CIMSPA responds to Government’s Sports Strategy as part of National Sector Partners Group
“The National Sector Partners Group (NSPG) passionately believes that improving the health and wellbeing of this nation must be a central priority for this and future Governments. This is essential if we want to create sustained economic growth, support the NHS, and strengthen the fabric of our communities across all ages and backgrounds. The role of sport, recreation, and physical activity will be integral to this.
“The Government’s new Sports Strategy shines a spotlight on the essential nature of sport and physical activity in people’s everyday lives, and importantly recognises the many programmes and initiatives that contribute to this ambition to improve our national health and wellbeing.
“The collective responsibility to improve the health, wellbeing and economic productivity of the nation sits across Whitehall so we welcome the creation of a new Government taskforce to oversee the implementation of the strategy, with industry representatives collaborating with key Departments centrally.
“The inclusion in the new strategy of participation targets provides clarity around the Government’s ambitions for a more physically active population and to reduce existing inequalities. We look forward to seeing how these ambitions translate into clear, sustainable delivery plans that focus on the growth and development of the sector.
“Only by developing and supporting a programme of delivery in conjunction with all our partner organisations and making full use of all aspects of the sector, will this strategy be able to deliver on its ambitions and unlock the full potential of the sector. We believe with the necessary resources and working collaboratively with the sector, we can become one of the world’s most active nations and improve outcomes across society.
“We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the Government to develop and implement legislative changes and national initiatives to realise these ambitions together.”
Speaking on behalf of The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), Tara Dillon CEO, added:
“CIMSPA is pleased to see the new strategy acknowledging the role that the sport and physical activity workforce has in contributing to the nation’s health, wellbeing and economic growth. The sector offers flexible careers with great progression opportunities across the country. The focus that the strategy has on delivering a localised approach to services and provision, is very much welcomed. CIMSPA is already working with local employers, education providers and other stakeholders that deliver a range of public services, to ensure that the workforce has the skills needed to support local needs.
“The strategy also highlights the National Workforce Registration Scheme pilot, which CIMSPA has been commissioned to lead, and the crucial role that this project has in the future of the sector. The scheme will provide the talented individuals that work in the sector with greater professional recognition and allow everyone taking part in sport and physical activity to enjoy safe and high-quality experiences, and to be supported in achieving their goals in a positive environment.”