Briefing note: The threat to leisure centres and the value of leisure services

In this briefing note, aimed primarily at parliamentarians we make the case for the crucial role leisure services can play in the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, in terms of tackling growing health inequalities and getting the nation active again. We’re calling for a national leisure strategy focused on the role of leisure services in combatting obesity and the mental health crisis.

This can only be done though if the immediate leisure funding crisis is addressed. This briefing lays out the urgent threat to leisure centres, with one in three councils expecting to have to close centres permanently, and the majority having to make harsh cuts to services. We ask government to consider a financial rescue package to save these vital services.