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NewsJanuary 15, 2026January 28, 2026byadmin

Active Lancashire refreshes ‘Decade of Movement’ strategy to unite local action with national ambition

Active Lancashire has unveiled a refreshed version of its Decade of Movement strategy, reinforcing its commitment to creating a fairer, healthier and more active Lancashire whilst aligning more closely with Sport England’s national Uniting the Movement strategy.

Originally launched in 2021 as a shared 10-year vision to embed movement into everyday life, the refreshed strategy builds on what has been learned through place-based delivery, partnership working and lived experience across Lancashire. It aims to sharpen the organisation’s focus on tackling inequalities to empower local communities and ensure lasting change.

The refresh reflects the same core ambition as Sport England’s Uniting the Movement: to put people and place first, reduce the stark inequalities in access to physical activity and work collaboratively across sectors to create the conditions for active lives.

Active Lancashire’s updated approach recognises that movement is not a luxury, but an essential part of thriving communities, a resilient health system and a stronger local economy. With over a quarter of adults in Lancashire currently inactive and deep health inequalities between places, the strategy reaffirms physical activity as one of the most powerful tools available to improve wellbeing and life chances.

At the heart of the refreshed strategy is a renewed commitment to:

People first – designing activity around real lives, cultures and needs
Place-based working – supporting local partnerships to lead solutions that work for their communities
System change – embedding movement into health, education, planning and employment
Equity and inclusion – prioritising communities with the greatest barriers to being active

The strategy is underpinned by Active Lancashire’s new Theory of Change – a flexible framework providing practical tools, leadership development, shared learning and support to partners at every stage of their journey. This mirrors Sport England’s emphasis on collaboration, local ownership and scaling what works.

Another new addition to the strategy is the inclusion of Environment within Active Lancashire’s core values and strategic priorities. Building on learning from environmental sustainability projects delivered over the past five years, Active Lancashire recognises that access to healthy, sustainable environments is fundamental to enabling active lives. By embedding environmental considerations into decision-making, the organisation aims to create places that not only encourage movement, but also improve wellbeing, reduce health inequalities and support a more resilient future for Lancashire’s communities.

Adrian Leather, CEO of Active Lancashire, said: “Refreshing our Decade of Movement strategy is about sharpening our focus on what really matters – putting people and place first and tackling the deep inequalities that still prevent too many people in Lancashire from being active. By aligning ourselves more closely with the ambitions of Sport England’s Uniting the Movement, and by embedding movement across health, education, active spaces and our environment, we’re uniting local action with national direction. This strategy is a clear commitment to working together so that movement becomes part of everyday life, helping communities across Lancashire to live well and thrive, now and for the next decade.”

Through the refreshed strategy, Active Lancashire will continue to work alongside local authorities, health partners, voluntary organisations, community leaders and residents to embed movement where it matters most – in everyday routines, services and spaces.

The Decade of Movement refresh signals a clear intention: to unite local energy with national ambition, and to ensure that over the next ten years, more people across Lancashire can move more, live well and thrive – whatever their background or circumstances.

To find out more about Active Lancashire’s projects, visit www.activelancashire.org.uk or email news@activelancashire.org.uk

NewsJanuary 15, 2026January 28, 2026byadmin

Nelson-based Youth Engagement Hub Partners with Natwest to Deliver Money Management Sessions to Young People

Pendle YES Hub, a youth employment service based in Nelson, has formed a new partnership with NatWest Burnley to help young people develop essential money management skills.

The collaboration began after Gregg, the Senior Manager at the NatWest Bank in Burnley, saw his daughter Elecia receive support from the YES Hub in 2025. Gregg and his wife, Cat, discovered the service through social media when Elecia began experiencing poor mental health. After struggling to find appropriate support elsewhere, they contacted the YES Hub, who promptly arranged a same-day meeting with Gregg, Cat and Elecia. During the meeting, the family were able to tour the YES Hub’s facilities, meet the team and work together to create a tailored support pathway for Elecia.

Now, Elecia has been able to return to studying for her A‑levels and has also resumed working part‑time. Keen to give something back to the service that helped his daughter rebuild her confidence, Gregg offered to deliver NatWest’s Financial Foundations workshops to YES Hub participants, alongside a fellow team member, Muqqs.

Launched by NatWest in 2024, the Financial Foundations workshops aim to improve young people’s financial wellbeing, covering topics such as budgeting, scam awareness and managing the cost of living. Recently, colleagues from NatWest Burnley visited the YES Hub to deliver an introductory session for staff and partner organisations. The session provided an overview of the workshops, guidance on appropriate referrals, and advice on recognising the signs that a young person may be experiencing financial difficulties.

“Since returning to manage the NatWest Burnley team, supporting our local community has been a key focus. After personally using the Yes Hub’s services for my daughter last year, they were the first organisation I contacted because of the fantastic work Dave and his team do for young people in Pendle. I’m looking forward to collaborating with them to enhance the support they already provide.”

Mehvish Ashraf, Youth Engagement Worker at the YES Hub, who worked closely with Gregg and his daughter during her time at the Hub, said: “NatWest’s Financial Foundations workshops are a welcome addition to the support we offer at the YES Hub for young people aged 16–24. We work with young people who are not currently in employment, education or training, providing a range of services including access to training and qualifications, one-to-one employment support, mental health sessions, and physical activity programmes designed to build confidence before moving into work or education.

“Having worked with Gregg and his daughter last year, it’s clear how passionate he is about ensuring young people have the tools and support they need to thrive. It’s really touching that he has gone above and beyond to support our participants, and we’re excited to be working with him and his colleagues from NatWest Burnley to offer practical financial guidance to the young people we support.”

