Our Impact
We believe that Londoners’ lives are improved by being more physically active. From that belief comes our vision—a vision where London becomes the most physically active city in the world.
LONDON YOUTH GAMES FOUNDATION IMPACT REPORT 2025
How your support helped change the lives of young Londoners.
Our charity is dedicated to empowering young people through sport and physical activity by providing a platform for participation, competition and personal development.
London Youth Games has been providing life-changing opportunities to young Londoners since 1977.
We strive to foster a spirit of inclusivity, teamwork and excellence.
We encourage young people from diverse backgrounds to take part in healthy lifestyles, build friendships and develop life skills.
We inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders, building a legacy of passion for sport and community across London.
Together, we will ensure the life-changing sporting opportunities of London Youth Games are a fundamental right for all young people living and going to school in London.
WELCOME FROM THE CHAIR
Prof. Geoff Thompson MBE FRSA DL QP JM
Chair, London Youth Games
At London Youth Games, we believe that sport is not a privilege, but a right for every young person. Since our founding to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee in 1977, we’ve given over 2 million young Londoners transformative opportunities, often for the very first time, thanks to the unwavering support of our members, partners and incredible volunteers.
We have continued to deliver this commitment through London Youth Games through Olympic and Paralympic cycles. As we look ahead to our 50th anniversary in 2027, our vision, mission, values and purpose remains clear. With your continued support, we can reach even more young people, break down barriers and ensure that sport is a right enjoyed by all.
Year in Review 2024-2025
48 YEARS
of inspiring, supporting and empowering young people in London
life changing opportunities given to
2,094,004
young Londoners
since 1977
Young people from every one of London's
33
Boroughs
take part in LYG
OUR OBJECTIVES
Ensuring sport is a fundamental right for all.
Through sport, improve youth and community social integration.
Deliver sport experiences that improve physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Andy Dalby-Welsh
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
This Impact Report shares our reach and achievements through the 2024 season. Some big achievements from our powerful yet small team!
Demonstrating our commitment to collaborative working, for the first year we were excited to create an Organising Committee for our Finals Festival. We were grateful to be joined by LLDC, the GLA, GLL, London Marathon Events, London Sport, Youth Charter and StreetGames.
The 2024 Games season will mark the end of our partnership with Nike. We could not have achieved the huge difference we have made for young Londoners without their support over the last 6 years and we are grateful for this.
We would like to thank all our partners, volunteers and member boroughs. Our impact could not be achieved without the support of our members, the local authorities of London, and partners: Sport England, the Mayor of London, GLL, Youth Sport Trust, Garfield Weston, Peter Harrison Foundation, City Bridge Foundation and People’s Postcode Lottery.
Thanks to them - and to you - we’re creating life-changing opportunities for all young Londoners using the power of sport and physical activity.
Delivering London Youth Games' 5 Strategic Programmes
LYG is dedicated to delivering high-quality opportunities. We do this through five main strategic programme pillars.
Open Games
London Youth Games' Open Games is Europe’s largest community youth sporting competition enabling young Londoners from all backgrounds to represent their borough and compete in 27 sports. The 32 boroughs of London and the City of London are our members.
Watch the Open Games Video
Jesse, Enfield
Chair, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
“I always wanted to play squash and after a couple of lessons in squash, I started to really enjoy it and get better at it. Then my coach put me forward to trial for London Youth Games. Playing squash in the London Youth Games makes me feel proud of myself. Representing my borough is a special thing!”
Sumaya, Croydon
Chair, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
“Playing in the London Youth Games is like it's a passion, it's a fire, it's amazing. Playing the Youth Games just made me a lot more of a better player and a better person. Competing in the London Youth Games has honestly been a joy, it's been amazing. I'm really, really excited to see what's happening in the future for netball for me.”
ethnically diverse young people took part this year.
participants took part from the 1st – 5th most deprived areas of London (IMD 1-5), with 24% of participants taking part from 1st – 3rd most deprived areas this year (IMD 1-3).
young people took part in LYG Open Games Finals and Qualifier events this year.
female participants took part this year.
young disabled Londoners took part this year.
of participants said they enjoyed taking part in the London Youth Games
LYG33 survey results 2025
of participants said LYG boosted their confidence in playing sport & working in a team
LYG33 survey results 2025
of participants said LYG events help keep young people active and healthy.
