The group – which also includes representation from Active Partnerships, the Local Government Association, Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity, Sport for Development Coalition, Sport and Recreation Alliance and ukactive – highlighted research showing that the UK ranks joint 11^th out of 15^th comparable European nations for levels of physical activity.

Pointing to figures showing that community sport, recreation and physical activity already saves the NHS £9.5 billion each year whilst generating £85 billion annually in economic value, the group argued that making the UK the most active nation in Europe could unlock:

• Savings of up to £1 billion in healthcare spending linked to inactivity
• An addition £3.6 billion per annum in GDP uplift through increased productivity.

Calling on political parties and leaders to embrace the potential offered by supporting the physical activity sector, the group advocated for a new partnership between government and the sector, with and ambition for:

• All children and adults to be given the best chance to live well for longer
• Communities to be safer, greener, healthier and more connected
• Prevention to reduce pressure on the NHS and other key public services
• Our economy to be boosted by a healthier and more productive workforce.

Find out more about the potential offered by increasing levels of physical activity here.