A three-year project has been launched to help develop the skills and experience of 11 women working in British sport to assist them take on senior management roles.

The Women and Leadership Development Programme has been developed by UK Sport, in partnership with the Central Council of Physical Recreation (CCPR) and the British Olympic Foundation (BOF) to help improve women's representation in the highest ranks of sport.

The 11 participants will have individual development plans which will help identify skills and knowledge requirements to help them broaden their experience of working in sport.

The work will take several forms, from workshops and seminars to attending international events, and a number of mentors will be made available to help provide additional support and advice.

Sue Campbell, chair of UK Sport, said she hoped the programme would inspire the next generation of female administrators: "Not only will these women directly boost the level of representation in leadership positions, their achievements will encourage and inspire others to strive for similar heights."

The 11 selected participants are: Emma Atkins, sportscoachUK; Penny Briscoe, British Paralympic Association; Melanie Curds, UK Athletics; Danielle Every, Football Association; Alison Faiers, England and Wales Cricket Board; Lyne Greenwood, Northern Ireland Sports Forum; Sue Hornby, British Canoe Union; Margaret Nolan, British Cycling; Emma Reed, British Judo Association; Lucy Smith, British Gymnastics; Heather Williams, British Triathlon.