The BAC and Commonwealth Games England have agreed a partnership for Birmingham 2022 ©BAC

The British Athletes Commission (BAC) is set to assist Commonwealth Games England with the finalisation of selection policies for Birmingham 2022 under the terms of a new deal between the two bodies.

Commonwealth Games England and the BAC have signed a partnership prior to next year's Games in Birmingham.

It will see the BAC "review and feed back on all selection policies, using the organisation’s experience and expertise within cross-sport selection environments to advise on policies and provide an independent voice on panels", Commonwealth Games England said.

The BAC will also have a role in the team member agreement signed by athletes before they represent the country at the event.

"Our team has varied and extensive experience working with national governing bodies in order to represent the needs of athletes, and it’s fantastic that Commonwealth Games England has both recognised this and taken action towards ensuring that such key policies are truly representative and as athlete-focused as possible," said BAC chief operating officer Sarah Newton.

"As part of this agreement, we’ll review the selection policies of all sports - whether they are in receipt of UK Sport funding or not - making sure that all those vying for selection for Team England can be assured that they will receive a consistent level of expert, passionate and thorough level of representation."

Swimmer Aimee Willmott said the agreement was important for the athlete voice ©Getty Images
Swimmer Aimee Willmott said the agreement was important for the athlete voice ©Getty Images

The BAC said it has "taken proactive steps to offer a similar service to teams representing the other home nations ahead of the Games."

Swimmer Aimee Willmott, Commonwealth Games England Board member and deputy chair of the Team England athlete advisory group, also welcomed the move.

It comes amid a concerted push for athletes to have a greater say in decision-making in sport.

"The athlete voice is absolutely critical in delivering a successful team," said Willmott.

"I’m really pleased with this partnership with the BAC and look forward to our engagement with them to ensure Team England athletes will be supported at the Birmingham 2022 home Games. 

"It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Team England athletes to compete in front of their friends and family and I’m delighted to know that their views will be considered every step of the way."

The 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham are due to run from July 28 to August 8.