The new Storm Relief Fund is designed to help sports facilities that have been disrupted by the recent storm and flood damage to resume normal service as soon possible.

Organisations can apply for support towards areas that are most badly affected, with funding able to be used to repair storm-damaged buildings and roofs, grass and artificial pitches, decontaminate flooded clubhouses, replace damaged electrical systems or clear blocked drains. Other items may be needed, such as the hire of skips, pressure hoses and tarpaulins to secure exposed buildings. All applicants for funding can expect to hear a decision within 10 working days.  

 “Storm damage can have major implications for health and wellbeing as it can stop people from being able to get active. For example, if your local football pitch is flooded, you could be missing out on the physical and mental health benefits of your weekly 5-a-side match. This emergency funding is here to support facilities to return to normal as quickly as possible and keep our communities active,” said Tim Hollingsworth, CEO of Sport England.