“Grassroots sport clubs are at the heart of communities"
The UK government has announced £100 million in new funding to support grassroots sports and physical activity.
The investment targets deprived areas and aims to boost participation among under-represented groups.
The funding will upgrade hundreds of local sports facilities with improved pitches, changing rooms, goalposts and floodlights.
At least 40% of the funded projects will offer multiple sports, including rugby, cricket and basketball.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy announced the funding during a visit to a grassroots football facility in Scotland.
She said: “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 work with the Premier League, The FA, and the Football Foundation in England, along with equivalent organisations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Funding allocations for 2025 and 2026 have been set.
England will receive £82.3 million, Scotland £8.6 million, Wales £6.1 million and Northern Ireland £3 million.
The FA and Premier League in England will also contribute, with investment expected from local stakeholders.
The FA’s Social Return on Investment 2024 report estimates that grassroots football’s 15.7 million participants generate £11.8 billion in direct economic value.
It also saves the NHS more than £3.2 billion by preventing diseases.
In addition to football, the funding aims to improve accessibility for women, girls, ethnic minority groups and disabled players.
By ensuring multi-sport offerings, the initiative encourages broader participation and community engagement.
The Scottish FA and Scottish Football Partnership Trust’s Pitching In campaign is one initiative expected to benefit. It aims to raise £50 million over five years for football facilities.
Clubs and organisations can now apply for funding. Applications in England can be made via the Football Foundation, while the Cymru Football Foundation will handle applications in Wales.
Windows for applications in Scotland and Northern Ireland will open soon. The first beneficiaries will be announced in mid-2025.
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