UK Coaching report highlights decline in female coaches and key industry trends

UK Coaching has released new research, conducted by YouGov, detailing the current state of coaching in the UK. The findings reveal significant challenges, including a sharp decline in female coaches, alongside positive trends such as increased professionalisation within the sector.

Key Findings

• Decline in Female Coaches: The proportion of female coaches has dropped from 44% in 2022 to 38% in 2024. UK Coaching is addressing this disparity through initiatives like its Gender Impact Strategy, partnerships with UK Sport, and targeted research to tackle systemic barriers.
• Professionalisation of Coaching: Paid coaching roles have risen from 38% in 2022 to 53% in 2024, with more coaches now considering coaching their primary occupation (up from 9% to 12%).
• Coaching at Higher Levels: The number of coaches working at academy level has doubled from 8% to 14%, while national-level coaching has increased from 3% to 6%.
• Support for Coaches: Over half (53%) of active coaches now receive mentorship or development support, up from 45% in 2022.

Reflections from Sector Leaders
Heather Douglas, Head of Coaching and Policy at UK Coaching, said: “The research has provided invaluable insights into the current state of coaching. While there have been positive shifts in terms of the professionalisation of coaching and support for coaches, we must continue to focus our efforts on ensuring gender equality and creating a more inclusive coaching landscape for women.”

Phil Smith, Sport England Executive Director of Partnerships, added: “The decline in the number of female coaches is especially concerning, and Sport England will continue to do all we can to grow the number of women coaching through our investments and support of the Women in Coaching Taskforce.”

Lisa West, Head of Policy, Partnerships and Public Affairs at Women in Sport, said: “At least 50% of coaches across sport should be female, but we know this is not yet the case. As this report highlights, the number of women in coaching roles is declining. By raising the profile of the brilliant female coaches we already have, we aim to inspire women and girls and build a sporting culture where everyone can truly thrive.”

For more insights, download the full Coaching in the UK 2024 report: UK Coaching Research.