A Step Forward for Inclusion in Esports: New EDI Checklist Launched
The esports industry has taken a major step towards greater accessibility and inclusion with the launch of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Checklist for People with Disabilities in Esports and Gaming – the first practical guide of its kind developed specifically for the sector.
Created by the University of West London (UWL), the checklist provides actionable steps that educators, tournament organisers, and esports teams can take to make their environments more inclusive for people with disabilities — whether as players, coaches, analysts, or fans.
A Collaborative Industry Milestone
The project was led by Dr Faithfull Gonzo, Senior Lecturer in Event Management at UWL, alongside Ryan Callard(Lecturer in Games, Media and Music) and Dr Malte Ressin (Associate Professor in Computer Science). The checklist was developed through panel discussions and focus groups involving educators and industry professionals, as part of the university’s Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF).
NTesports was proud to play a part in this process. Managing Director Nik Turner contributed to the consultation group during a conference day at the University of West London, where stakeholders from across education and industry came together to share insights and best practice.
“I was really pleased to be part of this project, it’s a real step forward for inclusion in esports,” said Nik Turner.
“The checklist gives every organisation, big or small, the tools to make esports accessible for all.”
A Practical Tool for Change
The EDI Checklist is a free-to-use, self-assessment tool designed to help small and emerging organisations make measurable progress towards inclusion. It covers key areas such as:
> Awareness and Education – promoting understanding of different disabilities and inclusive language
> Programme and Competition Design – ensuring tournaments and events are accessible and adaptable
> Physical and Digital Accessibility – improving access across venues, platforms, and communication tools
> Recruitment and Outreach – encouraging participation and representation from disabled players and staff
> Monitoring and Continuous Improvement – reviewing, reflecting, and celebrating inclusive practices
It’s designed to be simple to apply and highly actionable, giving organisations of any size a clear roadmap to improve equity and accessibility.
As Faithful Gonzo wrote when announcing the checklist:
“As esports continues to grow, it’s vital that accessibility and inclusion aren’t left behind.
This checklist helps small organisations make real, measurable changes – building awareness, empathy, and better environments for everyone involved.”
Driving Inclusion Across Education and Esports
For educators, the checklist offers an invaluable framework to embed EDI principles directly into teaching, facility management, and event organisation. With the growth of esports courses and qualifications across UK colleges, it provides a timely and practical tool for ensuring that inclusion remains at the heart of programme delivery.
The document also reflects a growing awareness across the esports ecosystem – from grassroots communities to higher education and professional events, that inclusivity must underpin the industry’s growth.
Download and Learn More
The full Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Checklist for People with Disabilities in Esports and Gaming is available now via the University of West London website or you can download by clicking the button below.
NTesports would like to congratulate Dr Faithful Gonzo and the UWL team for their leadership in driving forward this essential piece of work, a true example of collaboration between education and industry for a better, more inclusive future in esports.
Further Information
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Checklist for People with Disabilities in Esports and Gaming
Developed by: Dr Faithful Gonzo, Ryan Callard, and Dr Malte Ressin
University of West London, July 2025
