Five volunteering organisations across England will take part in a new programme, run by Spring Impact and Sport England, to reach more people and build an active nation.

The idea is to scale up approaches to volunteering that are successful in engaging a more diverse range of people in sport and physical activity.

Kristen Natale, Head of Volunteering at Sport England explains why the organisations were chosen:

These five organisations have found new and innovative ways to encourage people who might not normally volunteer in sport and physical activity to give their time and take part, enabling others in their community to enjoy an active lifestyle.

‘Go Wild Get Fit’ is organised by Cheshire Wildlife Trust who believe exercising outdoors can improve mental and physical wellbeing. Volunteers are paired with a mentor and undertake physically active tasks like building paths, litter picking, planting trees and removing invasive species.

British Blind Sport have developed ‘See my Voice’, a programme that offers young people a leadership qualification and supports them to develop a range of skills and undertake volunteering roles.

‘Wheels for All’ comes from  Cycling Projects who train leaders to help children and adults with disabilities, have a great day being physically active on adapted cycles.

YMCA Sutton Coldfield involves Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic girls from low socio/economic backgrounds through its ‘Girls Move’ sports volunteering programme, helping them to grow confidence and motivation.

‘She’s Ready’ is delivered by Active Life for a Healthier You in its local community of Southend, Essex. Their project aims to empower more women to become active.

Mohamed Osman, UK Director at Spring Impact said:

With renewed focus on the importance of volunteering to people and communities during the pandemic, there is a strong opportunity to build on this and harness its power to change more lives.

Image: Spring Impact