The Sport for Development Coalition (SFDC) has appointed former MP Andy Reed as its new chair.

Reed, who has previously chaired the Sports and Recreation Alliance and is the founder of Sports Think Tank, succeeds Matt Stevenson-Dodd, who has held the role on an interim basis since 2018.

The SFDC describes itself as a "growing movement of organisations, networks and funders", focused on using the "power of sport and physical activity to generate positive social outcomes".

It is supported and funded by Sport England, Comic Relief and the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

"Never has the need been greater for social change – whether it’s the increasing focus on the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals or the need for social cohesion and integration in our communities," Reed said.

“The many charities and organisations within the sport for development movement are already tackling a vast array of issues, from youth violence to social isolation and dementia amongst older people, from health and wellbeing inequalities to discrimination and deprivation.

“Our aim is to grow this movement by focusing on the Coalition’s three core aims of advocacy – showcasing the sector; impact – demonstrating the sector’s impact and making the case for investment – and investment, so securing new funds for the sector.”

Since leaving parliament in 2010, Reed has become a passionate advocate of the power of sport to effect positive social change and received an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June 2012 for his contribution to community and sport. He is also currently the chair of the Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA).