The Return to Play Fund will support groups, clubs and organisations who’ve been impacted by restrictions brought in to tackle the disease. It will particularly focus on tackling inequalities in activity that have worsened over the last six months.

“A key priority for us has been to support our sector and all those who deliver sport and activity. The disruption we've all experienced over the past few months has been unprecedented, with the ability to be active being just one way we’ve been affected, particularly at a time when keeping active and healthy has never been more important,” said Tim Hollingsworth, chief executive of Sport England.

“With ever changing restrictions and measures being put in place throughout England, there is a continuing urgent need for us to try and support grassroots organisations to put in place the necessary support to safely get everyone active in local areas over the coming months.” 

The fund comprises three parts:

• Small Grants – grants of £300 to £10,000 to help sport and activity groups, clubs and organisations respond to the immediate challenges of returning to play in a Covid-19-safe environment.
• Community Asset Fund – grants £10,001 to £50,000 to help local sports clubs and organisations to adapt and open important places and spaces that can help them welcome back their local community safely.
• Active Together – a £1.5m crowdfunding initiative to help sports clubs and organisations set up their own campaigns to help sustain them through the crisis.