RAF Central Fund Study Reveals £6.5 Million Social Value of Sport and Physical Activity

A new report commissioned by the RAF Central Fund has revealed the profound impact of sport and physical activity on both the wellbeing of personnel and the overall social value created within the service.

The findings underscore the importance of physical fitness not just for recruitment, retention, and operational capability, but also for improving life satisfaction, preventing chronic diseases, and generating significant financial benefits.

As outlined in the study, which was delivered in conjunction with 4Global, Myzone and Sheffield Hallam University – the RAF generates a staggering £6.5 million annually in social value through sport and physical activity. This figure is calculated using a range of metrics, including improvements in health, reductions in illness, and increases in life satisfaction among serving personnel.

Impressively, the wellbeing value for those taking part in sport in the RAF ranks among the top quartile when compared against the wider leisure facility sector in the country. This highlights the role sport and physical activity plays in improving the lived experience of serving personnel – creating happier, healthier and more satisfied communities in the RAF.

Key Findings of the Report

The study’s detailed analysis revealed several compelling insights into the benefits of sport and physical activity within the RAF:

1. Average Social Value Per Person
   On average, each RAF personnel engaged in sports or physical activity contributes £461 of social value annually. This figure is calculated based on a combination of improved health outcomes, including reduced risks of chronic diseases, and enhanced mental wellbeing.
2. Female Personnel Generate More Value
   The report found that female personnel generate 25% more social value than their male counterparts. This higher value is attributed to greater health improvements among women through physical activity, particularly in preventing conditions such as breast cancer.
3. Older Personnel More Likely to Be Active
   In terms of participation, the highest percentage of active personnel was found among those aged 55 and older. This trend reflects the importance of maintaining fitness throughout a military career and highlights the benefits of sustained physical activity into later life, particularly in reducing risks of stroke, dementia, and other age-related health issues.
4. Chronic Disease Prevention
   Over £750,000 of the total social value comes from the prevention of chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, dementia, and breast cancer among RAF personnel. The report highlights the crucial role that regular exercise plays in reducing the likelihood of these serious health conditions, which not only improves the quality of life for individuals but also reduces the burden on healthcare systems.
5. Improved Life Satisfaction
   Around £4 million of the social value is generated through improved life satisfaction among physically active serving personnel. The report emphasises that participating in sports and physical activity contributes to better mental health, enhanced morale, and stronger social bonds, all of which are essential for operational effectiveness within the RAF.

The RAF Central Fund, which supports personnel in accessing sporting and physical activities, remains committed to expanding on these positive outcomes.

Reflecting on the report – Ross Perriam, RAF Central Fund CEO, said: “The £6.5 million annual social value generated by the RAF through sport and physical activity highlights the immense benefits of keeping personnel physically active.

From reducing chronic disease risks to boosting life satisfaction, the evidence underscores the critical importance of physical fitness to both individual wellbeing and operational effectiveness within the RAF.

By continuing to invest in physical activity and promoting sports participation, the RAF will improve both the health of its personnel and the broader societal contributions that physical fitness can offer.

The results of this study provide a strong foundation for future efforts, demonstrating that supporting sports and fitness in the RAF is not only beneficial for individuals, but for the RAF community in general.

The Central Fund will continue to promote sport and physical activity as a positive influencer on recruitment, retention, and operational readiness for the RAF.”