A NEW report has laid bare the challenges faced by culture, sport and leisure services in Scotland and warns of an even gloomier picture for the years ahead.
The extensive report by economic and social research specialists EKOS was commissioned by Community Leisure UK, Creative Scotland and sportscotland.
A survey of 14 Councils and 20 Arm’s Length External Organisations (such as Charitable Trusts & Social Enterprises who manage these services on behalf of councils) found that:
- Local government investment in culture, sport and leisure services across Scotland has reduced by at least 20% in real terms between 2010/11 and 2022/23.
- Income has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the current cost of living pressures on households.
- Operating costs have increased sharply since the pandemic, particularly in relation to energy and staff, exerting further financial pressure on what are already stretched services.
- Most Councils and ALEOs have already had to make substantial savings through reducing hours, closing facilities and staff reductions. Around a third of ALEOs have closed facilities including indoor and outdoor sports facilities
- Long term funding reductions have now meant that there is little left to do other than withdraw services and close facilities.
- There is little sign of optimism as most councils and ALEOs expect further reductions in budgets in the future.