Alliance responds to Government's £1 billion business support package

Following confirmation that the sport and recreation sector is not included in the latest support measures, Lisa Wainwright MBE, CEO of the Sport and Recreation Alliance has issued the following statement.

“At a time of great change and uncertainty, the decision not to provide sport and physical activity businesses with access to new grant support is incredibly disappointing.

“If we have learnt anything from one of the most testing periods in recent history, it’s that our community clubs and facilities are invaluable to the nation’s physical and mental health.

“There are already substantial pressures on local sport and physical activity provision and we’ve seen the nation’s activity levels plummet during the pandemic. Without further financial support, we really are running the risk of an already-concerning picture, becoming critical.

“Millions of people across the country rely on these clubs and facilities to stay fit and healthy, especially in these long winter months which can be so challenging for so many people. The Chancellor has missed an important opportunity to help people live healthier lives.

“If the Government truly believes it wishes to build back better, then it must support our sector financially to safeguard those who deliver activity, and all those who benefit from it.

“We will be doing our upmost in the coming days to reverse this decision so that our members have the reassurance, protection and support they need to continue to deliver for their local communities."

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