Surrey Youth Games more important than ever, says CEO

It comes as many local authorities cut funding for charitable and community organisations

Author: Cameron HallPublished 12th Mar 2024

The organisers of the Surrey Youth Games say they've become more important than ever amidst cuts to other Council's provision.

Sign-ups for this year's games, which begin after Easter, are open.

Children across Surrey, apart from Tandridge and Surrey Heath, are eligible to take part.

They can sign up for activities including Dance, Judo and Street Basketball.

Funding for many charitable and community organisations has been cut across Surrey as local authorities' budgets continue to be cut.

Active Surrey's Managing Director, Elizabeth Duggan, says she's pleased Surrey have continued with their provision where other counties have seen cuts.

"We know that families are struggling with the cost of living crisis, we've seen research which says that this discretionary spend on some of their children's activities is one of the things that has been cut by this."

"We're making the funding go further by targeting complete beginners who haven't necessarily been as active as they could be, and it gives them the opportunity to try something in a really inclusive environment."

She added she was pleased with the Youth Games' unique offering.

"Last year, 80% of participants said that they felt more confident and that it boosted their self esteem, which is a really important thing."