ANNUAL REPORT INCLUDING FINANCIAL 2020 INFORMATION

1 WELCOME CONTENTS

President’s Report ...... 4 TO OUR Chair’s Report ...... 5 Chief Executive’s Report ...... 6 2020 Club Services and Development ...... 8 Competitions and Events ...... 12 International Performance ...... 14 ANNUAL Coaching ...... 16 Communications ...... 17 REPORT Governance ...... 18 In Memoriam ...... 20 Financial Information ...... 22 2021-2026 Strategy Development ...... 26 Our Values ...... 30 The Year Ahead ...... 32 Benefits of Affiliation...... 34

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 3 CHAIR’S REPORT DAVID TUCKER

Since my appointment at the Annual General Meeting back PRESIDENT’S REPORT in February 2020 so many things have changed. We need to PAUL ROBSON reflect on all that has happened and how Bowls England has The Board has continued to meet virtually on a When the first lockdown was announced I was adapted to the pandemic and how regular basis and the Chief Executive’s report about to embark on a tour of Spain with 75 other we plan to move forward in 2021 sets out the highlights of our work and proposals bowlers from all over England. I am now quite and deal with the new environment for the future. I would like to refer to two Board relieved we never left our shores and everyone decisions. Firstly, it was decided that until the has remained safe from the virus. in which we find ourselves. general picture is clearer, the proposal for a new The Bowls England team was quick to act and At the Annual General Meeting we welcomed two headquarters should be put on hold. Secondly, the whole competitive season was cancelled. new Directors, Foster Johnson (Governance) and a new five-year strategic plan, together with We were due to play 38 celebration matches in Harry Nijjar (Marketing and Communications). the additional staffing resources required to 2020, many of which were centenaries. With this When the pandemic took hold in March two key implement the plan was approved. in mind, it was decided to offer a ‘rollover’ to all decisions were made. Motivated by a desire the clubs and associations who would like to In August, I was saddened to learn of the passing to safeguard the well-being of clubs and the move their match to 2021. Around twenty of them of the man regarded by many as the greatest lawn sport, the Board chose to return affiliation fees applied and I am very pleased to say we will be bowler of all time, David J. Bryant CBE. David and National Championship income and not to able to accommodate them all. We now have 46 was an icon for many decades, whose name furlough the staff team. matches planned for this summer, starting at the was synonymous with our sport. He was well- beginning of May, with a very ambitious schedule The past year saw significant change in respected by all who knew him. I was fortunate almost 50% more than we would normally expect. leadership at Bowls England as we said farewell to compete against David on the green on many occasions, often coming on the wrong end of the During the past ten months there has been to our long-standing Chair and Chief Executive. During the course of a scoreline, but a match against him was always a lots of work going on behind the scenes to normal summer season David Mitchell-Gears MBE, who became Chair pleasure and includes many memories that I will ensure our clubs and associations survive this the Presidential team when Bowls England was formed in 2008, retired never forget. We pay tribute to David and many pandemic. I would like to thank the Bowls England from his post in November 2019. A bowls player other stalwarts of our sport who we lost in the would be travelling the length Board, Staff and all of the volunteers within our since 1965, he helped to form Bowls England past 12 months on pages 20 and 21. clubs and associations for your hard work and and breadth of the country when the English Bowling Association (EBA) perseverance. There appears to now be light at visiting clubs and associations and English Women’s Bowling Association We have a great staff team, currently working the end of the tunnel, but we must remain vigilant to celebrate a significant event (EWBA) amalgamated. He was awarded the from home, who have supported us all and have and take all of the necessary precautions. given great help and guidance during the past year. or anniversary. We would also MBE for services to the sport of lawn bowls As a result, our engagement with members has Along with Senior Vice President Terri Keen in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2014. be attending the four British improved through better communication channels (Buckinghamshire), Junior Vice President Deepak Tony Allcock OBE retired from the post of and we are working to develop this even further. Isles events and spending a Tanna (Leicestershire) and Immediate Past Chief Executive in March 2020. Following his whole month at the National President Hazel Marke (Hampshire), we are all competitive retirement from the sport, Tony The last few months have been challenging Championships at Victoria looking forward very much to getting back out onto became Chief Executive of the English Bowling and I thank the Board, Staff team and our many the green and meeting as many of you as possible. Park, Royal Leamington Spa. Association in 2003 and then Bowls England volunteers at both county and club level for the Unfortunately, in 2020 none following its formation in 2008. He was awarded dedication and hard work that they have put in to of that happened. the OBE for services to Lawn Bowls in the keep our sport going. It is important that some form ADAPT AND Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2019. of normality returns for the start of the 2021 season. On 1 June 2020 we welcomed our new Chief OVERCOME Executive Jon Cockcroft who came to us from ONWARDS AND England Hockey. UPWARDS

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 5 CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S REPORT Action from the Disability Bowls England trial day at the picturesque Waddesden JON COCKCROFT Bowls Club in Buckinghamshire

When reflecting on 2020, it’s almost impossible to A number of recurring themes have come through That sense of team was evident when attending look beyond Covid-19 and its impact on our sport. the research and it is apparent what the task at the Disability Bowls England trial day at Many outdoor bowls clubs remained closed, hand is. In short, whilst nurturing the authentic the picturesque Waddesden Bowls Club in thousands of bowlers did not pick up a bowl in and intrinsic qualities of our sport, bowls must Buckinghamshire, a real highlight of my first anger, the competitive season as we know it did become more relevant, appealing and accessible season. On a beautiful day in September, a group not happen and the sport was affected financially to a broader range of people. With the digital of inspiring players, enthusiastic support staff and at all levels of our game. revolution, evolving family lifestyles and greater superbly helpful club members came together for choice, the way in which people consume sport is a great day of bowls. During a summer short of It was with deep sadness that we learnt of changing fast and, in this competitive landscape, these sorts of opportunities, it was a wonderful members of the bowls community directly bowls must provide a compelling proposition. The reminder of what sport is all about – people affected by the coronavirus and of clubs who silver lining of the Coronavirus cloud was that the striving to do their best, shared experiences feel they cannot continue operating in the current opportunity bowls has was illuminated, the need and having fun. Supporting the event were Ellen conditions. In this context, it might be challenging to evolve became more necessary and a culture Falkner and Maggy Smith, who have both given to find many positives but, as we look to drive our of adaptability was borne. so much to our sport, and it was fantastic a few sport forwards, I believe the difficulties faced in weeks later to see their efforts rewarded in the recent times have been both cathartic and defining. The next few pages will look back in more detail Queen’s Birthday Honours. about Bowls England’s endeavours throughout The decision not to take advantage of the 2020. In spite of the circumstances, it was a I would like to thank the staff team for their government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme productive 12 months with notable highlights commitment and adaptability through the It is a pleasure to pen enabled our staff to provide valuable Coronavirus being the number of clubs who managed to strangest of years, David Tucker and the board my first Chief Executive guidance and help clubs access over £2m of get up and running creating Covid-19 safe for their support and counsel and all those in the government financial support. Moreover, the Report having joined Bowls environments, the Let’s Roll marketing campaign bowls community who have helped advance our time freed up from the cancellation of the normal England back in June. I would and the greater engagement of bowlers across sport during these challenging times. summer programme, afforded us the time to firstly like to pay tribute to my our social media channels. deliver an extensive insight and consultation I look forward with optimism predecessor Tony Allcock OBE for programme, which will inform a new five-year On a personal level, it has been fantastic to to a better 2021 and hope his stewardship of Bowls England strategy to be launched in early 2021. meet so many new people since I joined the to meet many more of the since its inception and thank him organisation back in June. Although this has Thank you to the thousands of bowlers, club largely been through the medium of a computer bowls community over for the encouragement he has volunteers, county officials and many more screen, I have been encouraged by the warm the coming months. provided me. It is also appropriate who have contributed through a combination welcome I’ve received and the huge passion there of surveys, emails and focus groups. The input to record my gratitude to Alistair is for our sport to flourish. I am highly motivated has been both informative and inspiring, and the Hollis and Penny Maguire to create an environment where all the energy of wealth of knowledge and passion for our sport those who care about the sport is harnessed in an who oversaw the organisation came through loud and clearly. Some of the effective and integrated manner. It’s only through commendably through an findings are detailed on page 27 of this report a culture of togetherness that our sport will reach with an overview of the strategy also detailed. unexpectedly challenging interim its true potential. period last spring.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 7 who feel that they may fall within this category bowlers to invite friends and family for a game. CLUB SERVICES to contact us for assistance at the earliest opportunity.

