Closing the Gap: New Initiatives to Boost Physical Activity in Deprived Areas

Sport England, in collaboration with local organizations, is launching initiatives to tackle the growing disparity in physical activity across various communities. The situation has disproportionately affected women, individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and black and Asian communities. In response, Sport England will be supporting 53 "high-need" areas, including Swindon and Wiltshire, to increase physical activity levels and reduce health inequalities.

A recent study by Sport England revealed that only 34% of children in deprived communities meet physical activity guidelines, compared to 62% in affluent areas. This significant divide highlights the urgent need for intervention. These disparities contribute to long-term health inequalities and cost the NHS billions annually due to the impact of physical inactivity.

The projects, which will be locally led over several years, aim to provide positive experiences for children and young people. WASP, a key partner in this initiative, is committed to understanding the needs of the communities it serves. A spokesperson for WASP emphasized the importance of innovation and community collaboration:

"If we keep doing the same things nothing changes, so part of this stage, is really about what helps and who's already working in those communities and learning how we can support them."

Moreover, WASP aims to empower communities by giving them the necessary support and autonomy:

"And giving communities that are naturally further away from physical activity the support, power and autonomy to help themselves."

WASP is determined to address these challenges head-on. Local representatives have expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:

"really excited to be working with Sport England and our communities to address physical activity inequalities in our town"

Funding details for each region involved in this initiative will be revealed in the coming months, offering a clearer picture of the resources available for these transformative projects. By focusing on local leadership and tailored strategies, Sport England and its partners hope to foster environments where physical activity is accessible and encouraged.