Additional resources

Funding and Finance

You will want to know about funding either for new or improved facilities on your site (capital) or for help in developing a community programme (revenue). The financing of management and operation of the community use element is unlikely to attract funding. The best sources of information and potential partners on funding for facilities in your area are:

Your local authority

• As well as providing advice and information, local authorities may already be providing revenue funding on dual use sites.   It is obviously highly desirable that this is maintained as a site with revenue support is capable of delivering much more than one that does not, notwithstanding the benefits in terms of strategic planning of being linked with the local authority.   
   
• Moreover, local authorities may make more effective use of school facilities in cooperation with a community sports club as a potentially cost effective way of meeting local needs.  This is vital in a time of contracting budgets because the provision of sports facilities is non-statutory.
  
• In terms of capital your local authority will be able to advise on any funding which may be available.
  

Sport England

• Sport England is responsible for administering funding via the National Lottery. You should contact your local hub office or review Sport England’s website for advice on the latest funding streams and priorities.
  

Governing bodies of sport

• Demonstrating your school is developing in partnership and meeting local strategic priorities will enhance your opportunities of receiving funding, both revenue to develop a sports development programme or capital to enhance your facility.
  
• NGBs can work with schools, local authorities and clubs to offer joined up funding and to enhance already specified facilities based on proven local need. This is usually achieved through a formal application process led by the particular sport’s regional facilities managers, supported by their national governing body. 
  

County sports partnership

• The strategic planning of facilities, delivery of new club and community programmes and the opportunities for funding go hand in hand. CSPs will be able to advise on possible funding sources and put you in touch with potential funders and partners.
  

Other potential funders

• Football Foundation
• Cricket Foundation
• LTA foundation
• Big Lottery fund
• Young People Learning Agency