News / Leisure’s economic payback
EVERY pound invested in sport and leisure in Shetland brings a threefold return, according to a new study.
The study, commissioned by Shetland Recreational Trust and Shetland Islands Council, say the benefits of sport and leisure activities are worth more than £10 million in reduced health and social care cost and higher employability.
The trust and the council spend £3.3 million every year running leisure centres, sports classes, games halls, sports pitches, play areas and other facilities in the isles.
The report’s author, Janet Hamblin of accountants RSM, said the true size of the benefit was likely to be higher because the value of only 60 to 70 per cent of SRT and less than half of the council’s activities had been assessed.
SRT chairman Bryan Leask said the study demonstrated that the value of the annual investment in leisure across the islands was reaping major benefits.
“That means lower health and social care costs, greater productivity in the workplace for local employers and young people in gainful education or employment among many other outcomes. It is a very positive report indeed,” he said.
The study is believed to be the first of its kind in the UK.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.