Grassroots Sport Needs More Backing

The bi-annual Sported Grassroots Sport Survey examines the state of community sports in the UK, focusing on groups delivering physical activity to young people. The report highlights the challenges, sustainability, and growth opportunities for grassroots organisations. Its goal is to amplify the voices of community groups and inform decisions around funding, resources, and policy. The survey was completed between November 11th and 28th, 2024, capturing insights from 489 community leaders across the UK. 

The research aims to address the struggles of non-commercial sports groups and increase support for their vital work with young people. It advocates for better investment in grassroots sports to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of youth, especially in underserved areas. The findings show that while 94% of leaders are confident about their organization’s short-term survival, only 74% feel secure in the long term. The primary concerns are securing funding (82%), engaging new participants (71%), retaining existing ones (56%), and recruiting volunteers (53%). 

This collaboration between Sported, the UK’s largest sports charity, and home security company Ring, represents groups reaching around 52,000 young people. Despite being underfunded and understaffed, Sported provides essential resources and support to help these groups thrive. The report emphasizes the positive impact of community sports on young people's physical and mental health, especially in disadvantaged areas. However, rising costs and transportation challenges lead to lack of participation for many young people. 

Leaders are calling for increased government investment in community sports to ensure equal access to physical activity for all youth. Climate change is also affecting participation, with issues like flooded pitches, extreme weather, and limited indoor spaces, which are further exacerbated by the costs of maintaining venues. The report stresses the need for greater support to overcome these barriers and ensure the long-term success of community sports programs. 

The results of this report, including addressing inequality and climate impact on sport, align with the strategic goals of the Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership (HSP) and are supported by our collaborative working to improve the lives of the people of Hertfordshire - using the power of sport and physical activity to tackle inequality and disadvantage.

Please click here to find out about the current projects we are involved in or visit our Insights webpage to find out how data and information can support your work.

To view the full report please visit https://sported.org.uk/grassroots-sports-calls-for-extra-assist