This has been a difficult time for sports clubs and organisations all over England.
The government put restrictions in place to combat coronavirus (Covid-19). These restrictions had a substantial impact on how sports and activity clubs can operate. Many are also facing significant financial challenges.
On Sunday May 10, the Prime Minister outlined the government’s plan to move out of lockdown. Some of the changes will impact the way we engage with sport and physical activity.
The New Lockdown Guidelines and Sport & Activity
From Wednesday 13 May, people can:
- Spend more time outdoors. For example, sitting and enjoying the fresh air, picnicking or sunbathing.
- Meet one other person from a different household outdoors. But only if they follow social distancing guidelines and stay a minimum of two metres apart.
- Exercise outdoors as often as they wish. But again, only if you follow the social distancing guidelines.
- Use outdoor sports courts or facilities. For example, tennis or basketball courts, or golf courses. You can do this with members of your own household, or one other person – but only if you stay two metres apart.
People cannot:
- Visit friends and family in their homes.
- Exercise in an indoor sports court, gym or leisure centre, or go swimming in a public pool.
- Use an outdoor gym or playground.
- Visit a private or ticketed attraction.
- Gather in a group of more than two, except for a few specific exceptions such as funerals, house moves or in emergencies. But you can gather with multiple members of your household.
Support for Sport & Activity Organisations
Sport England has a range of resources available to help sport and activity organisations through this period.
At the end of March, they introduced a £195 million funding package to help sport and physical activity. The Club Matters website also has a host of practical tips and resources.
Tim Hollingsworth, Chief Executive, Sport England said:
Many of us will be desperate to get going again. But it’s vital all organisations thoroughly understand the guidelines and create detailed and robust plans before they restart.
It’s also important you communicate with your members so they clearly understand what they can and can’t do. Reassure them that a return to sport will be as safe as possible.
The Sport England Website has a dedicated coronavirus section that lists all the resources we have available. It includes a detailed Q&A that explains the new regulations in more detail.
You’ll also find extensive coronavirus resources on our site.