Empowering Growth in Bowls: How the Club Health Checker is Transforming the Game
At the Bowls Development Alliance (BDA), we believe that thriving clubs are the backbone of a vibrant sporting community. Since launching our Club Health Checker in December 2021, we’ve seen first-hand how a simple, tailored tool can ignite meaningful change. Four hundred clubs have already taken advantage of this free online self-assessment, unlocking insights to tackle challenges and harness growth opportunities.
What is the Club Health Checker?
The Club Health Checker has been developed in collaboration with key partners to serve clubs across a wide range of bowls disciplines. We work closely with Bowls England (Outdoor Flat Green), the English Indoor Bowling Association (Indoor Flat Green), the English Short Mat Bowls Association (Short Mat), and the British Crown Green Bowling Association (Crown Green). This ensures that the tool delivers specific insights and tailored support for each format, helping clubs address their unique challenges.
This 45-minute questionnaire provides a deep dive into a club’s operations, highlighting strengths and pinpointing areas for improvement. On completion, clubs receive a personalised report packed with targeted resources and actionable recommendations.
This tool doesn’t aim to deliver a verdict of ‘pass or fail.’ Instead, it equips committees with the knowledge to make data-driven decisions, enabling them to strengthen participation, boost member engagement, and secure long-term growth. Whether your club is looking to attract new players, retain existing members, or enhance governance, the Club Health Checker provides a clear roadmap for progress.
Why Annual Self-Assessment Matters
We encourage clubs to make the Health Checker an integral part of their annual strategy. Just as players continuously refine their skills, clubs must also adapt and evolve. Regular self-assessment helps clubs stay on top of emerging challenges, celebrate achievements, and set new goals.
The tool is designed to foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that every club – no matter its size, level or code – can reach its full potential. By using the Health Checker annually, clubs can track progress over time, ensuring sustained development year after year.
A Model for Other Sports Organisations
The success of the Club Health Checker offers a valuable case study for sports organisations looking to support their clubs. It demonstrates the power of providing tailored, practical tools that empower grassroots communities. The simplicity, accessibility, and actionable insights of the Health Checker make it a standout initiative in sports development.
At the BDA, we’re proud of the positive impact this tool is having on the bowls community. We’re excited to continue supporting clubs on their journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
To find out more visit Club health checker – Bowls Development Alliance.