The Scottish Government is facing criticism for failing to deliver a promised major funding boost for sport, with warnings it risks squandering the potential legacy of a blockbuster summer of sporting events.
Funding Shortfall Sparks Political Backlash
In Tuesday's budget, Finance Secretary Shona Robison announced a £40 million increase for sports funding. However, this falls significantly short of the £100 million that the SNP had previously pledged to invest, stopping short of a promised doubling of the budget.
Former athlete and Scottish Conservative MSP Brian Whittle led the criticism, stating the increased funding "falls far short of what the SNP has pledged to do." He emphasised the crucial role of sport in public health and the positive knock-on effects for the NHS.
"As Scotland prepares to host the Commonwealth Games and support our men’s football team at the World Cup this summer, SNP ministers must not squander the chance to deliver a proper legacy," Whittle argued.
Uncertainty Over Cash Distribution and Long-Term Plans
Key questions remain unanswered following the budget announcement. It is unclear how all sports governing bodies (SGBs) will benefit, when the new cash will be dispersed, and whether the wider sports sector will see benefits throughout the year.
As part of the overall £40m allocation, the national agency sportscotland will receive an £18 million uplift. A notable initiative is the roll-out of Scottish Swimming's Learn to Swim programme on a one-year basis, offering universal free swimming lessons for every primary school child.
John Lunn, CEO of Scottish Swimming, called the roll-out "fantastic" and "life-changing," but urged the Government to work towards a "sustainable commitment" for the programme's long-term future.
Sporting Bodies Welcome 'Decent Start' But Demand More
Scotland's sporting leaders have given a cautious welcome to the proposals but stressed that a longer-term funding plan is essential to address a growing crisis in the sector.
Doc McKelvey, CEO of Scottish Gymnastics and chair of the Scottish Governing Body CEO Forum, told Daily Mail Sport it was "good to see an uplift, given we have been running on empty for years." However, he warned it was "still short of what would make a real difference" for SGBs to function at the required level.
"We would hope to see commitment to further spending in the coming years, to help SGBs plan accordingly," McKelvey stated, highlighting the need for a more robust, multi-year financial strategy from the Government to secure the future of grassroots sports and capitalise on the summer's sporting spotlight.