Pendle YES Hub was set up in 2021 by Pendle Borough Council, the Department for Work and Pensions and Positive Action in the Community and is managed by charity Active Lancashire. The YES Hub offers a wide range of provision for 16-24 year olds who are not currently in education, employment and training. For further information on the YES Hub’s activities or to sign up to the Financial Foundations workshops, please email MAshraf@activelancashire.org.uk or visit www.ActiveLancashire.org.uk

NewsJanuary 9, 2026January 28, 2026byadmin

School Games Logo Competition

Each year, the SPAR Lancashire School Games invites schoolchildren across Lancashire to participate in a range of sport and physical activities designed to help them move more, increase confidence, develop skills, and have fun!

In 2026, the SPAR Lancashire School Games is celebrating its 20th year, and to mark the occasion, we’d like schoolchildren to help us design a special anniversary logo.

To enter, children simply have to draw a design in the template which they think best represents the SPAR Lancashire School Games. This could be anything from sports the child has taken part in, to the values the child thinks the School Games represents! Their design also must include the number 20 somewhere in it.

The winning logo will be featured across SPAR Lancashire School Games’ social media channels and T-shirts worn by over 1,500 children at the School Games’ end of year Finales held in Blackpool, Burnley, Lancaster, and Preston.

What is more, the winning designer will also win their school class and teachers an all expenses paid trip to the European Athletics Championships, sponsored by SPAR, in Birmingham on Tuesday 11th August 2026.

To enter, please upload an image of your child’s drawing below, no later than Tuesday 31st March.

It’s really important that the child keeps hold of the physical the drawing as we will need to use this to recreate the logo into digital form ready to be printed onto T-shirts!

We will contact the school of the winning child no later than Monday 1st June to arrange a presentation announcing the winner.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us on the above email address.

Terms and Conditions

The prize cannot be exchanged for an alternate date or a cash alternative
The competition is for primary schools participating in the SPAR Lancashire School Games
Entries must be hand drawn – use of computer/tablet technology or AI is not allowed
Entries must be produced by an individual and not groups of children or parents/guardians/school staff
Entries must be uploaded through the page set up on the Active Lancashire website (link via QR code)

Design a Logo Flyer

Download

Design a Logo Template

Download

Submit your design

NewsJanuary 7, 2026January 28, 2026byadmin

Active Wellbeing Group launches to Support NHS Ten-Year Strategy

Leisure Services, Charities, NHS therapy teams, and Social Care providers across Lancashire and South Cumbria have collaborated to launch the Active Wellbeing Group, aiming to support the NHS Ten-Year-Strategy.

The Group was created in response to increasing pressures on the healthcare system, including rising NHS waiting times and financial constraints, with the objective of integrating leisure and health services. Through this integration, the Active Wellbeing Group seeks to develop preventative and rehabilitative patient pathways that reduce NHS costs, improve patient outcomes, and support the objectives of the NHS 10-Year Plan.

Since its formation earlier this year, the Group has already initiated several successful pilot projects. Notably, a falls prevention programme led by Otago Burnley and Morecambe Health Trust demonstrates how leisure centres can contribute to both preventative care and step-down rehabilitation for individuals at risk of falls, through targeted strength and balance training. The pilot is being monitored and will potentially expand across the county if successful.

Tom Burton, Strategic Lead for Health and Wellbeing at Sport England, recently attended an Active Wellbeing meeting and was impressed with the actions being taken by the group: “We know people’s health is shaped by the places and communities they live in, so what’s really important to Sport England is that the changes we advocate for across the system are informed by local realities. This means understanding what is working, and what challenges local areas are facing.

“It’s clear that the Active Wellbeing group has a real energy and shared purpose about supporting people and communities. There’s definitely a role that Sport England can play nationally in supporting more groups like this, and it’s great to see this at a local level.”

Adrian Leather, CEO of Active Lancashire, and Stephen Sandford, Chief Allied Health Professions Officer at NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, reflected on the decision to form the group, as well as its success so far and plans for the future, “The Active Wellbeing group was formed as a response to some of the challenges we’ve seen the NHS, healthcare providers and leisure services face in the past few years. The group is really a forum for these individuals to come together and share their experiences, and meet people across organisations who they can begin to work with to tackle these challenges together.

“We’re hoping that the Active Wellbeing group can support the NHS’ 10 year plan of moving from a sickness model of health, to a health model of health by ensuring everybody, across local systems, is aware of what provision and support is available to encourage more collaborative projects such as the Falls Prevention group which is being successfully piloted in Burnley.”

Simon Gwynne, CEO of Pendle Leisure Trust, added, “it is clear that those involved in the group have a shared ambition and excitement for the work we are all doing. There’s fantastic opportunities for us to collaborate with one another, that will ultimately enable us to expand the support that is offered to our communities both now and in the future.”

The Active Wellbeing Group continues to work on expanding the role of leisure centres in supporting healthcare delivery, including advocating for their inclusion in hospital estates strategies, promoting co-location, and fostering joint investment opportunities. These efforts aim to further embed preventative and rehabilitative services into local practice and inform broader policy development.

For more information or to attend the next Active Wellbeing meeting, please visit www.activelancashire.org.uk or email news@activelancashire.org.uk

NewsDecember 18, 2025January 7, 2026byadmin

Team GB Paralympian Visits Active Lancashire-Backed Inclusive Cycling Session

Paralympic gold medalist, Gregg Stevenson MBE, recently attended one of British Cycling’s new inclusive cycling sessions, where he spoke with participants and learned first-hand how the programme has supported them.

