Affordable access to sport

By Adam Freeman-Pask

Affordable access to sport is crucial in addressing the alarming social inequalities highlighted in two reports published this week.
 
The Centre for Social Justice Two Nations: The State of Poverty In The UK report highlights the danger of the UK slipping back into a Victorian-age gap between the affluent and the impoverished, with 13.4 million people facing challenges such as family fragility, stagnant wages, poor housing, chronic ill health, and crime. The CSJ report emphasises the detrimental impact of lockdowns, including a rise in domestic abuse, school absences, and mental health issues, especially among the least well-off. For example, twenty years ago, just one in nine children were assessed as having a clinically recognisable mental health problem, that figure is now one in five - rising to nearly one in four for those aged 17-19 years old.
 
Simultaneously, the Sport England Active Lives Children report reveals persistent inequalities in children's activity levels, with 44% of those from less affluent families being less likely to engage in physical activities. As cost-of-living concerns impact children's relationship with sports, Active Lives highlights the importance of addressing these disparities.
 
Our work at Fulham Reach Boat Club plays a pivotal role in bridging these gaps by providing access to rowing, a sport that promotes physical activity, teamwork, and positive mental well-being.
 
We work hard to ensure free access for those who would otherwise not be able to afford it. Our State School Rowing, Free Water Sport Weeks, junior Reach Pathway bursary places, and Boats Not Bars programme are all free access opportunities, which are critically important, and we are working hard to fundraise to protect them.
 
We believe engaging people in rowing activities can serve as a catalyst for breaking the cycle, offering children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds an opportunity to build physical fitness, develop social connections, and cultivate a positive attitude toward sports.

In the face of societal challenges outlined in these reports, access to rowing at Fulham Reach Boat Club is powerful place for fostering inclusivity, improving mental and physical health, and ultimately contributing to a more equitable and resilient community.

If you can support our work in anyway please get in touch and we are always grateful to those who are able to contribute via one-off or regular donation.

https://www.fulhamreachboatclub.co.uk/donate