13 May 2016
CSPs need to develop sustainable financial model, says LGA
BY Matthew Campelli
County Sport Partnerships (CSPs) have to develop a more “sustainable financial model” in the face of council budget cuts, according to the Local Government Association (LGA).
In its written submission to the CSP review – which is being overseen by Sport Think Tank director Andy Reed – the LGA warned that the cuts to local funding may require councils to “review their arrangements” in supporting CSPs, which may put them in jeopardy if they don’t alter their model.
“CSPs need to continue to develop a more sustainable model of operating, which is not reliant on one or two funding sources,” said the LGA. “In line with the councils and the wider public sector, this review is an opportunity to ensure CSPs are operating as efficiently as possible and at a geography that makes sense.”
The LGA also encouraged CSPs to share back office functions and create efficiency measures “so that the maximum possible resource can be directed to the frontline”.
However, the LGA – which dubs itself the national voice of local government – said that CSPs should “play an important role” in supporting councils which have reduced or no sport development staff, and should partner with councils to localise their sporting offer.
“With more Sport England funding expected to be directed towards local partnerships, it is essential that CSPs consistently engage with councils and partners agree local priorities and how best they can support them. CSPs must complement local activity, rather than duplicating or acting in isolation,” said the LGA.
Reed is conducting the review on behalf of the government after it was referenced in the Sporting Future strategy which was published last December. The former Loughborough MP is expected to conclude the review next month.
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