WOMEN and girls are more likely to play sport or exercise if there is more coverage of female athletes in the media, the Scottish Government has been told.
The Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Advisory Board found 95% of media coverage is dedicated to men’s sport and that increased levels of coverage of women’s sport have a positive impact on physical activity.
The group, made up of leaders from sport, business and media, has recommended a “media summit” be held to review existing coverage of female sport and called for “co-ordinated efforts across multiple sectors” such as health and education to increase participation.
Public Health Minister Joe FitzPatrick said: “Recent high-profile sporting events such as the football Women’s World Cup, the Solheim Cup and the Vitality Netball World Cup have been watched, enjoyed and experienced by huge audiences.
“By accepting the board’s recommendations we will work towards a level playing field where everyone is treated fairly and can achieve their full potential.”
Board chair Amanda Jones said: “We passionately believe that measures to increase activity levels of women and girls will make Scotland a better place to live for all.”
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