Location: The Gallery
Morning Workshop
From Inactive to Empowered - Changing Lives
Chaired by Clare Dunn – Associate Director for Engagement, CIMSPA
Lewis Baker – CEO, Phoenix Lifestyle Foundation and Co-founder, Wellness Warriors
Wayne Glover – Managing Director, Time4Sport
Despite years of progress, persistent inequalities in physical activity participation continue to affect a range of communities, whether based on health status, ethnicity, socio-economic background, disability, or life stage. However, across the sector, many professionals and organisations are leading the way with innovative, inclusive approaches that are not only reaching those who are least active but making a transformative difference to individual lives and community wellbeing.
This session will spotlight the powerful role sport and physical activity professionals play in breaking down barriers and supporting participants who face complex challenges. Through real-world examples and practical insights, it will explore what works when engaging underrepresented groups, including the importance of cultural competency, relationship-building, and the value of lived experience. Delegates will leave with practical ideas to apply in their own settings and a deeper understanding of how inclusive, person-centred practice can help close the participation gap.
Afternoon Workshop 1
Active Girls, Active Women - Breaking Barriers in Diverse Communities
Sarah Jones – Community Development Manager, Leicester City In the Community
As major tournaments like UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 capture national attention, it is vital to sustain engagement beyond the spotlight. Research shows that while interest in being active is rising among girls, boys still out represent them in participating regularly in physical activity. In response, Leicester City in the Community developed the Active Girls programme, a pioneering, year-round initiative designed to maintain girls’ interest and participation through accessible, supportive, and relatable community-based activity.
This session will explore how the Active Girls and Active Women programmes are making a meaningful impact in Leicester, one of the UK’s most culturally diverse cities. By creating inclusive opportunities for women and girls from under-represented communities, these initiatives are helping to break down barriers, address lower activity levels, and build confidence. Through girls-only and women-focused sessions, mentoring, and workshops on life skills and wellbeing, the programmes create belonging and empower participants to see themselves reflected in local role models. Delivered by community coaches, apprentices, and volunteers, many with lived experience, they also support a ‘grow-your-own’ coaching pathway. Delegates will leave with practical ideas on embedding role model–driven, culturally inclusive initiatives into participation strategies that support women and girls of all backgrounds to engage, thrive, and stay active.
Afternoon Workshop 2
Inclusive Participation in Leisure - Connecting The Dots Between Expectation and Reality
Julie Allen – Business Development Director, Active Insights
This interactive workshop will explore how inclusive participation in leisure facilities and communities can move from aspiration to reality. Drawing on consumer insight, lived experience, and sector research, the session will examine the gaps between expectations of accessibility and inclusivity and the day-to-day experiences of people who require additional support to be active.
Through the lens of the consumer, delegates will gain a deeper understanding of the barriers faced by diverse groups and the impact these challenges have on participation. The discussion will blend data with practical, operational knowledge to highlight where improvements are needed—and showcase strategies that are already making a difference.
By the end of the session, operators will be equipped with evidence-based insights and actionable approaches to design and deliver leisure opportunities that ensure everyone, regardless of ability or circumstance, has the chance to engage, belong, and thrive in active communities.