Hastings To Benefit As Sport England Invests £250m To Tackle Inactivity In Deprived Communities

Deprived areas across the South East, including Hastings, are set to receive a share of £250 million in Sport England funding aimed at tackling rising inactivity levels and improving community health.

The investment, part of a national programme, will support some of the regions facing the greatest barriers to physical activity.

Sport England has warned of an “entrenched and growing” inactivity crisis, particularly affecting children and low-income communities.

According to recent figures, more than one in three adults in England’s most deprived areas are now classed as inactive — compared with around one in five in the least deprived communities.

The organisation says this disparity is contributing to long-term health issues, poorer mental wellbeing and reduced life opportunities.

In East Sussex, Hastings has been identified as a priority area.

In Kent, Swale and Medway will also receive funding, joining Thanet and Gravesham, which were supported in an earlier phase of the scheme.

Active Kent and Medway said the investment would be used “to tackle inactivity and inequalities by making sport, physical activity and movement accessible for everyone”.

The group said it plans to work closely with local organisations and communities to develop solutions tailored to local needs.

In Hastings, Active Sussex welcomed the funding as an opportunity for transformational change.

Christine Gibbons, chair of trustees, said:

“It’s not just about organising activities — it’s about making physical activity part of everyday life in Hastings so more people can benefit.

"This is a chance to make long-term change.”

Active Sussex confirmed the investment will support planning, community engagement and early pilot projects in the coming months.

While acknowledging the health inequalities present in parts of the town, the organisation highlighted Hastings’ strong sense of community and the dedication of local groups working to improve residents’ wellbeing.

“This investment aims to build on those strengths,” it said.