London Youth Games is proud to support the launch of the ‘Open Goal’ campaign developed by the Sport for Development Coalition on 6^th April, which is the international Day of Sport for Development and Peace.

 The Open Goal campaign focuses on how sport and physical activity can support a series of positive health and societal outcomes, such as building stronger communities and social cohesion.

Our new strategy ‘Every Young Londoner’s Games’ wants to give all young people in London the chance to access sport and physical activity, no matter their background.

Of the new campaign, Andy Dalby-Welsh, our chief executive said: “Sport and physical activity can be a strong pillar for young people, not just in their physical health, but also by connecting them with their community, helping their education and improving their employability.

The brilliant Open Goal campaign is all about celebrating the positive impact Sport for Development can have on people’s lives– something that London Youth Games has achieved for young Londoner’s over 45 years.”

We know sport for development programmes generate positive returns on investment. We also know Sport for Development plays a role improving the physical and mental health of individuals facing disadvantage and discrimination. It also increases educational attainment and the ability to secure employment.

Firstly, Open Goal will see the Coalition call on UK Government to ringfence funding committed for jobs, health and tackling crime towards targeted sport-based interventions. This saves public money.

This will support the Government’s recently-launched ‘Levelling Up’ agenda. This outlined 12 ‘Missions’ to be achieved by 2030.

Additionally, Open Goal will see the Coalition work with its partners across multiple sectors. Open Goal will also champion sport’s role in tackling inequalities. Furthermore, it will help to build a fairer society through national and local media.

To find out more, visit sportfordevelopmentcoalition.org.