Launched in September by British Cycling in partnership with Burnley Outdoor Town, Limitless Cycling provides people who face barriers to physical activity with the opportunity to enjoy cycling in a welcoming and supportive environment, using adapted bikes designed to meet a wide range of needs and abilities.

Around 20 people were present at The Hive in Padiham, enjoying the opportunity to cycle alongside the world and European champion on adapted bikes supplied by local community initiative, Active Cycles. He also joined in with the group’s Couch to 5K session, offering encouragement and inspiration throughout the day.

Participants later shared with Stevenson how the sessions have supported them in becoming more physically active whilst boosting their confidence and mental wellbeing. Now working as a mental health practitioner and veteran support lead with NHS Op COURAGE, the Paralympic gold medalist understands the importance of projects such as Limitless Cycling and the positive impact which they can have on those with disabilities and long-term health conditions.

Speaking of the programme’s importance, Stevenson said: “It’s been an incredible day here at The Hive. As someone from East Lancashire, I’m very aware of the challenges around long-term health conditions and inactivity in our communities.

“To come along and see people out walking, riding bikes, and just enjoying being active is fantastic. On a rare sunny day like this, it’s great to see people engaged, enthusiastic, and connecting with others. Reducing social isolation and promoting wellbeing is so important and The Hive is doing exactly that.”

Volunteers from Active Cycles – a community-driven initiative based in the Arndale Centre, Accrington – met Stevenson at the 2025 Active Hyndburn Awards, where they connected through their shared ambition of ensuring that those who face barriers to sport and physical activity are able to access the support and resources they need to become more physically active.

He was then invited to a Limitless Cycling session and told more about the Active Cycles project, which was set up with the aim of rescuing bikes from landfill and restoring them with the support of volunteer mechanics. These would then be sold back to the community at an affordable cost or donated to community projects such as Limitless Cycling.

Michelle Grimes, Project Lead at Active Cycles, said: “Active Cycles is proud to be able to donate bikes to projects like Limitless Cycling in Burnley, we see the fabulous work that’s going on here and if we do our bit to support and give more people the chance to be active and to access bikes then we are happy! It was great to have our volunteers visit the session so they can see where all their hard work in fixing bikes makes a difference in the community.”

To get involved, individuals can sign up for British Cycling’s inclusive sessions through the British Cycling website or by contacting. Those wishing to support the programme can donate unwanted bikes to Active Cycles by contacting news@Activelancashire.org.uk.

NewsDecember 12, 2025January 7, 2026byadmin

Team GB Olympian vaults SPAR Lancashire School Games into 20th year

A Team GB Olympic Pole Vault star has returned to launch the SPAR Lancashire School Games more than a decade after participating in them.

Harry Coppell was the guest speaker at the launch of the School Games held at James Hall & Co. Ltd’s SPAR Distribution Centre in Preston and he helped vault them into a 20^th year with every edition over the last two decades sponsored by SPAR.

Seventy primary school children from across the Red Rose County attended the launch to hear Harry’s story, posed for photos with Harry, and met SPAR mascot SPARtan who provided entertainment.

Children then enjoyed a tour of the SPAR Distribution Centre, including ambient, fresh and frozen warehouses, alongside their teachers and School Games Organisers.

Harry spoke about how he first got into participating in the pole vault, his time in the Lancashire School Games and the National School Games, and his journey to becoming a professional athlete.

He currently holds the men’s British Pole Vault record, competed at the Tokyo Olympics where he finished seventh, and he is a Commonwealth Games medal winner. When he is not competing and training, he helps deliver School Games activity in West Lancashire. Harry said: “I was delighted to be asked to launch the 20^th SPAR Lancashire School Games in a milestone year and it was a lovely chance for a trip down memory lane to where it all started for me. The children were really engaged and asked some great questions about my career.

“When I made the move back to the West Lancashire area last year, I reconnected with old contacts delivering School Games activity, and I leapt at the chance to get involved again when I was invited to. I have loved supporting that work since.”

It is a big 12 months for Harry with the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July next year closely followed by the European Athletics Championships – sponsored by SPAR – which are coming to Great Britain for the first time when they are held in Birmingham in August 2026.

Harry added: “After a couple of injury affected years, I am raring to go for 2026. It is a unique opportunity to compete twice at major competitions in front of huge crowds in Great Britain.

“Although I missed the Paris Olympics, I won the British title again last year. That has given me confidence going forward and I am embracing the challenge ahead.”

During the visit, children also heard presentations from Joint Managing Director of James Hall & Co. Ltd, Niels Dekkers, who highlighted some fun facts about the company and SPAR, before Adrian Leather, Chief Executive Officer at Active Lancashire, reflected on 20 years of sponsorship of the Lancashire School Games.

Run by Active Lancashire and the School Games Organiser Network, the Lancashire School Games have been sponsored by SPAR through its association with James Hall & Co. Ltd since 2006.

Niels Dekkers said: “What a way to launch the 20^th SPAR Lancashire School Games. It was a pleasure to hear Harry’s story from a previous participant and his rise to become the outstanding British champion and athlete he is today.

“We are looking ahead to another fantastic year of School Games activity across Lancashire, and we have some brilliant plans in the calendar. Our thanks go to Active Lancashire and the School Games Organisers who will be delivering this activity in a special year for the games.”

Adrian Leather said: “Harry is a true inspiration, and he really wowed everyone present with his career progress. It was amazing to learn more about the Pole Vault as a discipline, and we are rooting for him as one of our own in 2026.