LYG33 survey results 2025
Across the Open and School Games Programme, 2025 saw an increase in events targeting young people with a disability (increasing 29%).
young disabled Londoners have attended LYG events, since LYG began
inclusive events enjoyed by young disabled Londoners
Chloe Kelly, Lionesses
Chloe Kelly is the Lionesses player who scored the goal that won Euro 2022 and the penalty that won Euro 2025. As a youngster she competed for Ealing in the London Youth Games and has fond memories of the games.
“I loved taking part in the London Youth Games when I was younger. It was the most special day of the year and I was so proud to represent Ealing. It made me love football and being part of a team even more than I already did. It’s great to see girls who are just like I was following in those footsteps.”
2025 open games trophy winners
Every borough competing in the London Youth Games dreams of lifting the Jubilee Trophy – one of the most prestigious awards in London's sporting landscape. The title brings pride and recognition to the winning borough, with victory celebrated at a special event that honours their achievements.
Jubilee Trophy winner - Bromley
Bromley were delighted to win the Jubilee Trophy and be crowned LYG Champions for the second year in a row.
Bromley won the Jubilee Trophy after standout performances with Gold in Para Games Athletics, Gold in Football (U15 Girls), Gold in Boys Cross Country and Gold in ParaGames Swimming Male and Female.
ParaGames Trophy winner – Haringey
PARAGAMES TROPHY
The ParaGames Trophy was awarded to the borough achieving the highest number of points across the ParaGames Athletics, Swimming, Football, Boccia and Indoor Rowing events.
Haringey’s highlights of their winning season included Gold in Girls ParaGames Football and Gold in the Boys ParaGames Football too.
Most Improved Trophy winner – Kingston
INNER LONDON BOROUGH TROPHY
The Most Improved Trophy was awarded to the borough achieving the biggest increase in points from the previous season to the current season across their 24 scoring sports.
Kingston won the trophy after brilliant performances including Gold in Boys Basketball Finals, Gold in Boys Table Tennis and Gold in Football U13 Girls.
Inner London Trophy winner – Hackney
MOST IMPROVED BOROUGH TROPHY
The Inner London Trophy was awarded to the inner London borough accumulating the most points from the best 24 scoring competitions they have participated in across the season.
Hackney deservedly earnt the trophy after fantastic preformances including Gold in Boccia, Gold in Indoor Rowing and Gold in Road Cycling.
Haringey
SPECIAL MENTION
Haringey showed excellent performances across the board by earning 2nd place in the Jubilee Trophy and 2nd place in the ParaGames Trophy.
LYG50 CAMPAIGN
The LYG50 campaign launched with Phase One: I Am LYG.
Through powerful storytelling, the campaign amplifies the voices of young people and past participants. We are proud of our people and our impact, we are LYG.
Campaign video
The campaign celebrates the role of London Youth Games in shaping young Londoners, showcasing real stories that highlight the transformative impact of the Games.
Prof. Geoff Thompson MBE
LYG chair
"As our 50th anniversary approaches, we want to celebrate our late monarch and the legacy of sporting participation of young Londoners. The LYG50 campaign is about every young Londoner achieving their ambitions and life potential. With this campaign, we will continue to engage all Londoners, working with the 32 Boroughs of London, the City of London and our supporters to help us meet the challenges that young people face in our communities today. The countdown to 2027 will see a diverse, inclusive celebration and legacy opportunity for all."
Christine Ohuruogu MBE
Olympic, World and Commonwealth champion in the 400 metres
“The London Youth Games is one of a kind and nothing comes closer than the London Youth Games to connecting young people and sport in the capital. The games have impacted the lives of millions of young people over decades. There is much to celebrate and it goes far beyond the sporting achievements; the games foster a spirit of inclusivity, community teamwork and excellence. I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to take part."
