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5 Oct 2025 | 10:10

Launched on 25 September 2025, the Pride in Place Strategy empowers local communities by shifting power and funding away from Westminster to strengthen places and support disadvantaged areas. Sport plays a central role, uniting communities, improving health, and empowering young people.

Investing in Grassroots Facilities

  • £400m for new and upgraded local sports facilities.
  • Neighbourhood Boards, including residents, decide how funding is spent.
  • Impact Fund supports public spaces, play areas, and leisure facilities.
  • Why it matters: Modern, safe facilities increase participation and reduce inequalities.

Enhancing Community Cohesion

  • Clubs can improve or take ownership of local assets.
  • Community-led projects ensure funding meets local needs.
  • Sporting Assets of Community Value protections secure key grounds.
  • Partnerships with national bodies strengthen grassroots venues.
  • Why it matters: Local ownership boosts social cohesion, volunteerism, and community networks.

Promoting Health and Physical Activity

  • Community programmes can reduce inactivity by 2.5% in deprived areas.
  • £250m from Sport England funds 100 place-based health initiatives.
  • Green Infrastructure ensures every home is within a 15-minute walk of sports spaces.
  • Why it matters: Accessible spaces keep residents, especially youth, active and healthy.

Empowering Young People

  • Cadet Forces expansion by 30% in deprived areas improves education and job prospects.
  • Sports organisations foster inclusion, confidence, and life skills.
  • Why it matters: Engaging youth in sport reduces isolation and strengthens communities.

Get Involved

  • Join Neighbourhood Board discussions.
  • Apply for funding for facilities or programmes.
  • Partner to create inclusive sporting events.

Sport for development can build healthier, safer, and more connected communities.