AND DEVELOPMENT The affiliation process has been changed to reflect the circumstances but also it makes more A constant focus of our work is to help support the 2,000 clubs up sense to receive affiliation fees once clubs know In total 402 clubs signed up and received the and down the country who affiliate to us. Affiliation provides clubs their membership numbers and have received their membership income. We are pleased with campaign resources and committed to provide with a range of services and our aim is to increase the awareness the positive feedback this move has received. opportunities for new, social bowlers. Clubs used of the support that is already available and develop new benefits the attractive marketing resources locally, largely that will add further value. through their digital and social channels, and this effort was supported by a national marketing We also work alongside our development arm, the Bowls Development Alliance (BDA), to provide additional We started bowling on campaign primarily through Facebook. help to clubs through its funded projects and dedicated resource for club support. Monday, singles only at present. The guidance from Bowls The digital marketing campaign ran for 36 days A full list of benefits of affiliation are detailed on page 34 and 35 and this section gives a flavour of the key and reached over 360,000 people. It was a highly work we’ve undertaken to support clubs this year. England has been excellent engaged campaign and, of the 60 clubs who and we all thank you for returned results, 506 new people took part in your ongoing support. bowls activity, and 227 of those became new COVID-19 RESPONSE Alongside the affiliation fee ‘holiday’, and members of clubs. The lifetime contribution of with additional support from the BDA, we these new members will be hugely beneficial for Our Covid-19 response dominated our interactions communicated all the funding opportunities those clubs who took advantage of this. We will with clubs in 2020. In total we published more that were made available by government and Mike Nye from Lyndhurst BC, Durham look to do similar campaigns in the 2021 season than 20 iterations of the Covid-19 guidance to it was hugely satisfying that bowls was one and are planning a National Open Weekend help clubs meet requirements for essential greens of the key beneficiaries of this support. between Friday 28th and Monday 31st May 2021. maintenance, playing conditions and latterly LET’S ROLL More details on page 33 of this report. social activity, adapting the generic information A total of 1,062 clubs were PARTICIPATION provided by government to a bowls setting in awarded a cash grant via the CAMPAIGN response to an ever-changing situation. Sport England Community We used the Let’s Roll ads on We received a significant volume of enquiries Emergency Fund, with the overall local Facebook groups. 21 throughout the year, helping provide clarity and value of approved funds for our empowering clubs to open in a safe manner. We people attended sessions, aged were delighted that many of our clubs reopened to sport totalling £2,404,765 – an between 10 and 80. 10 people enable those members of the bowls community average of almost £2,250 per club. have joined. From the feedback who wished to return to the green to do so. Time will tell on the short-term impact of the everyone enjoyed the sessions. Motivated by a desire to protect the well-being of global pandemic on bowls participation, but it We hope we can use the clubs and the sport from the start of the pandemic, does feel very important that the bowls season material again in the spring next As clubs reopened in June, it was encouraging to we chose to return approximately £500,000 of club can start in earnest in May. Our Club Survey said learn that many were welcoming an influx of new year, we are very hopeful we will affiliation income. In itself this was a significant that, despite the pandemic, 77% of clubs received bowlers, in part because of other leisure options have even more success. administrative undertaking and the impact on the membership income in 2020, however 35% of not being possible, but also because the more Bowls England’s finances are detailed elsewhere in respondents did state that they felt the pandemic Thank you for the support. social bowls that was being offered was attractive this report, but we very much hope this has played put the long-term future of the club ‘at risk’. and accessible. The Let’s Roll marketing campaign a part in minimising the impact of Covid-19 on the We are working with the BDA to provide direct delivered in August and September aimed to overall well-being of the sport. assistance to all those clubs that have raised a concern, and would further urge any clubs capitalise on that interest and encourage existing Brenda Grout from Fleet United BC, Hampshire

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 9 WEBINARS AND BURSARIES MEMBERSHIP REGISTER BOWLS DEVELOPMENT NUMBER AWARDED TOTAL PODCASTS YEAR GREENS AMOUNT In January 2020, we added additional resource ALLIANCE (BDA) COACHING SAFEGUARDING MAINTENANCE AWARDED into the development of a database of members We are determined to inform and entertain 2018 119 22 25 £13,706 2020 saw the BDA recruit a new Managing our members and significantly increased our 2019 97 14 33 £10,142 to help achieve our ambition of knowing and Director, Lisa Graham. Lisa comes with a wealth 2020 59 4 17 £5,608 communications activity over the past year. Our engaging all those in the country who play bowls. of sports development experience from her time YouTube Channel is home to our official podcast at British Cycling. A key focus for 2020 has been Volunteers are the backbone of our sport at all There are a number of reasons we want to do this. ‘The Extra End’ and the ‘Bowler’s Lockdown aligning our work programmes and collaborating levels, and we are therefore pleased to offer Understanding our participation base will inform Workout’, as well as a series of club services more effectively. This has been evident through bursaries in support of members of affiliated how we develop our game, offering appropriate webinars covering topics including communications, projects such as National Open Weekend planning clubs who wish to obtain Coach Bowls coaching products and services to players and identifying social media and funding. This content will be and our work on safeguarding, and we will build qualifications and EBUA umpire qualifications. ways of growing participation. further developed over the next 12 months. More than £6,000 was paid out in the last year. on this over the coming months. Sport England, Furthermore, data allows us to communicate whose funding is channelled through the BDA LOANS, BURSARIES GREENS MAINTENANCE effectively with the many players who wish to to support the bowls codes, is the sport’s most be informed, entertained and excited about our critical stakeholder and this integrated AND FUNDING We recognise that a quality playing surface is sport. The data and trends are critical to reporting approach is imperative if we are to give All affiliated clubs are eligible to apply for an vital to the enjoyment of our sport at all levels back to Sport England, who fund our work them confidence and see more public interest-free Club Loan to enable them to make and are keen to ensure that our clubs have through the BDA. Data is also important if we investment into our sport. an important capital investment. As at 30th access to specialist advice when they need are to grow commercially and be less reliant on September 2020 £415,582 was out ‘on loan’ it most via our Greens Maintenance Advisory affiliation income because it allows us to promote to support clubs. Service. Club green-keepers can also apply for a things that people may want, and provides value Greens Bursary of up to £200 per year in support We also invested in a Grant Finder service, to sponsors who could communicate to our of an approved greens maintenance qualification. enabling clubs to identify potential funding audience through Bowls England. opportunities and unlock new pots of money, with CELEBRATION MATCHES As we worked on this project, it has become over 450 clubs signing up to use the free service. Unfortunately, Covid-19 meant we were forced clear the purpose of this project had not been communicated effectively and the method of CLUB LOANS to cancel the Celebration Match programme for New Loans Outstanding 2020. A number of these games were rolled over achieving the end result was not going to prove Year Number Value at Yr End to 2021 and, in total, 46 Celebrations Matches successful. We therefore have adopted a different 2018 15 £144,000 £341,595 are scheduled for this summer. We hope that we approach. As part of the 2021 affiliation process, 2019 7 £102,000 £347,462 will able to deliver a full programme and that Paul affiliated clubs must supply the contact details of 2020 16 £199,000 £415,582 Robson, and his Presidential Team, will have the their key officials in order for Bowls England and the counties to communicate directly to them about pleasure of meeting as many people as possible Lisa Graham joined the Bowls matters of club management. We will begin to Development Alliance in August throughout the summer. 2020 as its new Managing Director deliver communications, which will help club leaders take full advantage of all the benefits of affiliation.

In terms of the broader membership, we will be working on ways to offer value to individuals that motivate them to share their data, in the same way that competition entrants share their data with us so we can facilitate their enjoyment of our competitions. We already have over 15,000 individual bowlers who have opted in to receive our e-newsletters and we will ramping up the content we produce to enhance their enjoyment of our sport.