“We are incredibly grateful to James Hall & Co. Ltd and SPAR for their dedicated support of the School Games over the last two decades. There is nothing like the Lancashire School Games anywhere else in the country and that is testament to the success of this enduring partnership.”

SPAR Lancashire School Games activity is delivered in three distinct clusters across the county – Coastal, Central, and Pennine – aligned to local needs. In the 2024-25 academic year, this included 45 feature events.

James Hall & Co. Ltd is a fifth-generation family business which serves a network of independent SPAR retailers and company-owned SPAR stores across Northern England six days a week from its base at Bowland View in Preston.

NewsDecember 2, 2025December 5, 2025byadmin

Active Lancashire Launches ‘Place Universal Offer’ to support residents and local communities in Morecambe, Fleetwood and Skelmersdale.

Active Lancashire, the strategic lead for sport and physical activity across the county, is set to launch the Place Universal Offer (PUO) supporting Sport England’s Strategy, ‘Uniting the Movement’.

The PUO will put physical activity at the heart of everyday life in Fleetwood, Morecambe and Skelmersdale – encouraging people to move more in their daily lives. Where someone lives can strongly affect how active our communities are. Active Lancashire and partners will be taking a place-based approach to the work alongside local councils, health services, employers, schools and community groups to create more opportunities for people to be active in ways that work for them. Each area named in the PUO will have a bespoke focus and implementation plan tailored in response to local inequalities – from supporting schools to open their facilities, to helping partners design more joined-up approaches – but the ambition remains the same: making activity more accessible, inclusive and part of daily life.

The offer forms part of Sport England’s ‘Uniting the Movement’ strategy, which is designed to ensure that physical activity is recognised and harnessed as a powerful tool to improve health, reduce inequalities and create lasting positive change across communities.

Paul Blythin, Director of Health and Skills at Active Lancashire, said: “We’re delighted that Sport England are investing further into the communities of Lancashire through the Place Universal Offer. This investment enables us to work with communities to support residents to live healthier, more active lives and help communities to thrive.

“By working closely with local partners, we can make sure opportunities to be active are accessible, inclusive and firmly embedded in the places people live, work and learn.”

Councillor Lynne Bowen, Leisure, Health and Community Engagement Portfolio Holder for Wyre Council adds: “We’re proud to be working with Active Lancashire on the Place Universal Offer, which aligns perfectly with our Wyre Moving More ambition to make physical activity a natural part of everyday life. This partnership supports our wider ambitions to improve health, reduce inequalities and build stronger, more connected communities where everyone has the chance to thrive through movement.”

Alongside targeted work in these priority places, Active Lancashire will also provide county-wide support. This will include helping organisations and communities engage with Sport England’s funded programmes, sharing national campaigns that inspire people to move more, and offering a wide range of digital resources and training opportunities.

The Place Universal Offer work is set to begin this autumn, with colleagues already forming connections in local areas to understand the barriers residents face towards movement. To find out more or get involved, contact office@activelancashire.org.uk or please look at Support to unite sector in place-based work | Sport England

NewsNovember 4, 2025November 4, 2025byadmin

Local families to back new campaign to keep kids active in Lancashire – as two thirds of local parents expect children’s physical activity to drop this winter

Over half of children aren’t getting the recommended 60 minutes of daily activity, with levels set to drop this autumn and winter; and 8 in 10 parents in Lancashire underestimate how much movement kids need.
Government launches ‘Let’s Move!’, a new campaign supported by Sport England, to help keep families active together year round, with targeted areas across Lancashire among the pilot regions.
The campaign is backed by local families who feature in the campaign. The national campaign is also supported by Alex and Olivia Bowen, Max Whitlock, Beth Tweddle, and Joe Wicks, who has shared top tips for parents getting active with children.

Two thirds (66%) of parents in Lancashire say their children’s physical activity levels are likely to suffer a seasonal dip during autumn and winter, with cold or wet weather (43%) and darker evenings (38%) highlighted as the key barriers in new research findings.

To tackle inactivity and help families keep children moving all year-round, the Government has launched ‘Let’s Move!’ in Lancashire, a new campaign supported by Sport England that aims to help parents discover simple, fun, and pressure-free ways to build movement into daily life, which can start with just 10 minutes of activity.

NHS guidance recommends that children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day, including 30 minutes outside of school hours. Yet the new survey reveals that 80%^{^[1]} of parents in Lancashire underestimate how much physical activity children need. Already, more than half of children in England aren’t getting the recommended amount of movement and, worryingly, the research shows this will increase during the colder months.

‘Let’s Move!’ is being piloted in targeted areas of Sandwell, Lancashire, Essex and Bradford where inactivity levels and inequalities are greater than other parts of the country. These areas all receive funding from Sport England via their place partnership programme, to ensure those in greatest need can be active.

Supported by Joe Wicks, the ‘Let’s Move!’ campaign makes staying active easy and affordable, offering ideas from kitchen discos to local activities and playground fun. It encourages families to move together, 87% of parents in Lancashire believe their habits influence their child’s activity levels, and highlights how everyday routines can support healthy, active lifestyles. Regular movement boosts mood, focus, and family connections, with 76% of parents in Lancashire agreeing that their child is happier after being active, has more energy (68%) and has better concentration (71%).

‘Let’s Move!’ aims to support different ways for children to enjoy being active – from sport to play and everyday movement. The campaign features real families from across Lancashire and other regions having fun getting active together in ways which suit them, such as dancing or playing in the playground. Their images are featured in out-of-home and social channels in the local areas to inspire others to visit nhs.uk/LetsMove for tips, local activities and inspiration.

Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock said: “Building a more active nation is a huge part of this Government’s Plan for Change and we want to show families all over the country just how many ways there are to get involved.

“Whether it’s dancing, playing team sport or playing in the playground with their friends, we know that children who get at least an hour of exercise a day experience so many benefits – they’re happier, healthier and focus better at school.

“I am determined that every child, whatever their circumstances, should have those opportunities.”

Charline from Blackpool, who features in the out of home advertising campaign with her two children, said: “We’re not a traditionally sporty family, but family cycles on the beach and swimming at our local leisure club has been an incredible way for my kids to get moving. It’s something they genuinely enjoy, and it doesn’t feel like exercise – it feels like play! It’s now part of our weekly routine. This movement has boosted their confidence, helped them sleep better, and even improved their focus at school. It’s shown us that movement can be joyful, simple, and something we look forward to doing all together, which is what the ‘Let’s Move!’ campaign is all about.”

Angela from Burnley, who also features in the advertising with her two children, said: “As the darker nights set in, it can be a challenge to keep the kids motivated to move. But we’ve discovered that even the simplest activities – like long walks, ParkPlay, or dancing around the kitchen – make a big difference. They help keep our children active, boost their mood, and improve their focus. That’s why we’re proud to support the ‘Let’s Move!’ campaign – it’s all about making movement fun and accessible for every family.”

Cllr Jo Farrell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing, said: “We’re proud to support the ‘Let’s Move!’ campaign here in Blackpool. Being active isn’t just about fitness-it’s about feeling good, connecting with others, and improving our wellbeing together. Whether it’s a walk in the park, dancing at home, or joining a local group, every movement counts. We’re committed to helping residents find fun, accessible ways to move more and feel better.”

The campaign is part of the Government’s wider effort to break down barriers to physical activity for people all over the country. Already, more than £900 million has been committed to build grassroots facilities in the places that need them most and deliver a pipeline of major sports events that inspire the nation. Alongside this, the new School Sport Partnerships and Enrichment Framework will ensure all young people have equal access to high-quality sport and extracurricular activity. Sport England evidence shows that improved health from participation in sport and physical activity relieves pressure on the NHS through £10.5 billion a year in health and social care savings.

While over half (57%) of parents in Lancashire say their children really enjoy traditional forms of sport, others face barriers such as low confidence (31%) or a dislike of competitiveness (30%). However, 94% of parents in Lancashire say their children enjoy physical play as a form of movement, with top activities including visiting the playground (43%), riding a bike (31%), dancing (51%) and playing tag or chase (33%).

Parents and TV personalities Alex and Olivia Bowen launched the wider campaign in Essex alongside inspiring local families, demonstrating that movement really can be for everyone. Olympic champions Beth Tweddle and Max Whitlock led activities at the event, including dance challenges to obstacle courses, as families shared how they’ve been inspired to get active this winter.

Joe Wicks, who got the nation moving during ‘PE With Joe’, is backing the campaign following the success of his animated workout series Activate, which was supported by a cross-section of government departments including DCMS, DfE and DHSC. The series aims to make fitness fun for kids with short five-minute animated workouts. He shares new top tips as part of the ‘Let’s Move!’ campaign to help families slot activity into their everyday life, including being a role model, exploring local activities and getting outside whatever the weather.

The campaign supports the Government’s Health Mission, which prioritises preventative health measures, including addressing physical inactivity. Sport England data also shows significant inequalities remain in activity levels, with Black (42%) and Asian (43%) children and young people, and those from the least affluent families (45%), still less likely to play sport or be physically active than the average across all ethnicities and affluence groups.

[1] 80% of parents in Lancashire think children should be doing less than 60 minutes of physical activity daily as a minimum

NewsOctober 29, 2025October 29, 2025byadmin

High Sheriff and Mayor of Pendle Visit Local Youth Employment Service

Pendle YES Hub, a Youth Employment and Support service for young people based in Nelson, recently showcased their services to the High Sheriff of Lancashire and the Mayor of Pendle.

The visit offered a first-hand look at the provision which the Hub and its partners provide to young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, employment or training. During their visit, the High Sheriff and Mayor were able to learn more about the YES Hub’s bike hire library, a free service which enables individuals aged 18 or over to borrow a bike for up to one month, regardless of whether or not they currently access the YES Hub’s services.

The pair were also able to connect with participants of the YES Hub to learn more about the provision which it offers, including a series of free, weekly activities designed to boost young peoples’ wellbeing including a weekly gym and swim session thanks to Pendle Wavelengths. The YES Hub also offers one-to-one provision including mental health support and jobseeking advice, and can also provide young people with access to free training and support opportunities.

High Sheriff of Lancashire, Jim Carter DL, who has been much involved with the Youth Zone movement in Lancashire a charity supporting young people, was impressed by the YES Hub’s offering and is keen to support them during his year in office: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my two visits to Pendle Yes Hub. As a great supporter of helping young people realise their potential, I am really impressed with the support that is being given by the group of dedicated staff and volunteers.”

Also present during the visit was Tesco Burnley Community Champion, Muhkatar, who shared how he has been working with the YES Hub over the last twelve months to provide essential hygiene and food donations for participants who are at-risk of homelessness. More recently, Muhkatar supported the YES Hub in accessing Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, which resulted in a £1000 donation to the youth support hub.