Suki Kalirai
Former Chair, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
“During the very first Youth Games in 1977, I was an active participant representing the London Borough of Brent - and we won the gold medal for volleyball. I believe I’m a good case study of how sport can provide a pathway forward. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my life. In today’s society, young people are facing more and more challenges. The more we can offer them positive alternatives, the better.”
Lara, Islington
Islington Tennis Player
“Doing the London Youth Games really helps build the sense of community between players because tennis is quite individual so it's really nice to come together with a common goal. Every year we have a great time and it's just a very great, healthy, competitive environment.”
Shanice Beckford Norton
Team GB Basketball Player
“I feel proud to have been a competitor in the London Youth Games representing my borough, which was Newham. I played for five or six years and it was always really exciting. The London Youth Games is massive, and I think it's really helping sports grow in London.”
Explore participant stories
From 4–6 July 2025, thousands of young Londoners came together to represent their boroughs at the London Youth Games Finals Festival – held at some of the capital’s most iconic Olympic venues.
The event offered a unique opportunity for families, friends, coaches, officials, volunteers, and organisations to unite in celebrating the achievements of young people and their communities.
Watch the highlights of the Finals Festival 2025
The action-packed weekend marked the culmination of a season that saw over 10,000 young Londoners participate in different sports throughout the year.
Highlights included:
As well as dance, primary golf, hockey primary skills and T1 rugby, on Day 1, the School Sport Festival brought extra atmosphere, inviting attendees to try freestyle football, climbing, HADO e-sports, Boccia, wheelchair basketball, pickleball & more.
As well as Girls’ Hockey, Tennis, Basketball, Netball and Volleyball Competitions on Day 3, the Community Sport Festival brought energy and excitement with live music, cultural performances and family-friendly activities.
Guest athlete appearances from Team GB’s Shanice Beckford-Norton and Savannah Wilkinson, netballer Kira Rothwell, European Cruiserweight Champion boxer Jordan Thompson and former GB sprinter Marcus Adam.
Competitions taking place across multiple sports on all 3 days across basketball, netball, volleyball, hockey, tennis, dance and table tennis.
LYG Finals Festival 2025 brought together 5,130 people in a powerful celebration of sport and culture.
Click to explore the photos from LYG Finals Festival.
Thank you to the organising committee who helped shape this event
They worked collaboratively with us to craft a memorable and enhanced experience for LYG Finals Festival, enhancing the event with vibrant community activities for the participants and young Londoners.
Divine
Redbridge Netball Player
"Playing at the London Youth Games Finals Festival was honestly amazing and it brought everyone together. Seeing people who I aspire to be like playing in the Copper Box and the fact that I was playing there too, it meant a lot to me and it gave me a big opportunity and a great experience."
Alex
Kingston Basketball Player
"London Youth Games Finals Festival is always really fun. The atmosphere here is always crazy, it's always really loud, the basketball is really high level and it's fun to have all the sports going on at once. It has a really good energy!"
David
SOUTHWARK BASKETBALL PLAYER
“It means a lot to a lot of young people to compete in an Olympic venue like this. When we were told we were playing at the Copper Box, I was shocked. This hosted the Olympics back in 2012, so it’s amazing to play where they were.”
Naniyah
REDBRIDGE NETBALL PLAYER
“It’s overwhelming, it’s honestly it’s so amazing to be here playing in the Copper Box. I’ve watched games here and to be someone who’s actually on the court, it’s really exhilarating.”
sCHOOL Games
The LYG school games programme enhance access and participation opportunities to sport and physical activities for all young Londoners, by collaborating with School Games Organisers and the London schools network.
We are committed to making sure these crucial sporting opportunities reach those who need them most.
We offer both festivals and competitions, working to give opportunities to those young people facing significant barriers to activity.
Watch the School Games Video
School Games events are...
Focused on inclusion to ensure all young people participate and reach 60 active minutes.
Designed to address local needs and target specific groups of young people.
Centred on personal development through youth engagement
Aligned with the Spirit of the Games values and aim to provide a positive, meaningful experience.
