Former England men’s football manager Gareth Southgate warns that many families in the UK struggle to afford sports and PE kit for their children. Speaking while promoting the Multibank charity campaign, Southgate says some parents cannot buy the equipment needed for children to take part in school sports and PE lessons. The reports describe the campaign’s aim as helping families access essential items, including sports equipment.
Sky News and The Independent report that Southgate links the problem to wider financial pressures affecting households, suggesting that children may miss out on physical activities when costs are too high. The Evening Standard and Belfast Telegraph similarly focus on his warning that affordability issues prevent families from providing kit.
The Daily Mail adds further detail, citing concern that without kit, children may spend more time indoors and increases the risk of being less active, particularly during a period when economic pressures leave many families struggling. Across outlets, the common message is that cost barriers to sports equipment and participation remain a significant issue.