With this donation, the YES Hub is set to take a group of young people – many of whom have never left Nelson before – on an educational visit to York this Christmastime, where they will visit key historical sites including the Jorvick Viking Centre.

To help young people enjoy their trip even further, Muhkatar kindly donated electrical items for the YES Hub to raffle off, the proceeds from which will be gifted to young people to spend at one of York’s many shops, including the festive markets. To enter the raffle, please click here.

The YES Hub works alongside various local stakeholders and partners to deliver its provision, including Positive Action in the Community and the Department for Work and Pensions. The YES Hub is ran by Active Lancashire on behalf of Pendle Borough Council, and receives funding through the Nelson Town Deal, and is open 10AM – 4PM Monday to Friday.

For more information about Pendle YES Hub or to access its services, please email office@activelancashire.org.uk or call 07465 759911

NewsOctober 21, 2025January 7, 2026byadmin

Active Lancashire launches “Fresh Wheels” – a community fruit & veg stall promoting health, skills, and sustainability in Rossendale

Active Lancashire, in partnership with Rossendale Borough Council, is launching Fresh Wheels – a new community-led fruit and vegetable stall. Running every Friday from 31st October 2025 to 23rd January 2026 at Haslingden Market, Fresh Wheels will bring fresh, affordable produce to local residents while promoting healthy lifestyles, sustainability, and skill development through volunteering.

The initiative aims to make it easier for the community to access affordable, high-quality produce while encouraging active travel. Shoppers will be able to earn discounts through the “Walk, Wheel & Save” scheme, which rewards those who travel to the stall by walking, cycling, or wheeling. The stall will also feature a Smoothie Bike Station, where visitors can pedal their own smoothies and learn about the benefits of staying active.

Managed by mentors from Rossendale Works, Active Lancashire’s Employability Programme, the project will provide volunteering opportunities for local residents, particularly those facing barriers to employment. Volunteers will gain hands-on experience in retail, budgeting, marketing, and customer service, supported by ongoing training and mentoring throughout the 12-week programme. The experience aims to build confidence, develop practical skills, and improve employment prospects for participants.

Fresh Wheels is also committed to supporting the local economy and protecting the environment. Wherever possible, produce will be locally sourced, and the stall will use reusable packaging, composting, and eco-friendly delivery methods, with any surplus produce donated to local food banks and community schemes. Regular customers will be able to take part in the “Pedal Points” scheme, rewarding repeat visits and encouraging continued engagement in active, sustainable living.

Beyond its initial 12-week pilot, Fresh Wheels aims to demonstrate a sustainable, community-led model for promoting health, wellbeing, and employability. Active Lancashire and Rossendale Borough Council will explore options for long-term sustainability through sponsorships, grants, and potential expansion across Rossendale.

Paul Becouarn, Project Lead at Rossendale Works, said: “Fresh Wheels is more than just a market stall – it’s a movement towards a healthier, more connected community. By combining fresh food, active travel, and skills development, we’re helping local people take positive steps for their wellbeing and future.

“This initiative shows how local partnerships can make a real difference. Fresh Wheels brings affordable produce, new opportunities, and a renewed sense of community energy to Haslingden Market.”

Fresh Wheels launches on Friday 31st October 2025 at Haslingden Market and will run every Friday for 12 weeks until 23rd January 2026. For more information, email volunteering@activelancashire.org.uk

NewsOctober 17, 2025January 7, 2026byadmin

Active Cycles Supports Friends of Ightenhill Park Festival with Bike Donations and Pedal-Powered Smoothies

Active Cycles, a community-driven bike shop based in Accrington, has supported the annual Friends of Ightenhill Park Festival with a generous donation of bicycles and its popular Smoothie Bike attraction.

Ran by the charity Active Lancashire, Active Cycles rescues disused bikes from landfill and restores them with the support of volunteer mechanics. Bikes are then either sold at an affordable cost from their shop in the Arndale Centre, Accrington, or are donated to local initiatives.

The donation to the popular Burnley festival reflects Active Cycles’ commitment to supporting the local community, promoting safe and affordable travel, and enhancing Lancashire’s green spaces. The festival itself aims to raise funds for park activities and facility maintenance, with over £2000 raised by the volunteer-led group this year.

During the event, Active Cycles’ donated bikes were put on sale to fair go-ers – with the stall being manned by park volunteer Amanda Thornton (and her dad!). Amanda also sits as an Independent Board Member with Active Lancashire and said, “The sweet spot comes when community groups work together – and I am delighted that Ightenhill Park benefits from Active Cycles and vice versa!

“The bikes are donated by local people – for local people, and with Christmas approaching – watch this space for other ways to either donate or purchase bikes for your friends and family”.

Attendees, including the Mayor of Burnley Councillor Paul Reynolds, were also able to make their very own healthy, pedal-powered smoothie thanks to Active Cycles’ Smoothie Bike.

Following the festival, Friends of Ightenhill Park volunteers have continued their partnership with Active Cycles by donating disused bicycles for refurbishment. Once restored, these bikes will be rehomed through local community projects to promote sustainable transport and recycling. The group also plans to host a Bike Amnesty Day, inviting the public to donate unwanted bicycles for restoration and reuse.

Friends of Ightenhill Park is a volunteer-led organisation that meets monthly to improve and maintain park facilities, including the ball court, playground, and community garden. For more information on their work, or to get involved, please click here.