Celebration Matches were forced to ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL be cancelled due to Covid-19 11 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 the 2022CommonwealthGames. around our spectator experienceoffthe backof there isahugepotentialto create astepchange the NationalFinalsinto ahigherprofile event and to wehave evolveFurthermore, anopportunity effectively strategy. withourperformance of peopleand,forthosemore eliteplayers, link competitions sothey appealto awidernumber to committhetime.We needto evolve the younger, workingpeopleare findingitdifficult challenging forteamsto beassembledand landscape isquiteconfusing.Itincreasingly the volume ofcompetitionistoo great andthe well received by thosewhocompete, theviewis phase. Whilstbroadly ourcompetitionoffer is following feedback duringtheconsultation We have alsobegunreviewing ourcompetitions engaging communicationsforthecoming. competition entrants andare planningmore inorder toPortal improve theexperiencefor invested timeinadvancing theCompetitions to the2021season. In themeantime,wehave entered competitions hadtheirentriesrolled over season couldnottake place.Allthosewhohad Covid-19 dictatedthatthenormalcompetitions player to testthemselves onthenational stage. forCompetitions are ofourworkproviding akey opportunities part REVIEW CANCELLATION AND AND COMPETITIONS CHAMPIONSHIPS NATIONAL AND EVENTS COMPETITIONS Our partners atWarwick DistrictCouncil,withour Our partners 2022 CommonwealthGames. atVictoriaunderway Park inpreparation forthe A programme ofsignificantimprovement workis result oftheadditionalinvestment. links from Victoria Park to thetown centre asa Leamington SpaRailway Stationandimproved Visitors willalsoseeimprovements atRoyal legacy forfuture generations ofbowlers. the playing area. This willprovide agreat Games with additionalworkonthebankssurrounding (A/B/C andD)have nowbeenlevelled andre-laid, All fourgreens thatwillbeusedduringtheGames players, officials andvisitors alike. Victoria Park to provide world-classfacilitiesfor existing bowlinggreens andbuildingswithin of improvements includingenhancementof the secured £1.8milliontowardssupport, aseries VICTORIA PARK GREENS coaching andapro-am match. by theBowlsEnglandteamincludingquizzes, competition butenjoyed avariety ofactivitiesled intheregular bowls who notonlytook part 2020 wasenjoyed by more than400members inJanuary Our annualweekatPotters Resort achieved nationalsuccessonthegreen in2019. event inFebruary to pay tributeto thosewhohad More than300guestsintotal attendedtheMen’s once againforourAnnualPresentation Dinners. The Hilton Hotelproved to beanexcellent venue spectators alike. success onandoffthegreen forplayers and collaboratively to helpmake thenewevent a was madedemocratically andare working format proposal, werespect thedecision which amoderately differentWhilst wesupported thatdoesnotcurrently existintheUK. opportunity to competedirectly againsteachother–an for top players andteamsineachdiscipline and World Bowls.Itwillalsoprovide thepotential the formatsutilisedatCommonwealthGames inarange ofdisciplinesthatmirrorparticipating will meanshorter, fastergameswithplayers in linewiththecurrent format. The newevent provide accessto international bowlsto players meaningthenew-lookwillcontinueto participate, Two teamspernationwillbeeligibleto team events. Junior Championshipsinplaceofthetraditional disciplines forthe2021Women’s Seniorand event featuring singles,pairs,triplesandfours saw adecisionto introduce a‘Top 10’style Whilst the2020events were cancelled,theyear POTTERS ANNUAL DINNERS CHAMPIONSHIPS BRITISH ISLES BOWLS

country tocountry get involved inoursport. and inspires new people from allcornersof the ensure the event touches thewhole Bowls nation, work with our affiliatedclubsacross thecountry to advantage ofahomeGamesand will belookingto During 2021 wewillbefleshingoutplans to take doping and safeguarding education. kit, maximising home advantage, accommodation, anti- (CGE) on key areas of team preparation including playing act asourliaisonwithCommonwealthGamesEngland Lawn Bowls Team Leader for the 2022 Games. He will Alistair Hollishasbeenappointed as Team England’s nations andterritories. will alsobeginitsjourney around theCommonwealth the launchofticket sales,whilstandtheQueen’s Baton on therecruitment ofmore than12,000volunteers and In 2021,theOrganising Committeewillmake astart domestic broadcast rightsholderfortheGames. than men. The BBC was also announced recently as the event tomulti-sport award more medalsto women programme,parasport butalsothefirst ever major made by notonlyhaving thebiggestever integrated publication ofthelatterconfirmedthathistory willbe and medalevent programme were unveiled. The Towards theendofyear boththedailyschedule GAMES A HOME COMMONWEALTH 2022BIRMINGHAM – INVOLVED NEW PEOPLE

TO TO TO GET GET TO INSPIRE INSPIRE

13

Commonwealth Games Squad – The Elite Athlete Centre and Hotel is a Loughborough Weekend unique specialist hotel environment, designed specifically to meet the needs of elite athletes and their support staff.

INTERNATIONAL PERFORMANCE

Like the domestic season, no competitive international bowls was

possible throughout the 2020 season. The World Championships, The two world-class gyms on campus provides our Commonwealth Games due to take place in Australia in June, has been postponed to squad with an excellent sporting experience in the fantastic gym facilities. September 2021 - but even the rescheduled time is looking uncertain.

Behind the scenes the time was used effectively Games Squad from which the Birmingham 2022 as we progressed our preparation for Birmingham athletes will be chosen. Despite the challenges 2022. Building on a new Performance strategy, of Covid-19, the group gathered at Loughborough we submitted our funding application to Sport University in September to kick off the programme England to help support the athletes prepare for and, since then, have been working locally largely the home Games. Aside from funding international on fitness work and tactical planning given limited training and competition, we are looking to make access to the greens. positive strides in areas such as team building More broadly, we have been discussing a more and mentoring, sports science and medicine and holistic approach to elite performance with more coaching. We have been awarded a £200,000 grant integration between what has historically been by Sport England to support this work, which will termed ‘high performance’ and ‘international’, Our athletes also received one-to-one sessions with The highly specialist practitioners ensure our athlete’s also cover the final preparation of the para-athletes our High Performance Director and International Team robustness meets the demands of sport and to compete greater integration with other Bowls England Managers to address optimal performance and well-being. at the greatest of their abilities and prevent injury. whose preparation will be fully integrated with the activity such as media work and grassroots able-bodied squad early in 2022. activity and more operational support to the In September, our High Performance Director players and management team. A Performance John McGuinness, with assistance from Summit is planned for later this year to International Team Managers Kirk Smith and Mo explore this further with players, selectors Monkton picked their 16-strong Commonwealth and management.

COMMONWEALTH GAMES SQUAD

MEN WOMEN Nick Brett (46) Brampton BC, Huntingdonshire Natalie Chestney (31) Kings BC (Torquay), Devon

Jamie Chestney (34) Culm Vale BC, Devon Ellen Falkner MBE (41) Littleport BC, Cambridgeshire Our squad were supported by well qualified and specialist conditioning coaches instructing them in safe and effective techniques for achieving their training goals. Andrew Knapper (39) Tilehurst BC, Berkshire Amy Gowshall (41) Cleethorpes BC, Lincolnshire

Edward Morris (33) Essex County BC, Essex Sian Honnor (33) Appleyard BC, Kent

Robert Paxton (42) Crediton BC, Devon Lorraine Kuhler (30) Oxford City & County BC, Oxfordshire

Louis Ridout (31) Kings BC (Torquay), Devon Katherine Rednall (25) Norfolk BC, Norfolk

Sam Tolchard (31) Kings BC (Torquay), Devon Sophie Tolchard (29) Kings BC (Torquay), Devon

Jamie Walker (29) Northampton West End BC, Jamie-Lea Winch (30) Kingscroft BC, Leicestershire Northamptonshire

