Martyn Allison, a prominent industry strategist in the UK sport and leisure sector, is calling for a shift in approach as the UK General Election approaches. He argues that the sector should focus on delivering solutions rather than asking for more funding from the government.
Key points from Allison’s perspective include:
- The sector should demonstrate its ability to address government priorities, particularly in tackling health inequality.
- Instead of seeking government leadership, the industry should take the initiative and show it can reform and improve existing resources.
- Allison criticised the current “Take the Lead” campaign, stating that asking for more investment is unlikely to resonate with a new government facing other priorities.
- He draws parallels to the 1997 election, warning that the sector must avoid falling behind in policy development and implementation as it did then.
- While acknowledging the Labour Party’s focus on health prevention, Allison notes that the importance of physical activity doesn’t seem to be fully recognised in their manifesto.
- He expressed disappointment that no political parties are adequately addressing the pressures on councils or the social care crisis, which impacts leisure services funding.
Allison’s believes that the sport and leisure sector should proactively demonstrate its value and ability to address key issues rather than relying on government funding and leadership. He suggested that by driving growth and showing success, the sector will be in a better position to request government investment in the future.
Additionally, ukactive posted a blog on the 2024 General Election, revealed that they had been actively engaging with candidates from major parties, collaborating with sector partners and clarifying facts for their members.
Their efforts included a widely supported letter to party leaders, which received media coverage on Sky News and the Today programme. CEO Huw Edwards also discussed the sector’s opportunities on BBC Radio London.
To find out more, see here.
