Only one in 20 believe their local sports club receive sufficient funding, according to a survey, while over a quarter of people revealed the cost-of-living crisis had impacted their decision to join a grassroots sports club. This included almost half (42%) of 35–44-year-olds.
The research comes from Greene King IPA to mark the one-year anniversary of its grassroots funding scheme, Proud To Pitch In.
In addition, nearly two fifths (37%) of 18–24-year-olds said there are no grassroots sport opportunities in their local community and over half (59%) of women said that, as children, they were not encouraged to take part in sports.
Launched in 2021, the Greene King IPA Proud To Pitch In scheme allows grassroots sports clubs to apply for a funding grant of up to £3,000 – however to celebrate the one year anniversary, a one-off lump sum of £10,000 is being made available to clubs.
Will Hemmings, Greene King brewing and brands marketing director said: “We are delighted to celebrate one whole year of the Greene King IPA Proud To Pitch In scheme. For us, the scheme isn’t a one-off campaign, but a continuous pledge from Greene King to create a lasting impact for thousands of clubs across the UK.
“We want grassroots sports to flourish, however we’re aware of the challenges that many clubs face, which is why supporting clubs with additional funding is so important.
“With a cost-of-living crisis affecting households across the country, it is now, more than ever, so important that we keep clubs funded – in order to help maintain, and improve, the nation’s social, mental, and physical wellbeing.
“So, whether you play football or hockey, are in a roller skating club, or organise a Zumba class, we want to support as many local clubs as possible – which will hopefully go a long way to keeping everyone in action.”
To apply, or to nominate a grassroots sports club for the £10,000 funding lump sum, visit: https://www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/proud-to-pitch-in/
Teams have from now until Dec 11 to apply, and the winner will be contacted in January. Additionally, grants of up to £3,000 are still available to clubs and teams, and applications for these can be entered here: https://www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/proud-to-pitch-in/
