SportInspired is delighted to announce a ground-breaking, three-year partnership with the National Lottery, “United by Fun” that will support over 9,000 children, young people and families to live happier, healthier lives through sport.

Nearly £500,000 of National Lottery funding from Sport England will enable SportInspired to evolve its unique delivery model from 2020 – 2023. SportInspired will take exhilarating sports including parkour, martial arts, fencing and street dance to children living in lower socio-economic groups and fund long term access to the most popular activities. To deepen the impact, SportInspired will launch a pioneering programme encouraging families to get active together and embed healthy habits across multiple generations.

The rationale for this significant investment is clear. A happy, healthy and active life should be the birthright of every child, but for the 4.1 million children growing up in lower socio-economic groups in the UK, the odds are stacked against them. For these children, the barriers to participation in activity are real. Cost is prohibitive, traditional sports delivery can be narrow and focused on attainment rather then enjoyment. Sport England’s research highlights that lack of enjoyment is a key barrier to children sustaining active lives.

Commenting on this momentous award, SportInspired’s Co-Founder and CEO, Richard Raynes, said: “We are delighted to have secured this investment which will transform sporting provision for thousands of children, young people and families from lower socio-economic groups. Thank you to everyone who plays the National Lottery, this project wouldn't be possible without you."

Sport England’s Director of Children and Young People, Mike Diaper said: “We are delighted to be investing nearly £500,000 of National Lottery money into the ‘United by Fun’ project to help over 9,000 young people get active. The project will focus on the communities who are most in need, working with local schools, sport clubs and community partners to provide more opportunities for local young people to access sport or physical activity. The focus will be on celebrating the joy of taking part. Our research shows that enjoyment above competence is the main driver in children getting and staying active.” Jamie Roberts, Welsh Rugby player said: "It's so great to see the National Lottery and SportInspired joining forces to help children who need it most. Getting kids enjoying sport and reaping the life-long rewards is so important."