GLL

GLL is a Community Benefit Society that used a charity bond to help transform new sports facilities into accessible community assets.

07 November 2019

Key information

Challenge

Two thirds of people do not currently take part in weekly exercise, despite links to illnesses such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. A key barrier to participating in sport is a lack of affordable, appropriate or accessible facilities.
Approach

GLL provides access to quality leisure and fitness facilities at affordable prices to promote healthy and active lifestyles at 150 locations across the UK.
Revenue model

GLL used a charity bond to help transform new sports facilities including the London Aquatics Centre and Copper Box Arena and the Royal Greenwich Lido as accessible community facilities. The bond will be repaid with income from the venues including membership fees.
Impact

Over seven million people have visited the London Aquatics Centre and Copper Box Arena since they opened. Members of the local community now train alongside world class athletes. GLL also actively engages with groups who traditionally do not take part in sport including people on low incomes, people with disabilities and older people.