Half Million Boost For Grassroots Scottish Sport

13th September 2012

After a sensational summer of sport, communities now have more reasons to get up, get active and get involved as the Big Lottery Fund announces a £500K boost for grassroots activity across Scotland.

Since its launch, 2014 Communities from the Big Lottery Fund has supported community clubs and teams awarding almost £3 million in grants. Today's £500k boost means 50 per cent more money is available to bring new people into sport, this year, allowing everyone the chance to get involved with the biggest sporting event in Scotland for a generation.

Speaking at The Glasgow Club Bellahouston (Bellahouston Swimming Pool), Bellahouston Drive, Glasgow , G52 1HH, Olympic 200m Freestyle Finalist and 2010 Commonwealth Games 200m Freestyle Gold Medal Winner Robbie Renwick said:

"After being a part of this fantastic summer of sport I know it's really important clubs and teams, across Scotland, have the financial back-up to make sure all the new people who have been inspired to get involved with sport can do just that.

"Not everyone will have the chance to win a gold medal but thanks to 2014 Communities and this extra funding more people can get up and share the chance to try something new."

Jackie Killeen, Scotland Director, Big Lottery Fund said: "We have a simple goal to ensure a Commonwealth Games legacy for all of Scotland, which lasts beyond the ten day sporting spectacular. We know from this Olympic and Paralympic summer that everyone has been inspired to go out and get active and 2014 Communities funding will allow more people to do exactly that."

Paul Zealey, Head of Engagement and Legacy at Glasgow 2014 added, "Glasgow 2014 offers opportunities for all of Scotland to be inspired by and benefit from the Commonwealth Games. We are working with partners to create more ways for people to celebrate the countdown to the Games and realise a lasting legacy across the country.

"With this support from the Big Lottery Fund, communities can take action to take up sport, dance or other physical activity, and become more involved in volunteering."

Over the life of the fund BIG will put £5.8 million of National Lottery good cause money into Commonwealth Games legacy projects, so if it's tennis clubs looking to identify the next Andy Murray, paddlers taking to the water inspired by Tim Baillie and David Florence, cyclists following in the tracks of Sir Chris Hoy and his Paralympian teammates Neil Fachie and Craig Maclean or swimmers making a splash like Michael Jamieson, Hannah Miley and Robbie Renwick then 2014 Communities is the place to start.

Through 2014 Communities, BIG Scotland makes small grants of between £300 and £2,000. This funding supports grassroots involvement in sport and physical activity. Funding also supports projects aiming to increase not only the number of people participating but also those wishing to volunteer in sport.