For more information about Active Cycles, visit www.activelancashire.org.uk or email news@activelancashire.org.uk

Guest BlogAugust 11, 2025September 16, 2025byadmin

How schools can use outdoor learning to keep students active

Not every child jumps at the chance to play, run or even just face the elements and go outdoors. According to the Mental Health Foundation, approximately 47% of children are believed to be physically active, while 30.2% have less than 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

In schools, encouraging students to be active and engaged in physical activity and outdoor learning is easier said than done. Some children are less likely to have positive attitudes towards sports and activities, with some feeling uncomfortable and others wanting to avoid embarrassment or the unpredictable weather.

The Youth Sport Trust found that 71% of young people want to be more active at school and 93% believe PE is important. However, playing a game of football, running around a playground and doing PE aren’t the only ways to keep children fit and healthy in school.

Outdoor learning and outdoor play can be a great way to encourage students to be active and open their minds to new ways of thinking.

Throughout this blog from education recruitment agency Spencer Clarke Group, you’ll discover how schools can use outdoor learning to keep students active.

What is outdoor learning?

Outdoor learning is an active approach to teaching and learning which involves leaving the classroom and taking the lessons outside. Outdoor learning isn’t limited to PE or nature studies, it can complement any lesson or area of the curriculum from maths and history to drama and art. This approach facilitates learning, promotes hands-on experiences and deepens engagement while offering an experiential approach to learning in a real world setting.

School-based outdoor learning can be valuable to a wide range of children as with regular access to nature and outdoor learning, school staff can be confident knowing that students can learn while they stay active.

What are the benefits of outdoor learning to keep students active?

The benefits of outdoor learning to keep students active:

Positive mental and emotional impact.
Improve motor skills.
Build confidence.
Develop a love of nature.
Encourages teamwork and strengthens social skills.

One of the biggest benefits to outdoor learning is the impact it has on physical health and fitness. The big, open environment encourages students to take advantage of the space, move freely and fully engage with their surroundings.

Spending time outdoors daily helps keep children fit and healthy physically and provides opportunities to stretch their minds.

Learning outside of the classroom in natural environments can deliver a range of outcomes and benefits that support teaching and learning including boosting confidence and emotional development. An outdoor learning environment can encourage staff and students to see each other in a different light, encourage creative and divergent thinking as well as improve self-awareness.

It is not just keeping students physically active, but is also about keeping their minds active. Outdoor learning can positively impact children’s development and motor skills, social skills and socio-emotional skills. Learning in the classroom can enhance social skills, engagement and academic outcomes as well as have a positive mental and emotional impact.

According to Youth Sport Trust, 96% of Teachers agree that sport and play benefit mental wellbeing. Simply teaching outdoors and spending time outside can positively impact the wellbeing of both students and teachers, not just their physical health. Being in outdoor learning spaces surrounded by nature can greatly improve mood, enhance motivation and reduce stress, leading to better focus and productivity.

Ways to use outdoor learning to keep students active

Outdoor learning offers a wide range of opportunities to keep students active beyond traditional sports or outdoor lessons. There are other ways to use outdoor learning to keep students engaged and active, such as engaging in open-ended play and construction play to keep students active, curious and connected to the world around them.

From growing a vegetable garden and doing a scavenger hunt to races or obstacle courses.

Walks, nature trails and insect hunts can help students develop their geography and history skills as well as their fitness. Going on an insect hunt involves walking, light exercise and concentration all while keeping students’ minds and bodies active and constantly learning.

As they explore the outdoors, students can take photographs or create drawings of the things they see such as natural features, architecture or wildlife.

By combining movement with purposeful, enjoyable and meaningful learning, students are more likely to stay active without even realising it!

Low impact movement like walking, navigating or climbing can help build stamina, coordination and cardiovascular health. It can also encourage students to engage with their environment, be creative and foster a love of nature.

Who is Spencer Clarke Group?

Spencer Clarke Group is a specialist education recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Operating nationwide, they help schools to find experienced teaching and support staff on a daily, temporary, temp-perm or permanent basis.

After growing exponentially since they launched in 2017, Spencer Clarke Group was named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the 2024 Recruiter Awards.

NewsAugust 4, 2025August 4, 2025byadminNo Comments

Active Lancashire Launches New Environmental and Sustainability Toolkit to Support Businesses and Community Groups

Active Lancashire, the county’s strategic lead for sport and physical activity, has officially launched its brand-new Environmental and Sustainability Toolkit – a practical, user-friendly resource designed to support businesses and community groups in building a greener, more sustainable Lancashire.

The toolkit offers practical guidance, case studies, and resources that aim to empower organisations of all sizes to reduce their environmental impact. It features tools like carbon footprint calculators, sustainability checklists, and strategies for sustainable event planning, digital efficiency, green transport, and eco-conscious purchasing.

Active Lancashire has already embedded a range of environmental practices into its own operations and community projects. Its award-winning Active Cycles scheme refurbishes donated bikes for resale at affordable prices, cutting waste and emissions while improving cycling access for low-income households, whilst its neighbouring charity shop Active Seconds promotes reuse by selling second-hand household and sports equipment. Other initiatives include community allotment sessions through Rossendale Works, recycling partnerships with local schools, and internal practices such as sustainable Secret Santas and using carbon calculator tools to guide emissions reduction.

Highlights from the toolkit include:

Practical Steps to Cut Emissions: Including ‘10 Ways to Cut a Tonne from Your Carbon Footprint’.
Tools for Action: Carbon calculators, environmental assessment templates, and links to funding opportunities.
Success Stories: Including flagship projects like Active Cycles and Active Seconds.
Sustainable Club Management: Covering governance, facilities, travel, and engagement strategies tailored to local sports clubs and community groups.

