The MP for South Cambridgeshire has been appointed to the position, replacing the Rt Hon Michelle Donelan MP, who moves to Science, Innovation and Technology. This follows the Government’s decision to refocus and streamline DCMS, now becoming the Department for Culture, Media and Sport with Digital removed from its remit.
Lisa Wainwright MBE, Sport and Recreation Alliance CEO, said: “The appointment of the new Secretary of State comes at a time when the sector is in urgent need of greater support given the current cost of living crisis.”
“Our recent research demonstrated that the effects of the cost of living crisis, combined with the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, mean that community clubs in our sector are in an incredibly perilous situation and individuals across the UK are being stripped of more participation opportunities.
“These community clubs support millions of people to play and be active every week up and down the country. They are woven into the fabric of our communities, positively impacting the lives of millions of people across the nation. They bind communities together through a shared passion, provide the vital first step on the ladder for those who aspire to reach the top of the sporting pyramid and play a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the nation.
“We are looking forward to working with the new Secretary of State and her team to make sure the sector is supported through this difficult period, when the future of community sport and recreation clubs across the country are in such danger, and ensure they are preserved for future generations.
“Aside from this, we believe that sport and recreation has a broader role to play in achieving the wider policy ambitions of the Government, and is currently overlooked in this regard.
“Alongside our sector partners, we recently published our ‘Unlocking the potential’ report, which details the role the sector could play, and outlined the policy changes which are needed to ensure this happens. We look forward to working with the Secretary of State to make sure the recommendations in the report are acted upon.”
The Sport and Recreation Alliance welcomes Government’s commitment to investing in community sport, recreation and physical activity, and its recognition of the social and economic value it provides.
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The National Sector Partners Group has issued a joint statement following the announcement of the Government’s Comprehensive Spending Review today.
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Today Sport England has announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive, Simon Hayes, who will begin the role in September.
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