We wish to inform you that the Free Access for National Sports People (FANS) scheme across Kent and Medway will end on 31 March 2027. Active Kent & Medway will cease to administer the scheme from this date, due to a change in funding priorities for the local Active Partnership.
We appreciate this is disappointing news for many. We are grateful to all our FANS members and to the many leisure operators and providers who have partnered with us over the years to make training and competition that bit more affordable for talented sports performers across the county.
To provide clarity on next steps: Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, existing FANS members can renew their current memberships up to and including 31 March 2026. Renewals made before 1 April 2026 will receive a full 12‑month membership. For any memberships due to expire before 30 June 2026, members who meet the eligibility criteria prior to 31 March 2026 have the option to renew early and submit their renewal up to and including 31 March 2026. They will receive a full 12-month membership from 1 April 2026. Any renewals received after the deadline of 31 March 2026 will not be processed.
Looking ahead, some leisure trusts and facility operators now run their own talented performer schemes across the county. We encourage athletes and families to explore these alternative schemes.
Thank you for your understanding and support. We’ve put together a FAQ page to help answer any questions that you may have. We wish all our FANS members the very best in their sporting careers.
Liz Davidson Kennett, Active Partnership Director, Active Kent & Medway
Published: 30 January 2026
