review and revise our CSP staff Second Quarter Updated anddemonstrate the programme evaluation and SC 2013 completed programmeCSP impact and templates. templates for allbuild on our courses.experience.  Detailed evaluation of selected programmes. One detailed CSP Annually programme evaluation  Identify the participation Programme commencing 2014 per year. sustainability of specific CSP partners programmes. CSP Annually Using evaluation and commencing third follow up participant Quarter 2013 contact, identify the long term participation, impact of one CSP course per annum 43 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Glossary of TermsCCC: Cavan County CouncilCMP: Cavan Monaghan PartnershipCVF: Community and Voluntary ForumHSE: Health Service ExecutiveLA: Local AuthorityNTO: National Trails OfficeRDO: Regional Development OfficersSC: subcommittee of the CSP BoardSF: Sports ForumTPC: Third Party Contractor.VEC: Vocational Education Committee 44 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Appendix 1Programme Outline Number ofCode of Ethics To support child protection and good practice for Children’s Sport. Participants 394First Aid Training Training for sports volunteers in first aid. 24Buntús – Programme for increasing physical activity levels among pre-school and primary school 871Generic, Start & children in Cavan.Sport SpecificGirls in Action Offering alternative sports to inactive teenage girls so that they will increase their 503 participation in sport and physical activity.Older and Active Programme promoting physical activity and active living among older people in Cavan 809Active The Active Leadership Award is designed to provide trained, knowledgeable an 8Leadership enthusiastic community based physical activity leader.Children’s Officer Satisfies the training requirement for the Irish Sports Council recommendation that 40Training every club involved with children and young people should appoint a Children’s Officer.Active A programme of physical activity delivered in the RAPID area 910 +Communities 640 +Women in Sport A women’s initiative delivered in partnership with Women in Sport – Workouts for Women, Meet & Train, Gaelic for MothersPeace III A cross border, cross community games programme 81Together An exciting physical activity initiative, in partnership with schools. 17 schoolsThrough GamesBe Active After- 45 | P a g eSchool ActivityProgramme Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Walking Festival Variety of walks organised across County Cavan on May Bank Holiday Weekend 500 +Fit Wise A physical activity and healthy eating programme for men and women 300Operation This event was organised in partnership with the ISC and RTE Operations 370Transformation TransformationWalkDisability This programme is delivered in second level schools and is facilitated by the Irish 620Awareness Wheelchair Association (IWA). The training aims to educate students about differentTraining disabilities and how to include them into society and sport.including TYLucozade Sport Coaching Ireland in partnership with Lucozade Sport has developed a programme of 28Coaching Continuous Professional Development (CPD). The objective of this programme is to 70Workshop disseminate relevant & up-to-date Sports Science information on an All Island basis to athletes, coaches, tutors & governing bodies.Expert External consultant delivering support trainingPresentationsCycling Training A range of programmes to encourage cycling in the County - Bike Week Activities, 60 Pedal Right, Sprocket Rocket 31I AF Walking Walking Leader Training is aimed at people wishing to lead a walking group or promoteLeader Training walking in the community or workplace.ASA Swim Intensive three day course for people to teach individual swimmers with significant 31Helpers learning, physical or sensory disabilities..This course is certified by Swim Ireland. 802Sports Inclusion Suite of programmes designed to directly increase participation among people with 30 disability - Easter Campabilities, Boccia, Soccer Skills, GAA Skills Programme etc.Boxsmart Programme designed to increasing participation in disadvantaged communities 46 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Appendix 2The following are the National Guidelines on Physical Activity for Ireland as outlined by Get Ireland Activehttp://www.getirelandactive.ie/content/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Get-Ireland-Active-Guidelines-GIA.pdf .Age Group Recommendations Activity TypesRecommended levels of physical Children and youth aged 5–17 should accumulate at For children and young people,activity for children aged 5 - 17 least 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity includes play,years: physical activity daily. games, sports, transportation, Amounts of physical activity greater than 60 minutes chores, recreation, physicalRecommended levels of physical provide additional health benefits. education, or planned exercise, inactivity for adults aged 18 - 64 Most of the daily physical activity should be aerobic. the context of family, school, andyears Vigorous-intensity activities should be incorporated, community activities. including those that strengthen muscle and bone*, at least 3 times per week. In adults aged 18–64, physical At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity includes leisure time physical physical activity, or do at least 75 minutes of vigorous- activity (for example: walking, intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week, or dancing, gardening, hiking, an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous- swimming), transportation (e.g. intensity activity. walking or cycling), occupational (i.e. Aerobic activity should be performed in bouts of at least work), household chores, play, 10 minutes duration. games, sports or planned exercise, in the context of daily, family, and Muscle-strengthening activities should be done involving community activities. In order to major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week. improve cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness, bone health, reduce the risk of NCDs and depression. 47 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

Age Group Recommendations Activity TypesRecommended levels of physical  Older adults should do at least 150 minutes of In adults aged 65 years and above,activity for adults aged 65 andabove moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or do physical activity includes leisure time at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity (for example: physical activity throughout the week or an walking, dancing, gardening, hiking, equivalent combination of moderate- and swimming), transportation (e.g. vigorous-intensity activity. walking or cycling), occupational (if  Aerobic activity should be performed in bouts of the individual is still engaged in at least 10 minutes duration. work), household chores, play,  For additional health benefits, older adults should games, sports or planned exercise, increase their moderate-intensity aerobic physical in the context of daily, family, and activity to 300 minutes per week, or engage in community activities. 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, or an equivalent combination of In order to improve cardiorespiratory moderate-and vigorous-intensity activity. and muscular fitness, bone and  Older adults, with poor mobility, should perform functional health, reduce the risk of physical activity to enhance balance and prevent NCDs, depression and cognitive falls on 3 or more days per week. decline:  Muscle-strengthening activities, involving major muscle groups, should be done on 2 or more days a week. On request this document can be made available in Irish. 48 | P a g e Cavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015

49 | P a g eCavan Sports Partnership Strategic Plan 2013-2015