Durga Ranjitkumar
Redbridge Team Manager
"The girls have really come out of their shells and learnt to play as a team. They were really nervous at the start… now they’re supporting each other and building their love for football. This event gives them a chance to get interested in it."
events were delivered
sports were offered
young Londoners took part in local and London wide activities and events
young Londoners with special educational needs and disability (SEND) took part this year
ethnically-diverse young people took part this year
female participants took part this year
Statistics based on those who disclosed this information.
Cathryn Potter
Wandsworth Team Manager (Burntwood School)
"I really liked the variety of sports available, especially those that students may not have encountered before. It highlights diversity and adaptability, creating a great community where everyone can enjoy sports and have fun. Being chosen and invited to this event is a fantastic experience for students. That’s what sport is all about - it brings us together."
Evey young person should have access to the life-changing power of sport and physical activity.
17,737
YOUNG LONDONERS
with special educational needs and disability (SEND) took part this year
35
EVENTS
were delivered
12
INCLUSIVE SPORTS
were taken part in by young disabled Londoners in ParaGames competitions
26
SPORTS
were offered
Our Adapted Inspire Festivals are inclusive events for disabled young people and their friends. These festivals give them a chance to try new sports and find pathways into local clubs.
Watch the Adapted Inspire Festival Video
LYG33
Youth voice activation and leadership programme
LYG33 is our flagship youth voice and leadership programme, empowering young Londoners aged 14–24 to shape the future of youth sport in the capital.
We run LYG33 because we deeply value the voices of young people and recognise how important it is to involve them in shaping what we do.
Through LYG33, young people consult with senior leaders, advise on key initiatives, and influence strategic decisions across the organisation. Their insights help ensure our work stays relevant, inclusive and accessible to all.
Watch the LYG33 video
Ealaf, LYG33 Vice-Chair, shares how being involved in London Youth Games has helped her become a leader and find her voice.
Ealaf
LYG33 Vice Chair
"It’s been a really valuable experience where I’ve been able to develop so many skills, meet so many people that I now call my closest friends and it’s been really meaningful to me."
By participating in LYG33, these young Londoners can build their confidence, leadership skills, and sense of community investment. The programme also offers opportunities to form lasting relationships with peers, coaches and mentors while learning valuable life skills for their futures.
of participants agreed that LYG33 developed their leadership skills.
said LYG33 increased their confidence to use their voice to make a positive difference in their community.
agreed that LYG33 gave them the tools and knowledge to achieve their future goals.
said LYG33 met or exceeded expectations.
young members
boroughs represented
female members
ethnically diverse members
members from the 1st-5th most deprived areas of London (IMD 1-5)
members identified as having a disability
Amber, 16
lyg33 member, Croydon
“LYG33 has definitely changed me as a person. It improved my confidence to put myself out there and face challenges I may find uncomfortable at first.”
Kether, 16
lyg33 member, havering
“The programme has challenged me to be innovative and a problem solver. Qualities which leaders need. It has made me realise the power of sport and has grown my passion for the delivery of sport to all.”
Julia, 17
lyg33 member, hounslow
"Before the programme I was extremely conscious of how I presented myself… Now after two years, my confidence has improved massively. LYG33 has definitely increased my self-esteem and confidence. I feel more comfortable doing a multitude of things from public speaking in front of a large group, to networking with influential figures."
Inclusive Coaches
Inclusive Coaches is a programme that offers training workshops, CPD qualifications, and mentoring to help coaches create supportive environments where every young Londoner can thrive.
Our Inclusive Coaches programme promotes inclusivity in sports by ensuring all individuals, regardless of ability or background, can benefit from physical activity.
With coaching resources under strain, the programme was created to provide inclusive coaching for disabled young people, helping them develop and enjoy sport and physical activity in a safe and supportive environment.
The programme also links with partner organisations to share learning and maximise deployment opportunities. Linking with the Youth Charter's Social Coach initiative has been an example of benefit gained by the coaches and the young people of London.
Officiating
Coaching
Leadership
Sport development training
Mentoring
Watch the Inclusive Coaches video
Coaches receive:
Development Opportunities
- Tailored inclusion workshops
- Flexible CPD opportunities
- Mentorship
Connection Opportunities
- Network opportunities with peers and industry leaders.
