News & Events

Summer holiday activities

Need some entertainment during the summer holidays?

We have lots of fun activities on offer across our Active Nottingham leisure centres. See below what is happening:

Clifton Leisure Centre: 

Swimming

Choose from Swim for All with Flume, Swim for Fun or Notts Splash Tots this summer:

Pre-booking is required and bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. The times and information provided were correct when going to print and may change without notice. For up-to-date timings, please click here.

Little Treasures Soft Play 

A two-story play frame packed full of challenges for your child. Pirates and princesses can explore the Octopus lair and the fun hanging features of the biff snakes – a unique and challenging under-the-sea adventure. Suitable for toddlers as well as children, with different designated areas to keep everyone on the hunt for treasure!

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance via the Active Nottingham app or here.

Birthday Parties

Don’t forget to enquire today about our birthday parties at Clifton, we even have an amazing party room to make your child’s birthday extra special. With a range of children’s party packages available, Clifton is the perfect choice for your celebrations.

Djanogly Community Leisure Centre: 

Join friends and family at Djanogly Community Leisure Centre this summer with their Swim for Fun (1m depth), Swim for All (1m depth) and Splash About (0.30m depth) sessions.

Pre-booking is required and bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. The times and information provided were correct when going to print and may change without notice. For up-to-date timings, please click here.

Ken Martin Leisure Centre: 

Join friends and family at Ken Martin Leisure Centre this summer at their Swim for Fun sessions.

Pre-booking is required and bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. The times and information provided were correct when going to print and may change without notice. For up-to-date timings, please click here.

Harvey Hadden Sports Village – programme starts Monday 31 July 2023

Pool Parties/Pool Disco

Join us by the pool with friends and family and splash about with our pool inflatables.

H20 Water Obstacle Course

Are you ready to take on the H20 Challenge at Harvey Hadden Sports Village? It’s a great family activity, suitable for children aged 6 and above! This a fun and brilliant way to get active with a difference – try not to fall and see who can get to the finish line first!

Will you rise to the Challenge or make a splash? For more information on dates, how to book and to read the safety details click here.

Pre-booking is required and bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. The times and information provided were correct when going to print and may change without notice.

Southglade Leisure Centre: 

Pool Parties

Join us by the pool with friends and family and splash about with our pool inflatables.

Swim for Fun with Flume

A great way to work on your swimming skills whilst enjoying our great flume ride! (Height restrictions apply – 1.2 meters minimum, single riders only).

Notts Splash Tots

A swim session for aged five and under with floats and toys. Designed to introduce children to swimming and develop water confidence.

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. The times and information provided were correct when going to print and may change without notice. For up-to-date timings, please click here.

Victoria Leisure Centre:

Join friends and family at Victoria Leisure Centre this summer with their Swim for Fun and Swim for All sessions.

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. The times and information provided were correct when going to print and may change without notice. For up-to-date timings, please click here.

Active Nottingham wins an internationally recognised health and safety accolade from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA)

Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council, has scooped a prestigious RoSPA Gold Award in the Leisure Safety category for the fourth time, demonstrating its commitment to high health and safety standards.

In addition to the RoSPA Gold Award, Active Nottingham was also presented with the RoSPA Leisure Safety Trophy; which is given to the overall highest performer within the Leisure Safety Award category and recognises excellence in health and safety management.

The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards is the UK’s largest occupational health and safety awards programme. Now into its 67th year, the Awards have almost 2,000 entries every year, covering nearly 50 countries and a reach of over seven million employees. The programme recognises organisations’ commitment to continuous improvement in the prevention of accidents and ill health at work, looking at entrants’ overarching health and safety management systems, including practices such as leadership and workforce involvement.

While most awards are non-competitive – recognising individual organisations’ achievements – competitive awards are presented in 20 industry sectors and for specialist areas of health and safety management.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis said: “I am thrilled the team have achieved Gold at the RoSPA Awards. To achieve this for a fourth time is a credit to the hard work of the management team and staff at each of our leisure centres, who ensure the safety of our customers is a top priority.

“I’m delighted Active Nottingham has been recognised, for being one of the best in the country within the leisure industry, even more so with the addition of the RoSPA Leisure Safety Trophy.”

Julia Small, RoSPA’s Achievements Director, said: “Accidents at work and work-related ill health don’t just have huge financial implications or cause major disruption – they significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. That’s why good safety performance deserves to be recognised and rewarded.

“We are thrilled that Active Nottingham has won a RoSPA Award and would like to congratulate them on showing an unwavering commitment to keeping their employees, clients and customers safe from accidental harm and injury.”

