Business
The Gym Group measures social value impact
The Gym Group measures social value impact.
About this update from Gym Group Plc
[{"type":"text","content":"\n \n \n \n RNS Number : 4574S\n Gym Group PLC (The)\n 16 March 2021\n \n \n \n \n The Gym Group becomes first private-sector gym business in the UK to measure social value\n \n \n \n \n \n 16 March 2021 \n \n \n \n \n \n The Gym Group, nationwide operator of 186 affordable gyms, has undertaken analysis of its social impact which has revealed it generated £1.8bn in social value since 2016.\n \n \n Research by Sheffield Hallam University \n found that using the gym reduces the likelihood of developing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and depression, and also increases life satisfaction, improves educational attainment and reduces the rate of crime among young men.\n \n \n The impact of physical activity stretches way beyond improving fitness levels; it delivers social value by increasing educational attainment and wellbeing whilst also reducing crime and the risk of illnesses. \n \n \n The Gym Group is the first private-sector company to commission an analysis of the social value created by its business which will be published as part of its 2020 Annual Report this week.\n \n \n \n \n \n The methodology, initially commissioned by Sport England and the Government, uses a 'Social Value Calculator' developed by 4global in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University and socio-economic data provider Experian. The outputs of the model are split into four core categories: health, subjective wellbeing, education and crime and are driven by the number of people exercising, frequency of activity, demographics and socio-economic factors. \n \n \n \n \n \n The analysis found that The Gym Group created £1.8bn in social value over the five years since 2016, demonstrating the valuable role the company plays in improving the prospects for local communities. Pre-pandemic, it generated £490 in social value per member per year equivalent to an average of £3m per site. The social value generated by each site grew each year driven by increased member usage, until lockdowns reduced overall member visits in 2020.\n \n \n \n \n \n Sustainability is a core element of The Gym Group's strategy. Almost half (49%) of the UK population live under 15 minutes drive from its gyms and it is committed to making fitness accessible for all. 32% of The Gym Group's estate is in the 20% most deprived areas of the UK ...