Sport England have published their latest figures after researching the social value of sport and physical activity. The report, now in it's second research year, highlights the critical role of sport and physical activity in improving wellbeing, reducing healthcare costs and boosting the economy.

Through in-depth analysis of data and after reviewing evidence of the health benefits of being active (including the costs saved associated with the treatment and care of illness and poor health), the research reveals the profound social and economic benefits of sport and physical activity for communities across England.

Social Value Key Statistics: The statistics uncover just how much active lifestyles contribute to social and economic prosperity

• Activity has brought £8 billion in direct net savings to the healthcare system through illness prevention, reducing pressure on the NHS
• Nearly £6 billion has been saved in productivity gains from a healthier workforce taking fewer sick days.
• Active lifestyles prevent over 3.3 million cases of chronic health conditions a year - including 1.3 million cases of depression, 900,000 cases of back pain and 700,000 cases of type 2 diabetes.
• Community sport and physical activity delivers a £36 billion boost to the economy through employment opportunities, volunteering, facilities and equipment.
• £14bn in tax revenue is also generated as a result of sport and physical activity.

Inactivity costs the economy

But the report also warns inactivity is costing the country £20 billion a year and that this situation could be improved by investment in sport that especially seeks to address the inequalities in access to sport and physical activity.

If investment focused on the least active groups in society, such as those with disabilities, on lower incomes and black people, then a further £20 billion a year could be made in healthcare savings, productivity gains and improved wellbeing.

Sport England Chief Executive, Simon Hayes, commented,

"Health is wealth, and today's research publication confirms this,"

"By protecting and investing in opportunities to be active – particularly for communities and people that face the most barriers to taking part – the nation will be healthier, wealthier, and happier."