We are 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.

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. Children growing up in poverty are three times more likely to suffer mental health issues and twice as likely to face obesity than their more affluent peers. These children are less likely to be active, less likely to achieve high grades and more likely to experience mental health issues and feel disengaged from society. We 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.

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."