UK government announces £100 million funding pot for grassroots sport

The UK government has announced £100 million of new funding to support grassroots sports and physical activity, targeting deprived areas and supporting participation among under-represented groups.

The new funding, which HCM has confirmed has not been previously announced, indicates the government has recognised the value of sport and physical activity in tackling inequalities, improving health and making savings for the NHS.

The money will be directed at upgrading hundreds of local grassroots sports facilities with new and improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts and floodlights.

Of the funded projects, at least 40 per cent will also have a multi-sport offer, giving people access to other sports and activities, such as rugby, cricket and basketball.

Investment will target deprived areas and support greater access and participation levels among under-represented groups, including women and girls, ethnic minority groups and disabled players.

The FA’s Social Return on Investment 2024 report estimates the 15.7 million participants involved in grassroots football contribute £11.8 billion to society in direct economic value, as well as more than £3.2 billion in savings to the NHS through prevention of diseases.

Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, announced the funding last week, during a visit to a grassroots football facility in Scotland: “Grassroots sport clubs are at the heart of communities across the UK. That’s why we’re investing £100 million to support new and upgraded pitches, changing rooms and clubhouses across the country, providing transformational funding to the areas that need it most.

“As we deliver our Plan for Change, we will remove barriers to an active lifestyle and increase opportunity for all, ensuring that wherever people may live, they can access high quality sports facilities and experience the joy that sport brings.”

The government will be working with the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation in England, the Cymru Football Foundation in Wales, and the Football Associations in Scotland and Northern Ireland to allocate funds this year and in 2026.

The FA and Premier League in England will be providing significant contributions and the delivery partners will leverage investment from local stakeholders through initiatives such as the Scottish FA and Scottish Football Partnership Trust’s Pitching In campaign, which aims to raise £50 million for football facilities over the next five years.

England will get the lion’s share with an allocation of £82.3 million. Scotland will receive £8.6 million, Wales will get £6.1 million and £3 million will be spent in Northern Ireland.

Clubs and organisations are now being urged to come forward and apply for funding. Applications can be made in England via the Football Foundation and in Wales via the Cymru Football Foundation. Dedicated windows are opening shortly in Scotland and Northern Ireland and those interested are encouraged to check relevant FA websites for more details. The first tranche of beneficiaries are expected to be confirmed in mid-2025.