More than 16,000 pieces of Commonwealth Games equipment to be given to community groups

All eyes were on Birmingham as it hosted one of the most successful Commonwealth Games in recent history and made people across the region proud of their hometown.

And now community groups across the West Midlands can apply to receive some of the 16,000 sports equipment used at the 2022 Games.

The sports equipment on offer includes a range of items from all Commonwealth Games sports such as basketballs, netballs, boxing gloves and rugby gear.

Bikes, weights, martial arts mats, T20 cricket gear and general equipment such as cones and bibs are also on offer for West Midlands groups, as are additional items that can indirectly help organizations carry out their activities such as vacuum cleaners, mops, buckets and ice machines.

This unique opportunity is open to organizations providing inclusive and accessible sport, exercise and wellness activities in West Midlands communities.

These include groups in the Black Country, Birmingham, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Coventry, Solihull and Warwickshire, as well as Hereford and Worcestershire.

Sport England chief executive Tim Hollingsworth said the giveaway was an important part of securing a long-term legacy for the Games.

“Birmingham games were memorable – but now it’s important that sport and activity don’t stop in our communities,” he said.

“It’s a wonderful part of the Games’ immediate legacy that gear and equipment that were part of iconic moments – like the historic England women’s first ice hockey gold – can now go to local groups to support them in their quest to get from Sport to benefit and be active.

“That has always been a key goal: to build a legacy of new opportunities in the community that were not previously open or easily accessible to those who want them most.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “This summer’s spectacular Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022 must be a starting point, not a finish line, for the rebirth of our region if we are to make the most of this moment of celebration together.

“I want these games to leave a lasting legacy for the people of the West Midlands for generations to come.

“A quick, exciting and very practical way to make the legacy meaningful is what we are doing with the ‘Remnants of the Games’ – by which I mean the amazing sports equipment that is now being shared with communities across our region.

“It’s great news that this gear is finding its way to the safe havens of grassroots sport, where it can make a real difference – expanding access and encouraging people to be healthier and more active.

“I can’t wait to see how life changes for the better in the coming weeks, months and years.”

Nonprofit nonprofit organizations such as local volunteer groups, schools, sports clubs, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and social enterprises that run community-based projects are encouraged to apply and have until September 19 to receive their application in.

A full catalog of the community giveaway kit will be made available on the Sport England website for groups and clubs to view and claim.