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 15 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 restrictions in face-to-face delivery. Course allow coursesto continuedespitecontinuing of Levelthe delivery 1 and Level 2 courses to Work progressed to develop a new format for option. to offer asport-specific the firstsports and we were delighted that bowlswasone of been launchedonline, developed by the NSPCC, The revised Time to Listen course has also for Club Welfare and Safeguarding Officers. without needing to attend a full course designed volunteers can attend and gaintheinformation However, this newformat means that more club the Time to Listen course, was alsodeveloped. which had previously of been delivered as a part Safeguarding Children and Young People course, and demand continues to behigh. The Basic The majority of these coursesrunatcapacity was developed during theinitiallockdown. A new Online Safeguarding Adults course provide a safe environment forall participants. enable our clubs andcountyassociationsto Coach Bowls provides arange of training to times before theCoronavirus restrictions. developed andsuccessfully delivered four - IncludingDisabledPeople inBowls’ course Inclusion as open to allwiththe‘Supporting wider commitmentto promoting our sport Coach Bowls continued to demonstrate our to itsmembersandthewiderbowlingcommunity. Bowls neededto adaptanddevelop newways ofoffering services of 2020.However, Covid-19 restrictions were introduced andCoach had beendelivered andmanymore were booked fortheremainder and successfulyear forourcoachingarm,CoachBowls.44courses September 2019through to March 2020waspromising to beastable COACHING

two-tier scale (Full and Associate membership). membership structure with benefits offered on a rolled out through 2021. There wasalso a new developments have been completed and willbe move forward. and this willcontinue to bedeveloped as we sessions with eliteplayers, coaches and umpires, Bowls YouTube channelfeatures four Q&A Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. The Coach digital-age andhaslaunchedprofiles on Coach Bowls hascontinued to adapt to the one of thebenefits theirmembership. free ofcharge to anyCoachBowlsmemberas October 2020. This newmoduleisto bedelivered sessions were from launchedfor delivery Dementia Friends Awareness Information feed to an independent assessor. of their own club environment using avirtual for candidates to beassessedfrom the comfort developed, offering anew, cutting edge option assessing online.Online assessment was provided along with training ontutoring and where fullupdatesof all developments were all tutors, assessors, verifiers andcoordinators, An online standardisation event wasdelivered for

from our clubswho did manage to return to the green in a Covid-secure way. the NHS from a number of our elite athletes, as well as sharing good practice of various games, quizzes, videos and polls, positive messages in support the last12 months.Improved engagement has been noted asa result of the We have continued to adapt our tone onoursocialmedia platforms over communications andfundingopportunities. unable to play, webinarsfocusingonimproving club withtheclubsupport weneedwhilstinlock-downand with thefitnessandwellnessservices experienced personaltrainer ourbowlers andto motivate andsupport The workoutvideoswere created especiallyforourmemberby an webinars. workout videosandclubsupport us scopeto expandinthefuture, which wealready have withthethree purposeforcreating ourYouTubeprimary Channel,butobviously gives to keep ourmembersengagedwhilstbeingunableto bowl. This wasthe were already inthepipelinepriorto Covid-19, butproved to beanidealway A newinitiative thatwehave introduced is‘TheExtra End’Podcast. These ourincreased communicationsoutput. support further created accountsonYouTube, Instagram andLinkedIn andinorder to Facebook, Twitter ande-newsletterbroadcasting tool. Additionally, we shared onanumberofourestablishedplatformsincludingwebsite, methods suitingeachindividual,therefore themajorityofournews is We recognise theneedto interact withourmembersusingavariety of out inorder to provideresumed. afitforplay whensport surface regarding ongoingmaintenance andwhatessentialworkmay becarried Institute ofGroundsmanship) to produce guidanceforourmemberclubs in conjunctionwiththeGrounds ManagementAssociation(formally WeThe provision worked ofaqualityplaying isvitalforoursport. surface provided itallinoneplace. this periodofuncertainty, and sowecollatedallvarious opportunities place anumberofinitiatives to assistclubs andsmallcompaniesduring Englandandthegovernment wasavailable putin forthem.Sport support bills to bepaid, sowefelt itwasimperative to adviseourmemberswhat where there isthelossofregular incomewhilstthere are overheads and Clubs, countyassociationsandBowlsEnglandcontinueto faceaperiod changing situation, and we will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. similar in their nature. This continued to beupdated as wedealtwiththisever‐ Questions’ document inresponse to thefirst wave ofenquiries,whichwere Associations regarding the outbreak, andwe produced a ‘Frequently Asked Understandably, wewere inundatedwith enquiries from ClubsandCounty communications activity–informandentertain. we agreed two mainobjectives forour ofthecoronavirusAt pandemic, thestart COMMUNICATIONS Figures 2021) (at1stJanuary SUBSCRIBERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS 1,279 4,458 7,908 926 283 LIKES 17 GOVERNANCE WORKING SAFEGUARDING PARTY We have also been working in partnership with We recognise the importance of good governance the Bowls Development Alliance and other bowls in operating effectively, ensuring we are relevant NGBs, through the Safeguarding Bowls Panel, to in today’s society and securing the confidence increase our support of safeguarding processes of our stakeholders. We are committed to make to keep all young people and adults at risk safe. positive change in this area and, to that end, In addition to the guidance and templates that GOVERNANCE a Governance Working Party was formed to can be utilised by Clubs and County Associations, conduct a thorough review of our performance we introduced online safeguarding training in against the requirements of the Sports England order to increase the availability of education BOARD POSITIONS 2020 ANNUAL GENERAL Code for Sports Governance. to our volunteer workforce.

There have been a number of MEETING The group is chaired by our Director of changes to the Board throughout The AGM took place in Coventry in February Governance, Foster Johnson, and we were 2020, with 61 Delegates representing 33 OFFICE WORKING the year with David Tucker delighted to welcome Lindsay Collin, Jonathan Counties in attendance. It was resolved that Doust and Loretta Spridgeon to the group along The Covid-19 situation necessitated the staff replacing David Mitchell-Gears no change would be made to the Membership with our Independent Director Anna Molony. team to work remotely, introducing new systems MBE as Chair of Bowls England Affiliation Fees and National Championships Initial recommendations to the board will be and processes in order to function effectively as a in February 2020. David Tucker and Competition Entry fees for 2021. made in the first quarter of 2021. team and also deliver good quality service to our stakeholders. Investment has been made to our has served on the board for over A proposition was received from Norfolk IT capability to enhance productivity and to boost Bowling Association that ‘the first game MANAGEMENT AUDIT AND a decade and brings a wealth our security levels. of experience as a player and losers of the Amy Rose Competition play for REVIEW (MAR) COMMITTEE This experience, and the challenging financial administrator. an Amy Rose Plate.’ Following discussion and The Committee has held three meetings over the a formal vote, the motion was carried, offering past year, each split into two virtual sessions. situation, has led us to put the relocation of the Foster Johnson was elected as Director a further opportunity for our younger bowlers Following Foster Johnson’s election to the Bowls England offices to Victoria Lodge on hold. of Governance. Foster is no stranger to to experience competitive competition. Board, Steven Walker (North) was elected to In the short term, we will continue to be based at us, carrying out successful reviews of the the Committee and became Committee Chair Riverside House and will make some investments to Management Accounts, Risk Register and COUNTIES MEETINGS in April. The Committee has reviewed and improve the office environment for the staff team. Business Continuity Plan amongst others in his made recommendations to the Board on: Risk Birmingham 2022 will be pivotal to the future Throughout 2021, we will be previous role as Chair of the Audit and Review management plan and risk register; company success of our sport, and the Counties Meeting Committee. He was on the English Bowling policies list and review process; disaster plan; exploring ways in which the in November 2019 presented an opportunity Association’s Policy Committee and our Policy COVID 19 response; the Committee’s remit and for members to find out more about the plans staff team will embrace our new and Management Committee and is currently terms of reference; progress of recommendations from the Organising Committee’s Director of cultural values detailed in the leading our Governance Working Party’s work. made to the Board; and Company governance Sport, Matt Kidson. The Games will necessitate strategy, and also make a step structure. Sadly, we lost Ken Woodcock in Harry Nijjar was appointed as Independent changes to our competition programme in 2022, December – his insights and contribution change in areas such as our Director (Marketing and Communications) including our national finals, and the Counties to our discussions will be missed. induction programme. We will Meeting enabled us to highlight some of the following an external recruitment process. Harry work with volunteers at county runs a successful brand and communications opportunities as we began plans for the future. agency, and has been a key part of the 12 months later, we reconvened through the DISCIPLINE and club level to help support marketing working group’s projects in 2020. medium of Zoom and had a productive session We recognise the importance of empowering those giving so much to the with the Counties exploring our future strategy clubs to provide safe environments for our sport maximise their potential. In the latter part of the year, Mal Evans was and how we can collaborate on its delivery. sport to flourish. Over the last 12 months we re-elected to his position of Director of We also discussed our approach to the National have continued to support clubs and county Coaching. Open Weekend in 2021. associations in managing disciplinary matters, especially in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. All Clubs and County Associations are reminded, to ensure that the rules of natural justice are followed, that they must use Bowls England HELPING Regulation 9 (Misconduct) when dealing with all disciplinary matters and include due MAXIMISE reference within their governing documents. POTENTIAL

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 19 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 Middleton Cuponnumerous occasions,aswell He alsohelped hiscounty, Somerset,win the between 1966and1988. in total (five gold,three silver, three bronze) Outdoor Championships,securing eleven medals fourgoldmedalsattheWorldto winafurther at Kyeemagh, Australia, in1966andwenton He wontheinaugural World Outdoorsingles title on to claim singlesgold in1970, 1974 and 1978. secured Goldinboth the singles and fours. Hewent Australia, Commonwealth GamesinPerth, where he successes at the1962 British Empire and David claimed his first CommonwealthGames tofor services lawnbowls. playing. Hewasawarded the MBEandthenCBE and wasrenowned for usingatobacco pipewhilst He waswidelyrecognisable asthefaceofbowls Indoor Championshipsduringanillustriouscareer. Championship medalsandninetitlesattheWorld gold medals,eleven World OutdoorBowls David wonfive Commonwealth Games lawn bowlerofalltime, In August, wesaidgoodbye to thegentlemanregarded by manyasthegreatest IN MEMORIAM David CBE J.Bryant DAVID J. BRYANT CBE women’s foursandthe overall teambronze medal. New Zealand, securing asilver medal in the at the 1973 World Championships in Wellington, She won two outdoor World Championship medals English Women’s Bowling Associationin 1976. titles in 1956, before becomingPresident of the Nancie won thefirst ofherthree NationalSingles tothe MBEforservices bowls. Leamington Spa,andinthesameyear received World Championships atVictoria Park, Royal behind thehostingof1996Women’s Shewasthedrivingforce toservice thesport. of bowlsforhermanydedicatedyears of Nancie wasrespected across theworld Association, passed away in July atthe age of 101. Bowling Board and the EnglishWomen’s Bowling former President of the International Women’s occasions. being crowned National Championon16further NANCIE COLLING MBE (SOMERSET), (Somerset), attheageof88. 1931-2020

Selector andEBAExecutive Member Management andAudit Review Committee Bowls Councilandamember of the Bowls England Executive ofthe EBA, treasurer forthe British Isles - former AssistantSecretary ofthe EBA Dennyside Bowling Association. and Trustee. Roy wasalso a Life Member of the 1970 to 1985 as wellChairman, Life Member Town where heheldthepositionsof President from and a major figure in thehistory ofMaidenhead of our sport in 1991. Roy wasa great supporter level, whichincluded as thePresident ofthe EBA held anumberof roles at Club, County and National Association for23years from 1984to 2007. forEssexCountyWomen’sSecretary Bowling Spa in1996and2004,additionto beingthe were heldatVictoria Park, Royal Leamington the Women’s World BowlsChampionshipsthat oftheadministrativepart teamthatassistedat EWBA NationalChampionships.Joanwasalso volunteering inthe Tournament Officeduringthe to theEnglishWomen’s BowlingAssociation, for boththeEBAandBowlsEngland. of CommitteesatClub,CountyandNationallevel, Scheme formanyyears, onanumber andserved theEnglishBowlsYouthsupported Development ofyouth bowlingandgenerously supporter away attheageof88.Billwasatremendous the EnglishBowlingAssociationin1998,passed DEREKJOHNSON (SUFFOLK) DRAPERDON (DURHAM) WOODCOCKKEN (SUSSEX) INCHFRED (DURHAM/NORTHUMBERLAND) ROY THOMAS (ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE), JOANLEON (ESSEX) BILLHATTO (SURREY), INTERNATIONAL PLAYER OFFICIALS Sir Bobby Charlton in2002 Torch Trophyfrom TrustAward Nancie CollingMBE received the dedicatedmanyyears who wasPresident of - formerInternational

- former Deputy Chief - former Deputy Chief

- 1971‐1972, 1977 - 1971‐1972, 1977 Ken Woodcock –Sussex2005 Mavis Withers –Yorkshire 1999 Ted Wilks-Lincolnshire 1999 David White–Herefordshire 2000 Gordon Walker -Yorkshire 1999 Roy Thomas – Berkshire 1988 Keith Taylor -Hampshire 2019 2001 Roy Sylph-Northumberland 1998 Bill Stoker -Northumberland Colin Smith–Middlesex2006 Jean Simmons–Warwickshire 2004 Margaret Seabrook -Yorkshire 1993 Lea Robinson-Leicestershire 1991 Ingrid Robinson-Yorkshire 2000 Ellen Phillips–Kent 2020&2021 –OxfordshireJulia Perry 1995 Lew Mockett –Sussex2006 Charles McCain-Durham2000 Jean Lyons-Hill -Berkshire 1998 Margaret Lloyd –Kent 1990 Joan Leon–Essex1981 Elisabeth Kirkpatrick-Leicestershire 2002 Donald KingBEM–Hampshire 2002 George Kent -Bedfordshire 1985 Tom 2004 Kenny –Northumberland John Jenkins-Leicestershire 2015 Cliff Jeffrey 1996 –Northamptonshire Tony Hutley –Hampshire 2001 Bill Hatto –Surrey 1991 Rod Harvey –Buckinghamshire 2015 Barbara Harsant-Warwickshire 1999&2012 John Greaves -Devon 2001 John Goble-Hampshire 2000 Mick Fulbrook -Yorkshire 2010 Eddie Evans -Surrey 2003 Chris Eales–Dorset1996 Dennis Cousens–Bedfordshire 1992 Jill Cook–Hampshire 2003 Rhiannon Butler-Kent 2015 Sheila Brownrigg -IsleofWight2005 George Bridge-Somerset1998 Alice Boon–Leicestershire 1981 Bette Bolton -Leicestershire 2001 Geoff Bladen–Lancashire 1999 Mike Birch -Devon 2018 Nancy Bennett–Dorset2000 Joe Barrass –Sussex 1998 Maureen Ayling –Middlesex2005 Sheila Ashenhurst–Essex1993 Ray Aldridge–Dorset2001 Pauline Adams–IsleofWight2001 COUNTY PRESIDENTS 21 EXPENDITURE

In 2019 Expenditure was £1.02m. In 2020 this reduced to £712k largely, but not entirely, due to the cancellation of Championships and Competitions. Savings were also made owing to the lack of international bowls, whilst our salary bill remained as budgeted owing to the decision not to take advantage of the government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

The result was a £595,576 loss for the year. However, since unification we have built up our reserves, were able to absorb this year’s loss and remain in a relatively healthy financial position.

FINANCES THE BALANCE SHEET (All dates refer to the year including year-end – our financial year being from October-September) FIXED ASSETS 2017 2018 2019 2020 NOTES Tangible Assets 10,280 5,860 24,057 22,960 2020 has been an unprecedented year for our sport. Investment Property 600,000 600,000 863,000 863,000 1 CURRENT ASSETS The decisions made in relation to affiliation and competitions detailed in this Annual Report are reflected Stocks 22,451 18,882 9,695 9,084 in our finances outcomes. Compared with previous years, income was down 90%, expenditure down 30% Debtors 84,770 427,607 437,549 517,537 2 and the surplus we have enjoyed in recent years became a large loss. Cash at Bank / In Hand 1,887,719 1,985,070 1,941,215 1,339,265 Creditors -118,096 -151,863 -120,052 -189,445 £1,400,000 TOTAL ASSETS 2,487,124 2,885,556 3,155,464 2,562,402

£1,200,000 NOTES £1,000,000 The old EBA Office in Worthing.Value at Unification: £222.758. Generates £43k per 1 annum £800,000 2 Includes Club Loans totalling £415k

£600,000

£400,000 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE IN AN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

£200,000 To reflect our new strategy and to ensure that financial information better follows our activities, the format in which financial information is reported has been changed and we will report now under new headings. £0 2018 2019 2020 It has not been our practice in recent years to allocate staff costs against the various activities of Bowls England, -£200,000 they are simply included within overheads. -£400,000 This will change going forward so that we can ensure our staff time is apportioned effectively and we can -£600,000 communicate the time being spend on specific areas of work.

