New data reveals nearly £19bn annual social value generated by sport and physical activity in London – But stark inequalities limit citywide potential

London, 19^th November: New analysis published this week reveal the significant economic and social value generated by grassroots sport and physical activity across London worth £18.8 billion.

While Sport England’s national figures show the major contribution physical activity makes across England (£123bn in social value), the London findings highlight both the unique challenges and enormous untapped potential of the capital’s communities.

London’s wellbeing dividend

London’s total social value comes from improvements to individual wellbeing, with participation and volunteering, combined to deliver more than £16 billion in value:

• £2.15bn children and young people (7-16) participating.
• £13.1bn from adults (16+) participating.
• £1.06bn from adults (16+) volunteering.

In addition, Londoners’ activity levels generated more than £2 billion in wider benefits to society, including NHS savings, improved productivity and reduced risk of long-term conditions.

Taken together, the total annual social value generated in London through sport and physical activity in 2023/24 is £18.81bn. These figures highlight the scale of the opportunity for London. Yet inequalities in activity levels persist, and the latest research shows that billions more could be unlocked if the least active groups – for example those with disabilities or from lower-income households -were supported to move more.

Emily Robinson, Chief Executive of London Sport, said:

“These new findings confirm what we know: that sport and physical activity are essential to London’s health, happiness and economic prosperity. Nearly £19 billion of social value is an extraordinary contribution, powered by the children, young people and adults who move every day in our city.

But this impact isn’t shared equally. Too many Londoners still face huge inequalities and barriers that stop them from being active – making these figures even harder to ignore. Without targeted investment and policy change that recognises London’s unique pressures – from cost of living to limited green and community space – we will continue to fall short of what’s possible.

With the right focus we will close these gaps, unlock billions in further value, improve physical health and mental wellbeing, reduce pressure on public services and strengthen communities across the capital”.