Sponsored by Croner-i, the RoSPA Awards scheme is the longest-running of its kind in the UK, and receives entries from organisations across the globe, making it one of the most sought-after achievement awards for the health and safety industry.

Pictured left to right:
Errol Taylor – RoSPA, Chief Executive.
Geoff Ritson – Nottingham City Council, Sport and Leisure – Health, Safety and Training Manager

ENDS

Notes to Editor(s)

• Active Nottingham operates six leisure centres across the city of Nottingham: Clifton Leisure Centre, Djanogly Community Leisure Centre, Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Southglade Leisure Centre and Victoria Leisure Centre. Visit www.activenottingham.com for more information or to find your nearest centre.
• About the RoSPA Awards
  The RoSPA Awards is one of the most prestigious and recognised health and safety schemes in the world with almost 2,000 entries every year from more than 50 countries, with a total reach of over seven million employees. Running for nearly 70 years, it recognises and rewards organisations, individuals and teams that go above and beyond to achieve health and safety excellence.
• About the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA)
  RoSPA is a not-for-profit organisation that has worked for more than 100 years to help people recognise and reduce their risk of accidents, at home, on the road, at work and at leisure. Their goal is to enable everyone to live their lives to the full, safely. For further information on RoSPA and its history, please see here.

May Half Term holiday activities

Need some entertainment during the school holidays?

We offer many fun activities across our Active Nottingham leisure centres. (Please note, the information advertised below was correct at the time of going to print. Always check the live timetables for any alterations prior to making any journeys).

See below what is happening:

Clifton Leisure Centre: 30 May – 2 June 2023

Swimming

• Tuesday to Thursday: 10.30 am to 11.15 am – Swim for All with Flume in the leisure pool
• Tuesday to Thursday: 1.30 pm to 2.15 pm – Swim for Fun in the main pool
• Tuesday to Thursday: 2.30 pm to 3.15 pm – Swim for All with Flume in the leisure pool

Pre-booking is required for both the Swim for Fun and Swim for All with Flume sessions. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct when going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Little Treasures Soft Play

A two-story play frame packed full of challenges for your child. Pirates and princesses can explore the Octopus lair and the fun hanging features of the biff snakes – a unique and challenging under-the-sea adventure. Suitable for toddlers and children, with different designated areas to keep everyone on the hunt for treasure!

Little Treasures is open Monday to Friday 9 am – 6 pm and from 9 am – 3 pm on weekends – excluding Bank Holidays when the centre is closed.

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct when going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Birthday Parties

Clifton Leisure Centre has a range of children’s party packages available, perfect for any celebrations you might be having.

Djanogly Community Leisure Centre: 30 May – 4 June 2023

Join friends and family at Djanogly Community Leisure Centre for Swim for Fun, Splash About and Swim for All sessions.

Please note – Djanogly Community Leisure Centre will also extend its health suite opening between 30 May and 4 June 2023. Please refer to the app or timetable for times and availability.

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. Timings are subject to change without prior notice. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Ken Martin Leisure Centre: 30 May – 2 June 2023

Swim for Fun:

• Tuesday: 10:00 am to 11:00 am & 13:30 pm to 14:30 pm
• Wednesday: 13:30 pm to 14:30 pm
• Thursday: 10:00 am to 11:00 am & 13:30 pm to 14:30 pm
• Friday: 10:00 am to 11:00 am & 13:30 pm to 14:30 pm

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct when going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Harvey Hadden Sports Village: 30 May – 2 June 2023

Pool Parties

Join us by the pool with friends and family and splash about with our pool inflatables. Available on:

• Tuesday 30 May: 09:45 am to 10:45 am and a Pool Disco from 11:00 am to 12noon
• Thursday 1 June: 09:45 am to 10:45 am and a Pool Disco from 11:00 am to 12noon

H20 Water Obstacle Course

Are you ready to take on the H20 Challenge at Harvey Hadden Sports Village? It’s a great family activity, suitable for children aged 6 and above! This a fun and brilliant way to get active with a difference – try not to fall and see who can get to the finish line first!

Will you rise to the Challenge or make a splash? For more information on dates, how to book and to read the safety details click here.

Pre-booking is required for all pool parties and H20 Water Obstacle Course sessions. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct when going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Southglade Leisure Centre: 30 May – 2 June 2023

Pool Parties

When are the pool parties? Every Tuesday and Thursday, between 30 May and 2 June 2023. Session times:

• 1.15 pm – 2.15 pm
• 2.30 pm – 3.30 pm

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. So grab your swimming clothes, get a booking and we’ll see you by the pool. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct when going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Swim for Fun with Flume

A great way to work on your swimming skills whilst enjoying our great flume ride! (Height restrictions apply – 1.2 meters minimum, single riders only).