-£800,000 As part of the work on our strategy, and resultant restructuring to reflect our strategic objectives, staffing cost INCOME EXPENDITURE PROFIT/LOSS will, in future, be allocated against the various parts of our activity. INCOME In 2021, the picture is detailed here, which demonstrates the emphasis we have, and will continue, to place on member services to support our affiliated clubs and counties. Our recent reorganisation will also place more Our 2019 income was £1.03m. The major sources were, as usual, Affiliation Fees and Championship emphasis on resource to promote the sport and also generate commercial income. and Competition entry fees. INCOME 2018 2019 2020

Other Affiliation Championship Member Services £556,345 £547,973 £7,943 Worthing £68,237 Fees Competition Fees Property Rental £900 £0 Competitions £159,970 £144,314 £6,196 Overheads £43,000 9% National Championships £193,828 £196,758 £0 Brand Sponsorship Internationals £88,268 £2,953 £766 10% & Donations Merchandising Commercial £120,729 £122,412 £96,322 £71,969 £27,890 Affiliation Overheads £12,721 £13,858 £5,597 Merchandising Other 2019 Fees £38,073 2020 Commercial £66,073 £523,745 Total £1,131,861 £1,028,268 £116,824 4% Sponsorship ALLOCATION Membership INCOME INCOME & Donations EXPENDITURE Internationals Services £6,962 6% OF STAFF 53% £1.03M £116K Member Services £64,209 £65,727 £42,031 Championship Coaching COSTS Competition Worthing Competitions £57,296 £55,567 £2,506 2% Fees Property Rental £255,244 National Championships £119,891 £130,779 £575 Championships £43,000 10% Internationals £224,793 £151,466 £69,111 Competitions Coaching £671 £19,864 £30,470 6% In 2020, we generated just £116k of income after: Commercial £41,506 £43,217 £37,548 Brand, Communications £490 £25,096 £10,925 • £500k of Affiliation fees were returned to our clubs in order to assist their financial stability and Marketing • £140k of Championship Entry Fees were returned to counties Overheads £540,109 £529,517 £519,237 • £120k of Competition Entry fees were held over for 2021 TOTAL £1,048,965 £1,021,231 £712,403

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 23 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE 2020 LOOKING FORWARD Our Strategy for the next 5 years will see some changes to the volume COMPARISON 2019/2020 2019 2020 INCOME EXPENDITURE INCOME EXPENDITURE and sources of our income and expenditure as we invest in developing Member Services 547,973 65,727 7,943 42,031 and promoting our sport and developing new income streams. Competitions 144,314 55,567 6,196 2,506 This will see changes in the sources of our income as we aim to grow our commercial income and event Championships 196,758 130,779 - 575 related revenue streams, and become less reliant on affiliation fees and competition entry fees: Internationals 2,953 151,466 766 69,111

Coaching - 19,864 - 30,470 PROJECTED INCOME AND EXPENDITURE 2021 - 2026 Commercial 122,412 43,217 96,322 37,548 1,800,000 Brand Communications - 25,096 - 10,925 1,600,000 & Marketing Overheads 13,858 529,517 5,597 519,237 1,400,000 TOTAL 1,028,268 1,021,231 116,824 712,403 1,200,000

Profit/(Loss) 7,037 (595,579) 1,000,000

800,000 MEMBER SERVICES COACHING INCOME 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 600,000 Affiliation Fees 523,745 900 AGM 6,552 6,654 BE Contribution to Coach Bowls 18,161 30,470 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 Documentation Fee Counties Coach Bowls (BDA) 1,687 12,726 6,939 4,512 5,440 TOTAL INCOME TOTAL EXPENDITURE Club Loans Meetings Coaching Meetings 15 Regional Other 11,501 104 7,551 2,149 TOTAL 19,864 30,470 Meetings Celebration 6,531 1,440 Brand, Brand, Matches Expenses COMMERCIAL communications Overheads communications Donations BDA 17,500 5,230 INCOME 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 & Marketing Overheads & Marketing 0% 0% Bursaries 9,817 4,141 Commission / Annual dinner 0% 0% 22,106 7,448 21,302 21,751 ACEIT Royalty expenses Coaching Coaching Go Membership 7,550 12,000 Commercial 0% 0% HQ Rental Commercial Greens Merchandise - Internationals 8% & Insurance 44,150 44,189 7,804 2,086 23% Maintenance 3,450 4,225 Cost of Sales 8% Advisory Scheme Income Potters - Other 2,264 753 Annual Dinner 17,616 15,523 contributions to 5,605 5,463 Income TOTAL 547,973 7,943 TOTAL 65,727 42,031 clubs / expenses Internationals Merchandise Year Book 6% 11,331 3,341 8,505 8,248 Sales Costs Membership Membership COMPETITIONS Potters National Services Services 9,240 8,720 2021 2026 INCOME 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 Income Championships 48% 40% 19% Sponsorship / Competitions Year Book INCOME INCOME 28,162 6,196 20,225 0 17,968 17,101 Donations Prizes Sales Competitions Entry Fees 116,152 0 24,322 0 TOTAL 122,412 96,322 TOTAL 43,217 37,548 Travel National Other 11,020 2,506 BRAND COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING Championships TOTAL 144,314 6,196 TOTAL 55,567 2,506 Competitions 20% Competitions EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 17% 11% CHAMPIONSHIPS Marketing 9,815 INCOME 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 Website Development & Maintenance 25,096 1,110 Sponsorship / TOTAL 25,096 10,925 Where we spend will also change due to costs associated with new income 40,854 0 Prizes 19,000 0 Donations Travel & generation and making the National Championships more of a spectator Entry Fees 139,093 0 34,811 0 OVERHEADS Subsistence INCOME 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 Sponsors Tent / event. We also hope to reduce our subsidy of Coach Bowls. Sundry Other 16,812 0 Other Sponsor 20,731 575 13,858 5,597 Accountancy & Audit 12,047 11,656 Costs Income Board Meetings 12,399 10,388 Overheads Overheads Other 56,237 0 21% 13% TOTAL 196,758 0 TOTAL 130,779 575 Staff Costs 315,220 379,968 Brand, Ceremonial Officers Membership communications Membership 14,899 564 & Marketing INTERNATIONALS Allowance / Regalia Brand, Services Services 28% 8% 24% INCOME 2019 2020 EXPENDITURE 2019 2020 Office / Administration communications 27,251 15,373 & Marketing Sport England Expenses 0 0 Atlantic Championships 23,780 0 8% / CWG Safeguarding 161 20,934 Sponsorship / Commercial Commercial 2,953 766 CWG Expenses 1,033 8,059 Service Contracts 16,840 2,366 2021 2026 Donations 2% 12% Bank Charges and Competitions Junior International / 10,869 8,856 EXPENDITURE EXPENDITURE 22,374 2,174 Interest Paid Competitions 7% BIBC / BIWBC 5% Other 50,309 16,689 Coaching Senior International / 47,960 3,319 3% Coaching BIBC / BIWBC Corporation tax 5,140 4,145 1% World Bowls Ltd. Fees 45,045 45,946 Depreciation 15,243 15,944 National National Championships Championships European Insurance: Office 11,957 11,800 3,555 0 Internationals 12% 14% Championships Internationals Irrecoverable VAT 37,181 20,555 21% 21% Other 7,718 9,613 TOTAL 13,858 5,597 TOTAL 529,517 519,237 International Costs TOTAL 2,953 766 TOTAL 151,466 69,111 Full details of the 2019/20 Statutory Accounts are available on the Bowls England website.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 25 ANNUAL REPORT 2020 of the strategy and checked andchallenged stakeholders, wehave worked up the contents findings detailed here. Inconjunction with key significant research phasewithaflavour ofthe The strategy development hasinvolved a • • • • • our newstrategy will: We hopeEngland andoursport. the future direction ofBowls the capacityfreed upto explore wheel’ ofournormalworkwas and getting offthe‘hamster’s One ofthebenefits ofCovid-19 BACKGROUND STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT 2021-26 voice, buildingawareness, equityandtrust. wewillbeableto talkwithone As asport a difference andwhyanyone shouldcare. we are to trying achieve, whywecanmake whywe exist, what Enable usto articulate relationships. increase the chances ofbuildingnew thus in themindsofprospective partners, andstimulateopportunity current partners Build confidence andenthusiasm amongst a more can-do,optimisticculture. and problems into context,helpingengender bring aboutpositive change.Itwillputissues Explain the broader direction of travel to help focus forthestaffteam. It willcreate aclearsense of direction and allocate resources areas. to theimportant facilitate prioritisationandallowusto better Frame and guide ouroperational activities, to inspire ourvolunteers. to somethingbigger andwehopeitwillhelp a clearplan.Itwillcreate asenseofbelonging together, unitedbehindacompellingvisionand and ourstakeholders closer Bring oursport

community will get behind the new strategy and We much hope that the bowls very season starts. a more detaileddocument for launch before the strategy are detailed here and we will be developing on our culture and values. The key pillars of the recruit sympathetic with the work we have done capabilitytoadd the necessary the team.We will and are recruiting for new roles in order forusto areorganisation undertaken of the staff team it. Alongside a long term budget, we have also results willinformthe development of our strategy. through from the consultation process and the views to date. Manycommonthemescame contributions of allthosewhohave shared their We and value really the appreciate the support • • • • • sessions. The research included: surveys, workshops,focusgroups andone-to-one We thisworkthrough aseriesof undertook outside lookingin. clubs andcountyofficialsplusthose from the last few months–seekingtheviewsofplayers, journey withhigh levels ofconsultationover the We have already madesignificantprogress onthis and make decisionsbasedonthat insight. long-term success. We will listen to allstakeholders and that aculture of feedback will be integral to our We believe thattogether wecanachieve more that, together, we can grow andprogress our sport. CONSULTATION INSIGHT AND ‘Our Future’ e-mail Player, Cluband County Workshops Club Survey (September2020): 1,175 responses Survey (August 2020): Non-Participant 3,420 responses Survey (August 2020): Participant 974responses

