StreetGames commissioned the Association of Young People’s Health (AYPH) to undertake a research study exploring key trends and policy developments relating to the health and wellbeing of children and young people in low-income areas.
It has long been acknowledged that sport and physical activity can have a positive impact on children and young people’s physical and mental health – with two research studies published by Sport England in 2024 further strengthening the evidence base:
- The Social Value of Sport & Physical Activity report* which found an annual social value from sport/physical activity of £102.7 billion in 2022/23 – comprising a primary social value (i.e. the direct benefit and value to individuals of improved wellbeing) of £96.7 billion and a secondary value (i.e. the wider value to society, including the state from health and social care savings) of £10.5 billion., with active children and young people (aged 11 to 16) generating a wellbeing value of £4,100 annually per child and £3,100 per fairly active child, compared to £2,500 per annum for an ‘active’ adult and £1,200 for those adults that are ‘fairly active’.
- The Children & Young People’s Mental Health and Physical Activity Evidence Review** which found strong and consistent evidence that sport and physical activity interventions had positive effects on the diagnosed mental health problems of children and young people (aged 5-25 years).
Unfortunately, we know that for those living in low-income, underserved communities, access to opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity are often sadly lacking and that there are also distinct inequalities that affect children and young people’s health.
To help better understand the current issues and trends affecting the health and well-being of young people living in low-income communities in England and Wales, StreetGames commissioned the Association of Young People’s Health (AYPH) to undertake a research study.
Professor Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, said: “Being physically active is one of the best things we can do to stay healthy and independent throughout our lives, and sport is one of the most enjoyable ways to achieve this.”
Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock said: “Supporting the country to get active will be crucial in achieving our mission of building an NHS fit for the future. We are committed to giving people every opportunity to lead active lives for all the brilliant benefits it brings, helping to tackle some of the nation’s most pressing health issues.”
* The Social Value of Sport & Physical Activity Summary Report is based on work undertaken by State of Life, Sheffield Hallam University, and Manchester Metropolitan University for Sport England (Oct 2024)
** Children and Young People’s Mental Health and Physical Activity Report. An Independent Evidence Review Commissioned by Sport England. Professor Andy Smith, Professor Stuart Fairclough, Professor Axel Kaehne, Dr Shaun Liverpool and Dr Michelle Maden (Sept 2024)
