Covid-19 has deepened inequality and fuelled a mental health crisis.

The pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s mental health and wellbeing, and not everyone has been affected equally. Covid-19, and associated lockdowns, have accelerated and deepened existing inequality. This means we urgently need strategies which support everyone’s mental health – especially people living in more disadvantaged and deprived communities. 

There’s clear evidence developing a healthy relationship with physical activity and being involved in linked programmatic interventions and social networks is beneficial. Research shows it can improve people’s mental health, support wellbeing and resilience and help tackle social isolation. 

The Sport for Development Coalition has worked with the national mental health charity Mind, Edge Hill University and Loughborough University to produce a policy brief and research report to highlight the role of physical activity, sport and sport for development in promoting movement and mental health following Covid-19. Access the documents below.

 

Policy brief

In this brief, you’ll find clear, evidence-based recommendations to protect and enhance the contribution of physical activity, sport, and sport for development to mental health in the UK.

Moving for mental health - Policy brief
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Research report

This research report has been produced to help inform Government policy and promote the benefits of community-based physical activity for everyone. It’s also designed to support and inspire public bodies, funders, commissioners and policy makers as well as community-based programme providers aiming to enhance the impact of movement for mental health.

Moving for Mental Health full report

Submissions of case studies, evidence and learning