• • • • CLUBSURVEY • • • • NON-PARTICIPANT SURVEY • • • • • • PARTICIPANT SURVEY management includingonline rinkbookingandcashlesspayments forthe There is significant support Annual income for the vast majority of clubsdoesnot exceed a‘pay asyou –particularly play’ introductory offerparticipants There is a very Recruitment andretention alongside like-minded friendsorfamilymembers Open Days orfree trialsessions, 69% who are Bowls saidthey considering trying wouldbeencouraged by ‘sociable’, and‘inclusive’ ‘friendly’ bowls topsCompared thelistforassociationwith to othersports, be willingto pay upto £5persession the majoritywouldwantto play fornomore thantwohoursandwould 55% ofrespondents to wouldwish play bowlsonceaweek and familycommitments are insport The three biggest barriersto participation increase ofawareness A more predominantly viae-mail/newsletter Two are thirds of participants most strongly withbowls friendly,Sociable, competitive andchallenging family commitments had Many current participants bigger driver forthosewhoplay competitively a clubopenday ofthosewho play socialbowlstookA higher proportion itupthrough Encouragement from friends/family relaxed dress gettingyounger code, people limited membership offer withlittle flexibility , whereas picking another sport to stay, whereas active pickinganothersport wasamuch andreturned whenthey hadmore time in the sport are highlightedaspriorities inthesport More detailed reports willbemadeavailableMore onourwebsite. detailed reports of participants are thetop twoprioritiesforclubs ofparticipants interested to hearmore from England Bowls taken abreak dueto from work/ thesport with66%encouraged by takingpart wider useoftechnology wasthebiggestmotivator to take upbowls SUMMARY OF KEY FINDINGS are words associated

into the sport and into thesport time, workcommitments Below isatasteofthesurvey findings. , and ofthese to assistclub £20,000 per annum fornew

attending

,

bowls is a sport suitableforall gender,bowls isasport perceptions, the majorityagree that Despite these potentially negative ages, ethnicities anddisabilities think bowls is mainly think bowlsismainly amount played per week by current for older people not sustainable participants is participants of club’s state 10hrs that they are membership The average think itistoo 25% 35% 58% at current levels slow

27 STRATEGIC CHALLENGES AND OBJECTIVES

During this discovery phase it became clear that there are a number of 3. 5. big strategic challenges that we face and which need to be tackled head TO SATISFY THE EVER- TO BE AN ADMIRED AND on in our strategy. CHANGING NEEDS OF OUR SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL

Even without considering the impact of Covid-19, as a sport we have been in slow decline with the numbers PARTICIPANTS TO HELP GOVERNING BODY of clubs and participants reducing year-on-year, and the average age of our participants increasing. THEM ENJOY A FULFILLING Bowls England is the ultimate custodian of our If nothing is done, this trend will only accelerate causing the economic model of our sport to become RELATIONSHIP WITH OUR lawn bowls. The effectiveness of our leadership even less viable and place significant strain our volunteer base. Simply, our sport needs to be more SPORT enables the sport’s voice to be heard, to foster relevant to more people which means creating ways in which a broader number of people can enjoy our positive change and harness the capabilities of Our sport will thrive if existing participants are sport. It means creating more choice for people wanting to play bowls, it means securing more commercial those who care about its future. revenue, it means making a case for greater government funding and it means changing perceptions. enjoying life-affirming experiences, extracting maximum enjoyment from their sport, broadening We will measure success by the reputation and All this is achievable. It will take hard work, a preparedness to evolve and real belief. The research proves their involvement with bowls and advocating levels of confidence our stakeholders have in why we should have huge confidence. Those who play the sport tell us they love it and there is a market it to friends and family. Bowls England. of non-bowlers out there who would happily give bowls a go. We will measure success by the satisfaction So, to overcome these challenges and take advantage of the opportunities, levels of its participants. Over the coming 5 years our we have identified five objectives. 4. work will be shaped by these 1. 2. TO NURTURE OUR over-arching objectives, BY CELEBRATING ITS TO OPEN UP THE VOLUNTEER WORKFORCE which will enrich the lives of VALUES AND QUALITIES, GATEWAYS TO OUR SPORT, TO HELP CULTIVATE more bowlers, help connect INSPIRE PEOPLE TO FEEL TO EMBRACE MORE VIBRANT AND SAFE communities and improve the BOWLS IS A SPORT WHERE PEOPLE IRRESPECTIVE OF ENVIRONMENTS FOR OUR health of our sport for future THEY’D BELONG THEIR BACKGROUND OR SPORT TO FLOURISH generations.

For it to grow, bowls must be perceived as CIRCUMSTANCE Our volunteers are the lifeblood of the sport and relevant in today’s society and people outside our Despite its uncomplicated nature, there are their endeavours directly affect the experience sport should consider it a credible option for their too many practical and perceived barriers to of its participants. We have a duty to provide valuable leisure time. This requires our sport to be getting involved in our sport. We must evolve to them the support and guidance commensurate more visible and for more people to understand complement 21st century lifestyles, have more to with this responsibility. IMPROVING the benefits it may bring. offer potential new players and help tackle deep- We will measure success by the number of rooted inequality in sports activity. THE HEALTH We will measure success by the sport’s awareness engaged volunteers and participant feedback on volunteer delivery. amongst prospective audiences and the level of We will measure success by the numbers of new OF OUR SPORT

positive public sentiment towards our sport. people engaging with our sport and the diversity FOR FUTURE of our sport’s participant-base. GENERATIONS

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 29 Led by our Board and Staff teams, we have developed a set of BEHAVIOURAL VALUES which we plan to live and breathe. OUR We won’t always get it right, but we will BE… COLLABORATIVE We believe that together we can achieve more. We share VALUES perspectives, seek out common goals and perform tasks with a mind-set of respect, trust and co-operation. We appreciate the varied What we do is critical, but how we go about contributions of those around us and are prepared to challenge those it is just as important. We have listened to who do not have the wider interest of the sport at heart. people and reflected on the way we have gone about our work in the past. At times ADAPTABLE we have been somewhat distant and cold, We will strive to be relevant in the ever-changing environment and maybe on occasions a little officious in which we live. We will be open-eyed and open-minded to the and bureaucratic. As a sport we have not opportunities ahead of us, we will listen to others and we will display always been confident to embrace change a can-do attitude. Whilst we remain steadfast in our purpose, we recognise the importance of being flexible in our approach. and so we have been left behind. We have overseen a fragmented environment, rather than leading a culture of togetherness. RESPONSIBLE As custodians of our sport, we are committed to leaving it in a better

place than we found it. We will be focussed in our mission, we will be proactive, we will be accountable for the decisions we make and we will be conscientious in our duties. We learn from our bad days and celebrate our good ones, knowing we will start afresh tomorrow.

