One of the major tasks of any strategy is a rigorous appraisal of those external factors that will impact on sport in your authority.  These include national trends in demography, facilities, participation, consumer spending and performance.

Sport England plays a key role in providing relevant national data on participation, facilities and performance. Much of the focus of Sport England's research is on identifying and better understanding the inequities in sporting opportunity which exist amongst different groups in the population and the way these may be overcome. Results from Sport England’s Active People Survey provides valuable information on participation.

It is easy to become swamped in information when searching through all these key sites. It is important that you consider what you need to find out beforehand:

• we can use existing data on the results of consultation to support our thinking when writing a strategy. A valuable resource is the Value of Sport Monitor which was developed by UK Sport, Sport England in conjunction with the University of Stirling which provides links to the most recent research and reference material on the contribution of sport to social issues
• if you would like information on views on the value of sport to health refer to Sport England’s publication ‘The Value of Sport to the Health of the Nation’ which is part of their Best Value Through Sport toolkit. Also visit Sport Development to find links to recent published research on a range of aspects of sport and health .  
• if you are looking at opinions on how sport can contribute to reduction of crime and disorder you will find Sport England’s paper Crime Reduction and Public Safety helpful
• where you will find comment and links to other relevant information sources.  
• if you are looking to support investment in sport, Sport England’s briefing paper Financial Investment in Sport will help you. Sport’s value to local authorities is highlighted in Sport England’s publication The Value of Sport to Local Authorities which responds to the question why invest in sport?  The economic benefits, as well as the social and health benefits are discussed.

Some more general surveys have recently been undertaken, which include sections on sport and participation. NOP are commissioned by the government to undertake regular Household surveys which includes some information on sports participation.

Regional data is also useful in developing arguments in your strategy.  Most Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) undertake regular consultation. To find the web address of the RDA in your area visit the RDA website.

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation is a national body that undertakes research and surveys relating to quality of life issues.

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