摘要：In the last several years,an increase in the importance of sport in the implementation of public policy has been observed. On the one hand,it is expressed,for example,in involving children and young people in sports initiatives and clubs,improving cooperation between charities,non-profit organisations,clubs and creating more opportunities for participation in sports and recreation for adults and seniors. On the other hand,however,states,regions and cities strive to host major sports events. Apart from economic benefits,they also bring positive social effects. They are related to social inclusion,building national/local pride and increasing the level of social capital. All of the above-mentioned sports-oriented activities translate into an improvement in physical and mental health and have a positive impact on social ties,relationships,and social attitudes. The principles and mechanisms on which sport is based have an educational,upbringing,and motivating value. Therefore,sport has become a factor in social development. Social development strategies are implemented at various levels - from micro,through meso to macro. This means that,on a large scale,they involve governments,international organisations and,on a smaller scale,local communities. The initiatives undertaken at the local level are particularly important,as their effectiveness is usually higher than that of national programs. The purpose of this article is to identify sports initiatives undertaken by London authorities that have social implications. London is a city that is recognised as the world’s sports capital. For many years,the authorities of London have been actively supporting sport (local initiatives and mega sports events) and physical activity to reduce the risks related to the rising costs of healthcare,ageing of the population,social inequalities,and crime among young people. Moreover,the concern for social development brings tangible benefits in the economic aspect. The results of the sport-oriented policy are disseminated through Active Citizen Worldwide,which London is a member of. In this way,other cities can benefit from experiences and best practices to improve their social policies.
关键词：sport initiatives;social development;community sport programmes
