Health, Sport and Leisure

As with other factors, south London as an area of contrasts regarding health, sport and leisure indicators. The 2001 census shows the percentage of residents who describe themselves as having a ‘limiting long-term illness’ as low for most of the sub-region. However, there are distinct areas where the proportion rises to 30% and above. South London has to address issues such as a growing level of obesity and a growing resident population of older people who will have particularly high healthcare needs.

South London’s image as an ‘affluent’ area can have a detrimental effect on participation in sport. The South London Sports and Physical Activity Partnership - Pro-Active South London has found that those on low incomes are often excluded by the high cost of the many private clubs. The South London Sports and Physical Activity Strategy and business plan identifies how partners can widen and increase sport and physical activity for everyone in the community, whether it is a recreational activity for fun, for improving physical fitness and mental well-bring, to make new friends, or even to progress to levels of performance through established pathways. Mental and physical fitness can be improved also through just getting out and about.

In drawing up the strategy, the Sport and Physical Activity Partnership will also investigate if there are issues for Black and Ethnic Minority participation. London’s successful bid for the Olympic and Paralympic Games will also provide the impetus to improve access and support for sports for people with disabilities.

Cultural and sport activities impact on quality of life. The South London Arts Partnership is working with the Arts Council England to establish priorities across the region and to start to put in place a strategy to strengthen cultural industries and increase the skills base of individuals working in this sector. Participation in the arts, music and dance is recognised as a ‘leveller’ for engaging disadvantaged and/or excluded groups that benefit from the opportunity for self expression that the arts gives them.

The voluntary sector and community groups are key partners for arts and cultural actions. South London Connexions already works with voluntary and community groups to support arts, music and dance initiatives as part of its work to engage young people. The south London Creative Industries Action Plan will also provide support. Such initiatives are also successful for working with ethnic minority groups. Good practice and further development could be explored to take advantage of the wealth of arts and culture in south London. There is also a wealth of London-wide organisations that could be tapped into.

The Voluntary and Community Sector

The voluntary and community sector plays an important role in south London, contributing both to the quality of life and playing a major part in the delivery of public services such as health, sports, culture and education. The voluntary sector employs in excess of 140,000 people and volunteering is estimated to be worth at least £80 million. The voluntary and community sector is expected to play an even greater role and London’s Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the associated sports and cultural activity will make particular demands on volunteering expertise.

In view of its vital role, building the capacity of the voluntary and community sector is therefore essential. The voluntary sector in south London is committed to support sub-regional strategies to respond to shared needs and issues – whilst ensuring the diverse needs of the sub-region are met through the local delivery of activities.

Current updates

Pro-Active South London is working with the London Mayor and Kate Hoey MP on the London Legacy Plans for both Sport and Physical Activity.

Sub regional consultation events are being held across London throughout February 2009.

The London Legacy Plans will be published in April 2009.

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