Active Families Active Community Project

"Active Families Active Community" started as a pilot project designed to break the barriers preventing South Asian women from taking part in sport and physical activity. Charnwood Borough Council worked closely with local charities, community groups, partners and a network of women to understand the cultural and religious needs of South Asian women and organise suitable activities for them.

Resulting from this consultation, Charnwood launched 5 different sports activities (squash, swimming, aerobics, badminton, indoor climbing), located in a mix of community and traditional sports facilities. The sessions were attended by over 120 – predominantly Muslim women who registered over 1000 attendances during the past year.

The project has had a positive impact on many of the participants' lives. By encouraging participants to become more physically active, the "Active Families Active Community" project has helped women overcome mental health problems, by helping them feel more empowered and more autonomous. Participants have taken responsibility for designing and leading some of the activity sessions and this has helped develop confidence and self esteem. Two of the women have recently attained a seated physical activity qualification.

The work of partners and volunteers was highlighted at the 2016 Charnwood Sports Awards when they received awards for Volunteer of the Year and Community Project of the Year.

"On behalf of myself and the women from our community I wish to thank Active Charnwood who enabled so many of us to play sport and include physical activity into our lifestyles."

Afia Ilyas, Community Leader and Volunteer.

Project workers have understood the needs of the community and have been very accommodating. As a result, we have been successful in targeting hard to reach people and enabling them to participate, enjoy and lead a healthier lifestyle.

Human Rights & Equalities Charnwood