Active Lancashire’s recent carbon audit shows that over half of its emissions come from employee commuting. This insight is being used to shape the organisation’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) plans moving forward, with a continued focus on encouraging active and sustainable travel solutions—another key element of the toolkit.

The toolkit is available now and free to access for all community organisations and businesses across Lancashire via this link.

NewsAugust 1, 2025August 1, 2025byadminNo Comments

Free bike hire is being offered to Pendle residents thanks to Pendle Borough Council and Active Cycles.

Adults throughout the borough will be able to borrow a bike this summer through a new initiative from Active Cycles, a community-driven cycling initiative.

Having already established a Bike Hire Library at its shop in Accrington, Active Cycles is now able to expand its offering to Pendle thanks to Pendle Borough Council and Lancashire County Council.

The scheme is being funded by money given to Pendle Borough Council from Lancashire County Council’s Public Health Activation Project.

Councillor David Whipp, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “The Bike Hire Library is designed to make cycling more accessible by removing financial barriers and encouraging active travel for all.

“Whether it’s for commuting, leisure, improving fitness, or simply rediscovering the joys of cycling, the initiative opens the door to healthier and more sustainable lifestyles.”

The bike hire service will be based at the Pendle YES Hub on Scotland Road in Nelson.

The YES Hub is a youth employment and skills service delivered by Active Cycles’ parent company Active Lancashire on behalf of Pendle Borough Council, the Department for Work and Pensions and Positive Action in the Community.

Those aged 18 or over will be able to hire a bike for up to one month completely free of charge, regardless of whether they access the YES Hub’s provision.

As an added incentive, anyone who hires a bike for two weeks or more will receive a £10 voucher to be used at the Active Cycles bike shop towards the purchase of an adult bicycle, with refurbished bikes available starting from just £50.

Dave Marshall, Project Lead at Pendle YES Hub added: “We’re delighted to support Active Cycles in the expansion of their Bike Hire Library scheme.

“The YES Hub uses physical activity as a tool to break down the barriers our participants face towards employment, education and their overall wellbeing; so we’ve witnessed first-hand the positive impact that having access to a bike can have on individuals and believe that the scheme will really support members of our community – whether it’s helping them travel to work, go for a job interview, or simply getting out and about in nature.

“It’s important to say that anybody is welcome to hire a bike from us, whether they access other support from us or not.”

To support new and returning cyclists, cycling education specialists Go Velo have developed a series of accessible and inclusive cycling routes in and around Pendle. These routes are designed for riders of all abilities, from beginners to experienced cyclists, helping residents build confidence while exploring their local area.

The initiative aligns with broader public health and environmental goals set by both local authorities and national government, promoting active lifestyles, improved air quality and reduced congestion.

Residents interested in hiring a bike can visit Bike Library – Pendle by Active Lancashire on cademy.io or email news@activelancashire.org.uk, or visit Pendle YES Hub on Scotland Road in Nelson, Monday – Friday 10am – 3pm.

NewsAugust 1, 2025August 1, 2025byadminNo Comments

Hundreds of children participate in SPAR Lancashire School Games Blackpool Finale

Hundreds of children from Blackpool, Fylde, Lancaster, and Heysham took part in the SPAR Lancashire School Games Finale held at Blackpool Sports Centre and Stanley Park.

An action-packed agenda of events and activities was put on as the School Games for 2024-25 in the Coastal Lancashire cluster concluded.

Under blue skies and brilliant sunshine, there was a carnival atmosphere and activities on the day included girls’ football, tag rugby, wheelchair basketball, boccia (polybat), curling, dodgeball, and archery.

Run by Active Lancashire and the School Games Organiser Network, the Lancashire School Games have been sponsored by SPAR through its association with James Hall & Co. Ltd since 2006.

The SPAR Lancashire School Games are delivered in three distinct clusters in Lancashire – Coastal, Central, and Pennine – aligned to local needs, and in the 2024-25 academic year, 30,000 children across the county have participated in the Games.

Dominic and Harry from Carr Hill High School in Kirkham participated in polybat and wheelchair basketball as part of the Panathlon activities.

Dominic said: “I really enjoyed taking part in new sports that I had never participated in which are designed for people with disabilities. It was interesting to see how sports can be adapted for people with disabilities. Some of them were harder than you think they would be!

“I really enjoyed wheelchair basketball, the coaches were great, and it was a lot of fun. It was quite challenging, but I would love to do it again!”

Harry said: “Playing these new sports helped me to gain confidence because although I found it difficult at first, I was able to learn new techniques and ended up really enjoying it. The wheelchair basketball made us work as part of a team, especially because we were playing against some of the coaches who are professionals. It has been a fun day.”

Daisy and Ruby from Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Thornton-Cleveleys took part in the girls’ football.

Daisy said: “Today has felt like a big celebration and it has been a way to relax and have fun, even though we have been playing football all day. I did not really care if we lost a match or could not stop a goal, because we were all having fun together – although it was nice to win!”

Ruby said: “For some people in my class, this is their first time at an event like this. It has been amazing to take part in a competition where we have been able to show off the skills we have practised this year, but I think my favourite part has just been working as part of a team with my friends.”

Hannah Newell, School Games Organiser for Blackpool, said: “The sun always shines for the School Games Finale in Blackpool and what fantastic warm weather we had for the occasion once again.

“I was thrilled to see so many young people from Lancashire’s coastal region taking part in a range of activities designed to increase physical activity and learn and develop new skills. They are days to remember, and it is why I love delivering the activities now as a School Games Organiser having taken part in them when I was at school.”

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Author: admin