£14m for Wales’ sport and leisure sector

Lord Elis-Thomas has announced a funding package to support Wales’ sport and leisure sector against the ongoing challenges resulting from coronavirus and provide longer-term sustainability.

The Welsh Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism said that the investment would provide essential support to sports clubs and organisations, independent providers and sporting events who have all faced significant challenges during the crisis and continue to be severely impacted. The fund will help in driving innovation for local authority leisure centres and Leisure Trusts to complement the Hardship Fund for local government.

Elis-Thomas said: “I’m very pleased that we’re able to lead the way in Wales in protecting and sustaining this very important part of our society by delivering this targeted package of support. Sport across Wales came to an abrupt halt at the beginning of this crisis with an immediate impact. We also recognise that there are significant longer-term challenges facing the sector – linked to gradual reopening and low capacities. I hope this fund will help with long-term planning and sustainability in the sport and leisure sector - which plays such an important part in keeping the nation healthy and active.”

The funding package will be allocated to Sport Wales and managed by them on the Welsh Government’s behalf.