Have you got the perfect venue for your group?
Do you have all the equipment you need?
Will you hire or lease it?
If you're not sure, then let's dive in...
Jump in
Kit and equipment
Your needs will depend upon your sport.
Some sports set minimum requirements for kit and equipment, usually for health and safety reasons.
For example, you should make sure that everyone has:
- Mouth guards for boxing.
- Shin pads for football.
- Head gear for youth rugby.
Ask your national governing body for the latest advice.
Things to consider if you're starting up
If you're just starting a group, or exploring facilities for the first time, then think carefully before you sign on the dotted line.
What's essential for your club?
What's desirable?
Does this venue offer you everything you need?
Hiring
If you only need facilities for a few hours each week, then you can probably just hire somewhere.
Don’t just look at leisure centres. How about schools, community centres, other sports clubs or private leisure operators?
Leasing
If you need facilities on a more regular basis, you may want to lease somewhere.
Sports clubs often lease premises or facilities from local authorities, commercial businesses or other organisations.
Make sure you understand the terms and conditions before you sign up.
Top tip: If you want funding for leased properties, you will need to prove that you have the right to use the facilities over a long period of time. This is typically 25 years.
Owning your own facilities
Do you dream of owning and running your own facilities? Maybe you want a club house, activity centre or a sports ground, that's all your own.
Here are a few things to consider...
Planning
If you're considering building new facilities, or updating your existing facilities, then explore Sport England's resources.
Designing facilities
For information on designing and costing facilities, check out Sport England's design and cost guidance.
Asset transfer
Asset transfer is the transfer of the ownership of land or buildings from government organisations, such as local authorities, to community groups.
This means that local sports clubs and trusts can sometimes get these facilities at a vastly discounted price if there is a benefit to the local community.