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A recent government inquiry into community and school sport highlights something many of us already see every day: the power of sport to transform lives, alongside the importance of strengthening the system that supports it.

At a local level, across Nottinghamshire and throughout England, there is strong demand for physical activity, supported by dedicated volunteers and impactful community initiatives. The report highlights the vital role community organisations play in improving health, wellbeing, and opportunity.

For Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT), this recognition matters, and it reinforces the value of the work we deliver in communities and the opportunity to build on it.

Turning insight into action

At NFCT, these findings reflect what we are seeing through our programmes and partnerships, and where we are focusing our efforts.

Responding to growing demand
We continue to expand inclusive, accessible opportunities for people to get active, particularly those who are currently underrepresented in sport and physical activity.

Making the most of community spaces
The report highlights the importance of facilities. Our approach focuses on working creatively, beyond the City Ground, with partners to maximise the use of local spaces and bring activity directly into communities, including supporting the redevelopment of the Forest Sports Zone to expand access to high-quality, inclusive sporting facilities.

Supporting young people through schools and beyond
Schools play a vital role in shaping lifelong habits. Our programmes are designed to complement and enhance this, offering engaging, inclusive activities that support young people both in and outside the school environment.

Focusing where it matters most
We are committed to working in communities where barriers to participation are greatest, ensuring that our provision is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to local needs.

Delivering impact beyond sport

The report recognises that the benefits of sport go far beyond physical activity.

Across NFCT programmes, we see daily impact in:

Improved mental and physical wellbeing

Greater confidence and social connection

Opportunities for personal development, education, and employment

Stronger, more connected communities

Working together for greater impact

A key theme in the report is the importance of collaboration across sectors. Sport, health, education, and community development are all connected, and the greatest impact comes when they work together.

Community partnership and collaborative working is central to NFCT’s approach. By connecting schools, community organisations, and local stakeholders, we are helping to create more joined-up opportunities for people to be active.

Building on the momentum

The report provides a timely and important focus on community and school sport. It highlights both the progress being made and the opportunity to go further.

For NFCT, this is a moment to build on that momentum.

We remain committed to:

Expanding access to inclusive physical activity

Supporting those most at risk of inactivity

Strengthening partnerships across schools and communities

Demonstrating the wider value of sport as a tool for positive change

With continued collaboration and shared ambition, we can ensure that more people, in more communities, benefit from the power of sport.

To see how we can support your school or community, or to find out what you can get involved with, get in touch.

Read the full Game On report here.