THE COVID pandemic has had a major impact on the lives of so many throughout the country, posing some serious physical restrictions and social distancing which has affected each and every domain of life.

Top of that list, has been its impact on mental health, especially its impact on the mental wellness of children and adolescents, for whom have experienced the biggest disruption to their day to day lives out of us all. 

This year, Britain’s youth have suffered from an excess of free time under nationwide restrictions which has led to them being cooped up indoors, unable to socialise and being cut off from their networks of social support. 

For much of the youth across the United Kingdom, sport plays an integral role in their lives, having undisputed benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing as for many it is not only a way to stay active and keep fit but a means to socialise, relieve stress and, according to a University of Alberta study, cope with adversities in life. 

Now Andre Lockhart, of the London Lions basketball outfit, is keen to discuss various issues surrounding the topic such as the important role sport plays on our mental health during these tough times, how a lack of accessible sport has impacted the mental health of Britain’s youth and the need for better sports infrastructure and support for poorer communities 

Unfortunately, this year has perpetuated a problem that already exists, with a lack of sports infrastructure and guidance for Britain’s youth being at the centre of a growing problem, with almost half of all public leisure facilities facing closure by the end of the year. 

To add to this, some 24% of children from poorer backgrounds as opposed to 8% from higher-earning backgrounds cited their health and fitness decreasing during the first lockdown.

This is largely because disadvantaged populations don’t have easy access to safe and communal green or open space in their neighbourhoods or even a back garden where they can play. 

Sport has proven to play an impactful role in the lives of many, with clubs being right at the hearts of communities across the country, many already suffering hardship.

It is now  proving more vital than ever that sport receives the support it needs to survive and grow through the pandemic in order to remain a platform for inclusion, diversity and opportunity. 

Truly a question sport for good.