Today, we are excited to announce the launch of our 2024 Impact Report. The report details the impact we have had through the Open Games, and our four further strategic programme pillars, the School Games, LYG33, Inclusive Coaches and our GamesForce volunteering programme.

Our objectives are to improve youth and community social integration through sport and to ensure that sport is a fundamental right for all. We deliver life experiences that improve mental, physical and emotional health and wellbeing across London’s 33 boroughs.

Prof. Geoff Thompson, Chair, London Youth Games said: “We are proud to be releasing our Games Year 2024 Impact Report. London Youth Games uses the power of sport to unite communities. The Games provide a platform for young people from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds to come together in a year-round experience of sport, culture and artistic activity. In doing so, LYG is contributing to the Mayor of London’s vision of ‘using sport to promote safer, more connected communities and prevent violence amongst at-risk youth.’

In 2024, 8,731 young Londoners represented their borough participating in the LYG qualifiers and finals in the Open Games, of which 46% came from ethnically diverse communities.

An impressive 173,784 young people took part in local and London-wide activities and events as part of the School Games of which 52% identified as female.

LYG also played a critical role in promoting healthier lifestyles among young Londoners.

Andy Dalby-Welsh, CEO, London Youth Games said: “London Youth Games ensures access to a variety of sports for young Londoners, enabling young people to stay active and develop lifelong healthy habits. We are very much behind the ‘Take the Lead’ campaign driven by leading sports bodies, aimed at ensuring the government supports the sport and physical activity sector, which also complements this week’s National Fitness Day campaign focused on highlighting the importance of leading healthy lifestyles.”

The Games has not only benefited participants but also mobilised and contributed to the development of a skilled sports volunteer workforce. This year alone, 21 new coaches were trained through the Inclusive Coaches programme, specifically to work with young disabled people, expanding access and support for all. By helping Londoners transition into coaching and volunteering, LYG is building a pipeline for a strong, diverse sports workforce in line with the Mayor of London’s commitment to developing future leaders.

As London continues to attract major sporting events, LYG creates legacy opportunities from London 2012 and Paris 2024, fostering a sense of pride and participation in these global spectacles. Our Finals Festival on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park delivered in partnership with our Organising committee created a great legacy opportunity for young Londoners. David, a member of the Southwark basketball team, shared his excitement: “It means a lot to a lot of young people to compete in an Olympic venue like this. When we were told we were playing at the Copper Box, I was shocked. This hosted the Olympics back in 2012, so it’s amazing to play where they were.” Community involvement and the opportunity to compete in world-class venues are key to inspiring the next generation of athletes, volunteers, and leaders. This June, 6,322 participants and spectators engaged in the LYG Finals Festival at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, showcasing LYG’s ability to inspire and bring together the wider community.

Our programmes align with Paralympics GB’s ‘Equal Play’ campaign, which calls for equal access to school sports for all disabled children. The campaign aims to ensure that the 1.5 million disabled children in the UK have the same access to physical education as their non-disabled peers, advocating for inclusive PE programs in schools. By training coaches to support disabled athletes and promoting inclusivity across all events, LYG contributes to ensuring no child is left on the sidelines, empowering young people of all abilities to participate in sport.

For 47 years, the London Youth Games has united young Londoners, using sport to foster community, inclusion, and empowerment. As we approach our 50th anniversary, we’re committed to continuing the late Queen Elizabeth II legacy, for whom the Games were set up to celebrate, continuing to create a space for young people and communities to thrive.

Read more in the interactive report.