The Games and Cultural Olympiad were a catalyst for involvement but have left an expectation of more opportunities for young people.
Paul Gravestock
London 2012 became a showcase for UK culture and has “inspired a generation of confident, engaged and skilled young people” according to new research published by Legacy Trust UK, the charity set up to create a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Over 1,000 young people aged 16 to 25 were asked about the impact the Games had on them, what they really thought and what should happen next. 84% thought that London 2012 made a positive difference to the UK, and three-quarters of those who participated in London 2012 activities have gone on to be involved in other projects. 86% said they were “more willing to try new things” as a result of taking part and 65% said they were more likely to join a local arts group. Respect for people with disabilities has also grown as a result of the Games, with 70% identifying Paralympians as role models.
But young people are also keen that something is done to maintain the level of opportunity offered during London 2012 and Moira Swinbank, Chief Executive of Legacy Trust UK, said: “The challenge now is to think about how we continue to inspire young people without the umbrella of the Games and how we can offer meaningful opportunities in the future.” The Trust was a key funder of the Cultural Olympiad and continues to support six projects around the UK to extend the work they delivered from 2008 to 2012.