The Active Standard will unify and raise standards in the UK

Huw Edwards CEO ukactive

In late 2020, ukactive’s then Chair, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, set out a vision for standards in the sector going forward. At that time, the sector – like all the nation – was a hostage to the COVID-19 pandemic, with facilities in and out of operation and a deeper lockdown incoming in early 2021. It was our ability to prove our safety in 2021 that saw physical activity facilities opening earlier than other sectors and services, saving our collective industry hundreds of millions in the process.

Tanni projected that standards would play an even bigger role in our sector going forward with “trust being everything… for our customers, our lawmakers, and our future partners” and that we now face issues that are more than just health and safety – that equally, societal issues will ultimately define reputations.

TAS is a baseline certification aligned with the industry’s existing standard schemes, FITcert and Quest

In that vision for standards, Tanni set out the path that leads to a major milestone today: the launch of The Active Standard.

The standard, known also as ‘TAS’, has been designed for all operator members – whether from the private, public or independent parts of the sector – and comes free of charge as part of a ukactive membership.

‘TAS’ is a baseline certification aligned with the industry’s existing standard schemes, FITcert and Quest, and provides an opportunity for operators to demonstrate their quality and compliance with UK law, therefore building consumer trust and improving reputation and resilience.

To achieve The Active Standard, operator members are assessed by a third-party assessment body against a strict criteria covering requirements for health and safety compliance, professional standards, safeguarding measures and data protection. Certification lasts three years before re-assessment is required to ensure standards are maintained.

We want TAS to provide current and future ukactive operators with the confidence that they are meeting key legal requirements and wider standards. We want it to reassure them that they’re successfully operating within the ever-changing and complex regulatory world while anticipating the changes in societal and customer need that supports their inclusive services.

TAS marks a significant milestone for the entire sector as we unite to raise standards at fitness and leisure facilities right across the UK.