- Access to an enthusiastic online community.
Opportunities to Make an Impact
- Chance to put learnings into practice.
- Opportunities to support LYG events and para-teams.
The Inclusive Coaches programme helps upskill and train confident and competent coaches.
feel motivated to continue championing inclusive coaching practice.
have increased understanding and confidence in coaching individuals with a wide variety of needs.
have developed skills and gained experience in inclusive coaching practices.
have built a supportive network of peers and professionals.
Nana
Coach on the programme
"The programme helped me realize I do belong in this space - that my lived experiences and passion for inclusion are my strengths as a coach. The mentoring and workshops helped me adapt my sessions, explore new coaching pathways, and feel part of a community that truly shares my values. I’m grateful to be part of a programme that’s driving real change."
In terms of our 2025 Inclusive Coaches
coaches were trained to work with young disabled people.
boroughs represented, with coaching deployed to 23 boroughs.
of coaches trained are female.
of coaches trained identify as having a disability.
The 2025 programme is funded by
with session support from
GamesForce
The LYG's "GamesForce" volunteering programme champions volunteering as a way to connect individuals and communities, enhancing opportunities and life chances for young people in London.
Volunteers help to make each event happen and create a positive, welcoming experience for every young Londoner taking part.
When people volunteer, they grow in confidence, gain skills and make friends. This contributes to stronger, more connected communities across London.
It provides the workforce to
enable events to take place
enhance the experience for participants, team managers and families
volunteers have been supported to develop their skills and confidence since London Youth Games began in 1977
Elaine
volunteer
"Being a volunteer for LYG is a plus for my social health and for my mental health too. I always come away from events happy and buzzing!"
Kelly
volunteer
"Returning to the London Youth Games as a volunteer has been very fulfilling, especially after competing in it as a youth. Meeting and interviewing Paralympian Chris Skelley was such a memorable moment whilst volunteering that was completely unexpected and left me feeling inspired!"
Last year, London Youth Games had
volunteer shifts successfully filled
volunteers generously donate their time
of volunteers from Ethnically Diverse communities.
disabled volunteers give their time at LYG events.
Statistics based on those who disclosed this information.
Your support will create life changing opportunities
How your support helped change the lives of young Londoners.
We have big ambitions for the year ahead. In 2025 we will, with your help:
01
Raise awareness and execute the LYG50 Campaign through community activation and partner engagement
02
Increase and develop our sponsors and partners with aligned values of supporting young Londoners through sport & physical activity
03
Reposition and strengthen partnerships with NGB’s and local delivery partners
04
Implement and develop four Community Campus initiatives in target boroughs in partnership with Youth Charter.
05
Deliver a more inclusive year-round offering and Finals Festival across the 3rd – 5th July 2026, collaborating with our Organising Committee partners and sponsors across London and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
06
Introduce new LYG Apprentice Activators to support local delivery in target boroughs
07
Strengthen our youth engagement and leadership strategies to ensure young peoples’ voices are listened to and heard at all levels of the organisation and the LYG eco-system
Thank you to our funders and sponsors
Our funders and sponsors are at the heart of London Youth Games. Their support makes it possible to transform the lives of young people across the capital, harnessing the power of sport to create lasting impact for the next generation.
Thank you to Sponsors and Funders:
A special thank you to our Borough Team Organisers, School Games Organisers, Team Managers and Coaches. Your time, energy and dedication make these opportunities possible for young Londoners and help inspire the next generation through sport.
How you can support the Games
Could your company be our next corporate partner?
By partnering with our charity, your organisation can help transform the lives of young people across London - using the power of sport to create lasting impact on the next generation.
Take on a Charity Run challenge
Take on a challenge like the London Landmarks Half for Team LYG and you’ll make a real difference in the lives of young people across London.
Make a donation
Every pound you donate helps break down barriers to participation in sport. Donate today and you'll help raise essential funds to help support more young Londoners to lead healthier lives.
Volunteer with us
Register to volunteer and you’ll improve life opportunities for young Londoners:
