In the third of our weekly series on the Sports Commission, Robin Roussel addresses concerns at the fall in the participation level of women in local sport. DURING the first part of 2004, many local sports accepted the opportunity to meet representatives of the Guernsey Sports Commission to discuss common problems that might be addressed by the commission.

Four such meetings have been held and, where possible, action will be taken to resolve at least some of the issues.

One of the main concerns raised was the drop in the participation level by women, particularly in the 16 to 24 age group.

A committee has been formed to look at this issue with a view to rewriting the existing strategy.

Members of this committee are: Kathy Stuart, Susie Farnon, Kath Hyman, Rachel Dovey, Jo Robinson, Sarah Day, Lois Le Lacheur, Ann Bowditch, Jason Shambrook and Gareth Le Prevost, with valuable input received from Lyn and John Goodall.

If any reader has any views or thoughts which might aid the committee in upgrading its strategy and thus reversing this trend, Kathy Stuart would welcome a call on 747210 during working hours.

Guernsey activity survey

Youngsters congregating on the Bridge, anti-social behaviour in housing areas, misuse of cars on public roads …

Is there sufficient choice of activity for our young people? We often hear opinions that youngsters have too little to occupy their spare time.

The commission, Education Department and Health and Social Services Department have joined forces to find the level of activity among the island’s youth focusing on the take-up of sport among young people and the impact that it has on their lives.

This evidence base for healthy lifestyles will prove an essential element in the planning of sporting facilities, education services and health policies and may go some way towards reducing anti-social behaviour.

The Schools Health Education Unit, a national body with expertise in researching sport and health activities, has overseen the bespoke Guernsey survey, with all but two island junior/primary schools taking part.

Years 6, 8 and 10 children have completed the survey online and the results are now ready for analysis.

The findings will be made available to the public in October.