Building the best environment in which Fencing can grow and thrive

In an environment where government is demanding increasing
governance compliance and responsibility, England Fencing does not
believe fencing is best served by two bodies investing significant resources doing the same
governance work for one sport. England Fencing and British Fencing have embarked upon
a collaboration to minimise the burdens compliance places on staff, volunteer directors and
officials and, most importantly, fencers.
We have collectively identified roles, responsibilities, strengths, weaknesses, priorities and
duplications with a mutual desire to provide the support and value that fencers expect of
both organisations.

British Fencing is the recognised National Governing Body by Sport England. England
Fencing supports British Fencing having the sole responsibility to act as the National
Governing Body for fencing in England. England Fencing will continue to work towards Tier
1 governance standards while focusing on delivering sport development activities at a
community level.

England Fencing intends to work in a more focussed project by project way to deliver
additional support to local communities, clubs and competitions. These projects will reflect
the needs of the community and the skillset of the EF volunteers. This will include potentially
harnessing and sharing the skills, experience and enthusiasm of those involved in
developing fencing at a regional and county level.

England Fencing will continue to take responsibility for all England representative fencing.
This includes Commonwealth Championships, Home Nations Challenges, rights to host
England Championships and selection for England representation at all levels.
While England fencers make up the overwhelming majority of British Fencers, England
Fencing believes that a clear delineation of roles and responsibilities is to the benefit of both
organisations and creates the best possible environment in which fencing can grow and
thrive in England.

England Fencing looks forward to working with all those who give their time and energy so
generously to our sport and our fencers.

Caryl Oliver
President, England Fencing