Role of Sport England

The role of sport England in promoting physical activity and wellbeing

Sport England plays a pivotal role in encouraging physical activity and promoting the wellbeing of people across England. As a national agency, it provides support, funding, and resources to various sports and fitness initiatives, aiming to make physical activity accessible to everyone. In this blog, Dr Richard Dune discovers the importance and impact of Sport England, which is crucial for organisations involved in health, social care, and education and for individuals dedicated to improving public health.

Key facts and statistics

Sport England, established in 1996, is an arm's length body of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). It has invested over £1 billion in grassroots sports over the last decade, supporting over 5,000 projects to increase participation in sports and physical activity.

According to Sport England's "Active Lives Survey," 63.3% of adults in England engage in physical activity at least twice a month.
Physical inactivity costs the UK approximately £7.4 billion annually, highlighting the economic importance of encouraging sports participation.
Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of major illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cancer by up to 50% and lower the risk of early death by up to 30%.

Key definitions

Physical activity - Any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure, including activities undertaken while working, playing, carrying out household chores, travelling, and engaging in recreational pursuits.
Grassroots sports - Community-based sports activities that are non-professional and open to all, aiming to increase participation and promote healthy lifestyles.
Active lives survey - An annual survey conducted by Sport England to measure the physical activity levels and sporting habits of the population in England.

The importance of Sport England

Sport England's initiatives are vital in fostering a culture of physical activity and healthy living. By funding local sports clubs, schools, and community projects, the agency helps reduce barriers to participation, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability, can engage in sports and physical activities.

Benefits to public health

Physical inactivity is a significant public health issue. Sport England's efforts directly contribute to reducing the burden on the NHS by promoting activities that help prevent chronic diseases. Their programmes encourage a more active lifestyle, essential for physical and mental health.

Economic and social impact

Investing in sports improves health outcomes and generates substantial economic benefits. It reduces healthcare costs, increases productivity, and fosters social cohesion. Sport England helps build stronger, more connected communities by supporting grassroots sports.

Recommended best practices for implementing legislation and regulations

Organisations should adhere to best practices that align with legislative and regulatory requirements to leverage Sport England's support and resources effectively.

Compliance with legislation

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 - Ensuring that all physical activities and sports facilities meet safety standards.
Equality Act 2010 - Promoting inclusivity and accessibility in all sports programmes, ensuring no discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or age.
Children Act 2004 - Safeguarding children in sports settings, with robust child protection and welfare policies.

Effective programme implementation

Engage stakeholders - Collaborate with local authorities, schools, and community groups to identify needs and resources.
Access funding - Apply for grants and funding opportunities Sport England offers to support sports initiatives.
Promote inclusivity - Design programmes that cater to diverse populations, including underrepresented groups.
Monitor and evaluate - Regularly assess the impact of sports programmes to ensure they meet objectives and deliver desired outcomes.

Recommendations

For organisations aiming to enhance their compliance and effectiveness in promoting physical activity, integrating comprehensive compliance management software such as ComplyPlus™ is crucial. This platform aids in meeting statutory and regulatory requirements efficiently, ensuring that all programmes and activities adhere to best practices.

Conclusion

Sport England's role in promoting physical activity and wellbeing is indispensable. Supporting and funding sports initiatives enhances public health, fosters community engagement, and contributes to economic growth. Organisations can maximise these benefits by adhering to best practices and leveraging tools like ComplyPlus™ to ensure compliance and effectiveness in their programmes. Together, we can build a healthier, more active England.

At The Mandatory Training Group, we offer a range of courses and compliance tools to support organisations in meeting their legislative and regulatory obligations. Click here to explore our comprehensive ComplyPlus™ software, which provides a robust solution for managing compliance. With ComplyPlus™, implementing effective and safe sports programmes becomes easier. Invest in our solutions today and ensure your organisation stays fully compliant.

About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.