Sports clubs supported by SIF charity appeal

Tuesday 11 August 2020

Rugby, football and cricket clubs across the island have received support from the Social Investment Fund, to aid their recovery from the hardship brought about by corona virus.

The clubs have suffered a significant loss of revenue since the beginning of lockdown, owing to an inability to put on events, and cuts to funding from their respective National Governing Bodies.

The SIF funding comes as part of the Covid-19 Community Charity Appeal, seeking to support local third sector initiatives which have an important role to play in Guernsey’s recovery but are struggling themselves.

“We know many sports have been affected in a range of ways throughout lockdown and beyond,” said Relationship Director for the Guernsey Sports Commission, Steve Sharman.

“We had already successfully applied to SIF on their behalf, and established a Sport Recovery Fund which we have used to provide grants to a large number of different sporting organisations to help safeguard their future.

“These organisations provide significant value to the Guernsey community and the support from SIF will ensure that this work can continue.”

Pictured: Cricket, football and rugby have been identified as being at greater financial risk.

Mr Sharman said rugby, cricket, and football have faced particular hardship because they operate for a wide range of ages and levels, and rely on big matches with visiting teams that haven't been able to happen due to ongoing travel restrictions.

“The breadth and depth of their operation on-island goes beyond just one team or small group of individuals, and instead impacts across the whole Guernsey community,” Mr Sharman continued.

“Even allowing for redirecting funds from other initiatives, all three sports were facing the prospect of losing staff and inevitably having to reduce their community offering. The support from SIF will ensure this valuable work in the community can continue.”

The Guernsey Sports Commission estimates that more than 60% of the island’s young people will benefit from the grants provided by the SIF, which will allow their activities and clubs to continue in spite of recent struggles.

“The SIF board has been shocked to learn of the serious financial challenges affecting sports clubs due to covid-19,” added Chair of the fund, Jurat Stephen Jones. “We hope that, with the support provided, these clubs can continue to have a far reach into the community.”

Pictured top: The Guernsey Sports Commission applied for SIF assistance on behalf of the island's rugby, cricket and football clubs.