News & Updates

Over the past nine months, I have spent a significant amount of time listening to people across Crown Green Bowls, players, staff, volunteers, counties, leagues, clubs, officials, coaches and board members, to better understand both the strengths of our sport and the challenges and opportunities facing the Association.

One thing has become very clear during that time: Crown Green Bowls continues to be sustained by an extraordinary level of passion, commitment and volunteer goodwill. The sport has a proud history and strong community roots, and many people have dedicated huge parts of their lives to supporting and developing it.

At the same time, it is equally clear that the expectations placed on governing bodies today across sports are very different to those of previous generations.

Over recent months, the organisation has been reviewing a wide range of areas including governance, safeguarding, conduct and disciplinary processes, competitions, operational delivery, finance, communications and long-term sustainability. Through that work, a number of recurring themes have emerged.

In several areas, the current structure of the organisation is placing increasing pressure on volunteers, officers and staff. Some systems and processes have evolved over many years and are now becoming difficult to sustain against the operational, governance and safeguarding responsibilities expected of a modern National Governing Body.

This is not about criticising the past or the people who have helped build the sport. Quite the Opposite – The current structure reflects many years of committed service from individuals who have worked hard for the sport, often in challenging circumstances and with limited resources.

However, the review work undertaken over recent months has identified that the organisation now needs:

Alongside this, we have also recognised that some areas of the organisation currently rely heavily on individual knowledge and informal processes, creating challenges around continuity and resilience. The Board and leadership, therefore, believe that a period of modernisation and organisational reform is necessary if the sport is to remain stable, sustainable and capable of growing in the years ahead.

Part of this work includes the transition toward Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) status. This is an important step in strengthening the organisation’s governance framework, improving accountability, protecting volunteers and Board members through clearer legal structures, and increasing confidence with partners, funders and external organisations. CLG status is not a standalone change. It forms part of a broader programme of organisational development intended to help position BCGBA more effectively for the future.

As a result of this wider process, we will make some difficult decisions and structural changes that we believe are required and in the best long-term interest of the Association. These decisions are not being taken lightly, nor are they about moving away from the identity or traditions of Crown Green Bowls.

Its purpose is to help protect the long-term future of the sport, strengthen the organisation that supports it, improve consistency and resilience, and ensure that volunteers, clubs, counties and members are better supported moving forward.

Importantly, this process also represents an opportunity. An opportunity to modernise where needed while respecting the traditions of the sport. An opportunity to improve transparency, communication and trust. And an opportunity to build a stronger and more sustainable organisation for the next generation.

Over the coming months, the Board and leadership will continue to provide updates as this work progresses. We recognise the importance of clear communication during periods of change and will aim to be open and transparent wherever possible. Thank you to everyone who continues to contribute positively to the sport during this period of transition and development.

Whilst there are no specific dates to share, we will maintain open lines of communication. A further update will be provided WC 9 June, if you would like to contact me directly please make contact here.

Dan Newton, Chief Executive Officer – British Crown Green Bowling Association