Kit swap aims to tackle inequality in sport

Donated equipment included sports tops and bottoms, jackets, trainers, sports bras and swimwear

Almost 2,000 pieces of sports kit have been donated to community groups as part of a project that aims to tackle inequality in sports.

An event at John Charles Centre for Sport in Leeds was organised by the Kit Equipment Exchange Partnership (KEEP) to distribute second-hand sportswear to schools, community groups and parents.

Organisers said 1,890 items were donated, including sports tops and bottoms, jackets, trainers, sports bras, period pants and swimwear.

Salma Arif, Leeds City Council executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said the pilot event had been a "real success".

She said: "No one should be put off from playing sports or being active because they can't afford to buy the right equipment.

"KEEP is doing a great job in removing that barrier for people, while also making sure no kit or equipment is going to waste."

Funded by Leeds City Council's Active Leeds service, the event saved about £32,000 and 831kg of equipment from going to waste.

More than 30 organisations attended to collect items, with pieces donated to primary and secondary schools, specialist inclusive learning centres, community organisations and parents.

They will be given to children and young people, looked after children, women and girls, LGBTQ+ groups, people attending substance misuse groups and people living in the most deprived areas.

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