Sport England has recently published five new reports presenting ways in which sport can help to achieve stronger, healthier and more sustainable communities.

Sport is now one of the top 20 priorities for Local Area Agreements - targets agreed and signed by local councils and the government. The reports are designed to help local practitioners provide value for money sport by the sharing of best practice and detailing the benefits it has on communities. Sport England has welcomed the support given to the set of papers from the DCMS, Local Government Association, Chief Cultural and Leisure Officers Association and Society of Local Authority Chief Executives.

You can request the following articles from the ISPAL Information Hub, just contact Lucy Roper, Research and Resources manager on 0118 929 8356 or [email protected]. Executive summary

A summary of the latest available information and evidence on the contribution sport makes to developing strong, sustainable and cohesive communities. It includes examples that show how strategic planners and policy makers can unlock the power of sport. Building communities

Sport has a role to play in helping to build strong, cohesive and sustainable communities where people want to, and can, live and work. Healthier communities

Playing sport can reduce the risk factors that contribute to poor health as well as create a healthier workforce, improve quality of life and increase people's independence. Transforming lives

Sport can have a significant impact on children and young people's health, personal development, educational achievement and economic well-being. Creating safer communities

Sport is a positive influence on people, and can help to reduce anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime. Increased prosperity

Sport can be a catalyst for economic development, increased skills and employment - priorities for all local authorities and their partners.