Applied Coaching Research Journal Research Journal 5 | Page 31

APPLIED COACHING RESEARCH JOURNAL 2020, Vol. 5 • similar trends were observed for sexual orientation. Participants identifying as bisexual, gay (male and female), lesbian and asexual orientations were more likely to feel that the workforce did not demonstrate the required level of understanding, supportiveness, inclusivity, approachability, motivation and adaptability as desired. Implications of research for coaching The quantitative findings of this research show that the LGBT+ community is underrepresented in the sport and physical activity workforce. In addition, members of the LGBT+ community expressed greater discomfort to disclose sexual orientation and gender, compared to the heterosexual community. Therefore, there needs to be consideration of how best to support the LGBT+ community to become involved in the delivery of sport and physical activity and to feel comfortable expressing their sexual and gender orientations within their role. Based on participant ratings, softer skills (such as supportiveness) are a key attribute, and as such there is a need for the workforce to have opportunities to develop these skills so that they are appropriately skilled and knowledgeable to provide a person-centred experience to participants. One way in which these skills could be developed is via targeted learning programmes, such as the Supporting the Person in Front of You workshop (an adaptation by Energise Me of the UK Coaching, Coaching the Person in Front of You workshop), which focuses on building meaningful connections in all interactions. important to ensure that phrases such as 'inclusive' are not loosely applied to all workforce interactions and environments, without the appropriate consideration for the participants’ experience, feelings and expectations.  Creating open environments and encouraging the workforce to discuss intentional support and action will be pivotal. Use of role play scenarios could ensure that people feel comfortable when engaging with participants or a workforce from different demographics. References Energise Me (2018) Understanding vulnerable 14-19 year olds: Motivations and barriers [online]. Available from: http://www. energiseme.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/ Understanding-vulnerable-14-to-19-year-olds. pdf Public Health England (2014) Everybody active, every day: An evidence-based approach to physical activity [online]. Available from: https://assets.publishing. service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/ uploads/attachment_data/file/353384/ Everybody_Active__Every_Day_evidence_ based_approach_CONSULTATION_VERSION.pdf Acknowledgements This work was undertaken as a research project with funding support from Sport England. The authors would also like to thanks Dr Jayne Caudwell for her help with the project and data collection. Contact Sophie Burton – [email protected] It is also important to note that the LGBT+ community is not a homogeneous group and that, as with all interactions, a respectful, purposeful and individual approach should be applied. It is also 31