Guidelines to Implement the INTERACT+ Theory of Action

Why Implement the INTERACT+ Theory of Action?

The global rise in physical inactivity and health inequalities underscores the need for a systemic transformation in the sport sector. ISOs and NFs must go beyond providing sporting opportunities—they must become active agents of change, using sport as a tool for inclusion, health, and community development.

By implementing the INTERACT+ Theory of Action, ISOs and NFs can:

• Expand participation by making sport accessible to all, including underrepresented groups.
• Strengthen organisational capacity to deliver sustainable programs.
• Align with broader public policy objectives, securing funding and stakeholder support.
• Enhance public perception of sport’s role in health and social cohesion.

Expected Outcomes and Long-Term Impact

By following these guidelines, ISOs and NFs can achieve:

• Increased participation in sports, particularly among marginalised communities.
• Enhanced governance and accountability in Sport for All programs.
• Sustainable partnerships and funding opportunities.
• Long-term social and health benefits for communities worldwide.
• Long-term policy and governance improvements in sport organisations.

The ultimate impact will be a more inclusive, healthier and socially connected sporting environment, where Sport for All becomes an integral part of national and international sports structures.

Key Steps for Implementation

1. Establish Strong Leadership and Governance

Appoint Quality Leaders and Staff

For successful implementation, leadership commitment is essential. ISOs and NFs must ensure that key decision-makers understand and support the transition toward Sport for All. To achieve this, there are a few key actions you can take:

• Secure a joint board decision to formally adopt a Sport for All orientation, ensuring alignment across leadership and reinforcing long-term commitment.
• Form a dedicated committee to design, implement and evaluate the program.
• Assign a coordinator to oversee Sport for All initiatives and ensure accountability.
• Conduct awareness sessions with executives, board members, and stakeholders.
• Integrate Sport for All objectives into the organisation’s strategic plan and policies.
• Develop clear guidelines and accountability measures for federations and clubs.
• Foster an engagement-friendly and welcoming organisational culture that encourages inclusivity, participation, and open dialogue among all stakeholders.

2. Conduct a Situation Analysis and Needs Assessment

Before launching a program, organisations must assess their readiness and identify gaps.

• Analyse the current landscape of sports participation within your federation.
• Engage stakeholders: athletes, coaches, volunteers, and communities to understand barriers and needs.
• Review past interventions to identify best practices and lessons learned.

3. Define Clear and Measurable Goals

A successful Sport for All strategy requires well-defined objectives.

• Set short-term, medium-term and long-term goals aligned with the INTERACT+ framework.
• Ensure goals are realistic, adaptable and responsive to organisational capacity.
  • Short-term goals (increasing awareness, training staff).
  • Medium-term goals (implementing new policies, launching pilot programs).
  • Long-term goals (sustained participation growth, policy change at national/international levels).

These goals should align with the broader INTERACT+ Capacity-Building Framework and consider the specific needs of different groups, such as marginalised communities, youth, and people with disabilities.

4. Design an Actionable Implementation Plan

Ensure Alignment with Club Responsibilities and User Needs

• Adapt programs to fit the existing structure of federations and clubs.
• Offer flexible, progressive implementation to allow for growth and adaptation.

Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns

• Increase program visibility through media coverage, events and digital campaigns.
• Conduct awareness training for leaders, coaches, and volunteers.

5. Build Capacity Through Training and Partnerships

• Deliver structured training for coaches, volunteers, and staff to support inclusivity.
• Establish mentorship programs to share expertise across organisations.
• Form partnerships with schools, NGOs, governments, and corporate sponsors.

6. Policy and Governance Improvements

• Integrate Sport for All principles into federation constitutions, policies and regulations.
• Create guidelines for clubs and regional bodies to ensure alignment with Sport for All strategies.
  • Example guidelines can be found in the INTERACT+ Pledge.

7. Implement, Monitor and Adapt

Measuring the effectiveness of the initiative is critical for long-term success. ISOs and NFs should:

• Pilot programs on a small scale, evaluating effectiveness and scaling gradually.
• Use evidence-based adjustments to improve program delivery over time.
• Regularly collect and analyse data on program impact and community feedback.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs), such as increased participation rates and improved access to sports for underrepresented groups.
• Conduct regular assessments and feedback loops to refine strategies.
• Celebrate success by recognising achievements, sharing impact stories, and showcasing progress through events, social media, and reports to inspire continued engagement.
• Share success stories and best practices to inspire further adoption.

To make informed decisions and improve programs, ISOs and NFs must track their progress and impact. Measuring participation rates, retention numbers, and feedback from participants provides valuable insights into what’s working and what needs improvement.

Data collection should include both quantitative and qualitative insights. While registration numbers, gender breakdowns, and club membership growth offer measurable indicators, participant feedback and personal stories provide the human perspective necessary for refining programs.

Challenges and Solutions

While implementing the INTERACT+ Theory of Action, ISOs and NFs may encounter various challenges. Below are some common obstacles and practical solutions:

Challenge: Lack of leadership commitment = Solution: Engage decision-makers with clear data on benefits.

Challenge: Resistance to change = Solution: Provide education on the added value of Sport for All.

Challenge: Limited financial resources = Solution: Leverage partnerships and seek funding opportunities.

Challenge: Unclear program execution = Solution: Offer structured guidelines and phased implementation plans.

Through INTERACT+ Capacity Building Trainings, the INTERACT+ Theory of Action has been implemented in ISOs and NFs all over the world. You can check out information about the trainings on our News page!

INTERACT+ Pledge

INTERACT+ Capacity Building Framework

Key Steps for Implementation

1. Establish Strong Leadership and Governance
2. Conduct a Situation Analysis and Needs Assessment
3. Define Clear and Measurable Goals
4. Design an Actionable Implementation Plan
5. Build Capacity Through Training and Partnerships
6. Policy and Governance Improvements
7. Implement, Monitor and Adapt