Our commitment involves challenging barriers, co-designing with communities, and aiding partners in building equitable programmes .
Active Cheshire's role
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Active Cheshire leads efforts to advance inclusion and equity in physical activity and sport.
As a Sport England System Partner, we address inequalities, promote inclusive practices, and guide partners toward co-designed, person-centred solutions in Cheshire and Warrington.
Our work supports the Playing Our Part strategy, where diversity and inclusion drive progress, alongside national initiatives like Sport England’s Uniting the Movement.
“By 2031, we want to have achieved a progressive & inclusive environment supported by diverse networks, empowered places, and systemic change driven by shared knowledge and collaboration.” (Playing our Part 2025)
Report a Concern or Get Support
If you face issues like discrimination, unsafe environments, or barriers to activity in sport or physical activity, reach out for confidential help.
Email: support@activecheshire.org
Why Inclusion Matters?
In Cheshire and Warrington, barriers often prevent people from enjoying physical activity, widening health gaps.
Inclusion isn’t just a principle – Inclusion builds fairer, healthier communities by addressing these challenges.
Key Benefits include:
✅ Reduces health inequalities across the system
✅ Increases access for historically excluded groups
✅ Strengthens partnerships through shared values
✅ Supports local and national strategies (e.g., All Together Fairer)
✅ Empowers people through better physical, mental, and social wellbeing
Our Approach
Our Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) sets out our ambitions and practical steps, Active Cheshire commits to create inclusive and safe cultures.
We advance this through five pillars: leadership, governance, lived experience and co-production, support for delivery, and data-driven insights
1. Leadership & Strategy
Integrate inclusion into strategic planning via DIAP, Moving to Inclusion framework, and Playing Our Part
Provide toolkits and thought leadership for inclusive programmes
Signpost resources like Mind’s Safe and Inclusive Guidance (https://www.mind.org.uk/media/qk5fhhzq/safe-and-effective-practice-report.pdf) for broader improvements
2. Governance & Representation
Conduct regular EDI reviews for staff, leaders, and boards
Share public progress updates and team EDI profiles
Track and act on representation in recruitment, leadership including Board of Trustees
3. Lived Experience Co-Production
Design programmes with input from affected communities, especially in disability and health equity
Encourage stakeholder involvement for clubs and providers
4. Support for Delivery
Guide organisations toward inclusive standards and accreditations
Offer pathways to NGB, local, and national recognitions
5. Data & Insight
Use local data from Pulse (https://activecheshire.org/pulse/) and national sources like Active Lives to spot gaps and track change
Standards & Accreditation
We uphold these commitments through accreditations and pledges that promote fair, safe workplaces and programmes.
Who We Support
Health & Care Partners (e.g., NHS, ICS)
Integrate inclusion into activity pathways, aligned with local health goals
Sport and physical activity Providers (clubs, leisure centres)
Deliver practical guidance and accreditation routes for equitable services
Funders & Policymakers
Supply impact data to justify investments and shape inclusive policies
Inclusion in Action
We deliver real change through targeted initiatives and partnerships.
- Disability and SEND: Broaden access via co-designed programmes and accreditation support
- Ethnically Diverse Communities: Partner with local groups to overcome cultural barriers
- LGBTQ+ Individuals: Promote safe spaces and inclusive events
- Older Adults: Develop age-friendly activities reducing isolation
- Low-Income Households: Offer free or subsidised sessions tied to health strategies
How We Measure Progress
We monitor impact across participation, outcomes, and internal efforts. Please only include loos and links to websites listed in the able.
What We Track:
Get Involved
Health Partners
Align pathways with our DIAP for joint delivery
Community Organisations
Co-produce programmes using lived experience
Individuals/Volunteers
Join events, share stories, or volunteer for equity initiatives
We invite organisations, leaders, and residents to participate.
Contact Us
Quick Links
DIAP Overview
Moving to Inclusion framework
Playing our Part – Strategic enablers
Inclusion Toolkit & Resources (work in progress)
Active Lives Reports
All Together Fairer Strategy
Learn More About Inclusive Practice:
Intersectionality toolkit: https://www.edi-toolkit.org/governance/check-out-some-basic-definitions/intersectionality/
Why inclusive language matters:
Inclusion in Sport & Physical Activity: Latest Insights
This live feed curates news on disability sport, gender equity, mental health, race equity, and safe practices from trusted sources