We will be producing a separate document with full details of our 2021-26 Strategy. If you would like to ENCOURAGING We will harness the energies of those around us through our receive a digital copy, please sign up to receive our friendly, positive yet resilient demeanour. We will enable others to newsletters on the Bowls England website. imagine what is possible, empower them to fulfil their potential and support them at times of need. Our words and actions will be motivational and embolden our sport in its future endeavours.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 31 THE YEAR AHEAD COMMERCIAL NATIONAL OPEN WEEKEND • Generate new sponsorship income – FRIDAY 28TH TO MONDAY • Scope Bowls England Supporters Club 31ST MAY 2021 As we look towards the spring and the Covid-19 vaccination programme concept ahead of Birmingham 2022 Our research shows that over 20% of bowlers begin being rolled out, we are hoping the 2021 season will be able to start as normal. • Enhance retail range and marketing around playing off the back of club open days. With this insight, key periods It is likely that there will be restrictions in some form for the foreseeable future, and we are planning for a support from counties and following the success of number of scenarios, but we hope you will all be able to start bowling and that competition will resume. BRAND, our Let’s Roll marketing initiative, plans are already We have an ambitious work programme for 2021 and below are some of the key areas of focus. COMMUNICATIONS underway for a national recruitment initiative for the & MARKETING Spring Bank Holiday of the 2021 season. CLUB SERVICES NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Our insight suggests that this is the optimal time as it • Develop a brand and communications • Deliver a quality service to club leaders on core • Deliver the National Championships providing strategy and refresh Bowls England will give clubs a few weeks of the season to prepare and current offer, introduce new club services and a great player experience templates promote their activity, greens to be up to speed to ensure a improve the communications to clubs • Scope a new spectator experience for 2022 better experience for potential new recruits and (hopefully) • Develop and deliver an annual • Develop and deliver a National Open Weekend implementation warmer weather than is usually experienced earlier in the communications plan encouraging 4000 new people to try bowls • Plan contingency arrangement and Covid-19 season to attract the widest possible audience. • Evolve website site structure and improve • Introduce a National Volunteering Strategy related delivery website content With a window of four days for the national campaign including an annual Awards event • Develop a new long-term partnership with • Secure e-newsletter platform and begin rather than a single day, we trust this will enable clubs to • Develop a new Bursary policy linking to Warwick District Council expansion of e-communications organise activity that best fits within their club’s calendar. strategic outcomes • Enhance media content from the event For example, any activity on the Friday night could lend • Advance our knowledge and delivery in OVERHEADS itself to a ‘social’ event whilst a Saturday or Sunday safeguarding INTERNATIONAL BOWLS • Progress policy updates as approved by board morning session may be more attractive to families. • Enhance relationships with key partner • Deliver BIWBC 2021 effectively and in July 2020 organisations such as the BDA, DBE, EIBA, efficiently It will be for clubs themselves to determine exactly and BCGBA • Progress Governance Working Party work and • Compete successfully in BIBC/BIWBC what day/times suit them – there is no expectation that recommendations • Develop a Diversity and Inclusion strategy Seniors and Junior events, and the World clubs will organise activity on every day. Our role will be • Develop and implement a three-year IT Plan to provide guidance on how to run your National Open COMPETITIONS Championships • Explore the development of a Talent Pathway • Develop and implement an HR Strategy Weekend experience, resources to support every affiliated • Effectively manage the competitions season strategy • Drive down costs on non-strategic items club that signs up and training for club volunteers. We will maximizing player experience support your efforts with a national media campaign so • Improve Performance structures, processes, • Maximize Board effectiveness • Effectively manage the experience of National culture and funding together we can grow participation within our clubs. Championships and Competitions qualifiers • Deliver Performance Operations effectively OTHER To ensure we make the most of this initiative and • Develop a new competition structure for 2022 • Increase awareness and perception of bowls • Launch and implement Bowls England with our support, clubs will be expected to host a with implementation plan through international bowls 2021-26 strategy great event, inform us about the new recruits that are • Nurture our relationship with EBUA to ensure • Develop Commonwealth Games introduced and put on sessions appropriate for new supply of quality officials for competitions COACHING engagement plan players in order to ensure they return after their Open • Develop new courses and qualifications for Weekend experience. existing and new markets At each Board meeting we provide • Evolve and grow Coach Bowls membership a progress update for discussion scheme and some of this detail can be Club resources and additional • Raise awareness of Coach Bowls through seen in the Board minutes and improved marketing and content information will be available accompanying synopsis, which very soon. are published on our website.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 33 BENEFITS OF AFFILIATION

Over 2,000 lawn bowls clubs affiliate to Bowls England and each receives GOVERNANCE • Ability to apply for a Tournament Licence to a series of exclusive benefits empowering club leaders to provide the best ensure your club’s events are run properly and • Free Legal Helpline to assist clubs across a prize funds are handled appropriately. possible environment bowlers. Affiliation also unlocks benefits that are range of issues for example leases, constitutions, • Discounted access to Bowls England events disciplinary matters and employment law. delivered through our development arm, the Bowls Development Alliance. such as dinners and awards ceremonies. • Guidance and support on club disciplinary The Club Services section on our website explores all these benefits and explains how clubs can make matters disputes, complaints and grievances to CLUB SUPPORT NETWORK the most of affiliation to Bowls England. A summary of these benefits can be seen below: help you navigate through challenging situations. • Access a team of Bowls England and Bowls • Access to up-to-date Health and Safety guidance • Access to Club Matters providing free, Development Alliance experts who can help PLAYER RECRUITMENT and support to avoid your club tripping up. convenient, practical resources to help your you make the most of affiliation. AND RETENTION • Access to the latest Covid-19 guidance, club to develop, grow and become more • Access to our monthly e-newsletter for club support and resources to help your club get • Opportunity to be part of the sport’s National sustainable and successful. leaders providing insight, advice and news back to bowls. Open Weekend in May 2021 and access free • Access to a wide range of officially related to club management. • Support, template policies, training and resources, guidance and training. Use of the recognized coaching and umpire courses and • Access to Facebook Groups to share best guidance in relation to safeguarding in order for National Open Weekend brand and have your qualifications through our delivery partners practice and network with other club leaders. event promoted through a national marketing Coach Bowls and the English Bowls Umpires your club members to enjoy our sport safely. campaign. Association. COMING FOR THE FACILITIES • Opportunity to access Play Bowls packages • Access to Bowls England webinars and 2021 SEASON… providing funding and resources to run bowls podcasts providing club leaders with advice • Access to our Greens Maintenance Advisory Informed by the Club Survey, the Bowls England Club taster sessions. and best practice on topics that have been Service providing free, practical and Services Team is currently exploring other benefits as • Access to national marketing and PR identified as important. independent advice to give your club the best we always look to provide more support to our clubs. possible playing surface. campaigns and initiatives including Let’s Roll • Opportunity to nominate individuals or your These include: and Women Can to help grow your club. club for National Awards such as the Merit • Opportunity to access a Greens Bursary saving • Grow your junior membership with access to Award so we can celebrate the unsung heroes successful clubs up to £200 per year on a • Ability for clubs taking part in the National Junior Development resources, ability to enter within our sport. Greens Maintenance qualification. Open Weekend to access an appearance from Bowls England Junior competitions and be part • Access to our quarterly e-newsletter for green- a Commonwealth Games Squad member. of the Junior Academy programme. FINANCE AND BUSINESS keepers called Cutting Edge providing insight, • Improved club resources to help you to run your club including updated Model Constitution, job • Your club featured on Bowls England’s online • Heavily discounted Civil and Employer’s Liability advice and offers to those who look after your descriptions for key club officers and financial Club Finder so newcomers can easily locate Insurance through trusted partner Sutton Winson, green. management advice your club. saving money on this essential requirement. COMPETITION AND EVENTS • Opportunities for your members and their • Access to Diversity and Inclusion support to • Access to an interest-free Club Loan to enable friends/families to raise funds for your club help your club broaden its playing base. clubs to make that important capital investment. • Ability to enter National Championships and Competitions and compete in the National Finals when they do their weekly shop. • Access to a free Grant Finder service enabling DEVELOPMENT AND at Victoria Park, Leamington Spa, venue for the • An online club membership management system clubs to identify potential funding opportunities Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. TRAINING and unlock new pots of money. • Online rink booking and cashless payment • Opportunity to access a Celebration Match, services. • Opportunity to benefit from a lubC • Opportunity to access bursaries delivering in which a Bowls England team led by its Development Programme delivered by significant savings for affiliated clubs on Coach President will play a club team to mark your For more details on these experts from our development arm, the Bowls Bowls coaching qualifications and EBUA special occasion or anniversary. Celebration services, please take a look at Development Alliance. The tailored programme umpire qualifications. Matches give clubs an opportunity to raise supports clubs across a whole range of areas the Club Services section on our awareness and generate income. such as club management, volunteering, website which will be evolving recruitment and coaching. over the coming months.

ANNUAL REPORT 2020 REPORT ANNUAL 35 Facebook: @bowlsengland Twitter: @BowlsEngland Instagram: bowlsengland YouTube: BowlsEnglandTV

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