When are the Swim for Fun with Flume sessions? Session times are listed below, including Pool Party times:

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. So grab your swimming clothes, get a booking and we’ll see you by the pool. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct at the time of going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Victoria Leisure Centre: 30 May – 2 June 2023

Join friends and family at Victoria Leisure Centre with their Swim for Fun and Swim for All sessions this half term.

• Tuesday 30 May:
  • 13:30 to 13:30 pm, Swim for Fun – both pools
  • 14:45 to 15:00 pm, Swim for All – main pool
• Wednesday 31 May:
  • 09:30 to 10:30 am, Swim for Fun – small pool
  • 10:45 to 11:45 am, Swim for All – main pool
  • 13:30 to 14:30, Swim for Fun – both pools
• Thursday 1 June:
  • 09:00 to 10:00 am, Swim for Fun – main pool
  • 10:00 to 11:00 am, Swim for Fun – small pool
  • 15:00 to 16:00 pm, Swim for All – main pool
• Friday 2 June:
  • 10:00 to 11:00 am, Swim for Fun – main pool
  • 11:00 to 12noon, Swim for Fun – small pool
  • 13:30 to 14:30 pm, Swim for Fun – both pools

Pre-booking is required. Bookings can be made up to 7 days in advance. Timings are subject to change without prior notice, the times shown above were correct when going to press. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

*Activities per site may vary and are subject to availability. Pre-booking required. Timings are subject to change without prior notice. Please check the Active Nottingham app or timetable for the most up-to-date timings.

Active Nottingham swimming pools awarded PoolMark Accreditation

Swimmers attending any of the six Active Nottingham swimming pools, part of Nottingham City Council, can be assured they meet the highest quality standards after achieving the PoolMark Accreditation from the Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG).

The Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG) is the leading authority on swimming pool operation, water treatment and technical information relating to health and safety.

PoolMark is the UK National Standard for quality, healthy pools. The PoolMark certification assures operators and the public that the pool meets essential healthy pool operational standards.

Pools that follow and achieve the Code’s standards through assessment are awarded a plaque and certificate to show their achievement.

Jonathan Cook (Swimming Pools Technical Officer) and Ian Dunphy (Assistant Manager/Project Lead) from Clifton Leisure Centre (pictured above) said: “We’re proud to have undertaken this journey for Active Nottingham’s swimming pools. It’s a first for Nottingham City, as only 42 swimming pools (out of the 800+ pools in the UK) have been accredited, and we have six of those – it’s a huge achievement for us.”

To find your nearest Active Nottingham swimming pool visit, www.activenottingham.com/centres/

Digital improvements for Active Nottingham customers for 2023

Members of Active Nottingham leisure centres are set to benefit from improvements to their accounts, making bookings and payments easier.

The introduction of a new Leisure Management System (LMS) in late spring 2023 at Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council, will offer members more control over their fitness.

The new software, provided by Legend, aims to deliver more flexibility, streamline bookings and payments and make it easier for citizens to access leisure centre services. The system will also enable Active Nottingham to gain better insights into its customer base through improved tracking and reporting systems.

John Wileman, Head of Sport and Leisure for Active Nottingham, said: “The introduction of a new Leisure Management System is an exciting time for Active Nottingham as the improved features will allow residents more flexibility when it comes to managing their account, booking online and via the mobile app.

“Combined with the gym improvement project at Clifton Leisure Centre and Harvey Hadden Sports Village, 2023 is set to be an exciting year for us.”

Implementation of the new system will be rolled out in late Spring 2023 and further updates will be provided via the Active Nottingham website in the coming weeks.

Active Nottingham gyms undergo a major transformation

The gyms at Harvey Hadden Sports Village and Clifton Leisure Centre are currently being transformed as part of a wider £1.5m investment for new equipment and set to reopen to the public on Tuesday 28 March 2023.

The average lifespan for a cardio machine is five years and the costs to repair will outstrip the value of the machine, resulting in a higher repair bill. This £1.5m cash injection will make sure each centre has new kit for gym-goers to use.

The money has been set aside to support the income generated from customers, allowing the investment to be made without the need for borrowing or impacting on wider day-to-day council services.

Active Nottingham, which is part of Nottingham City Council, is investing the money over five years across all of its six leisure centres – Harvey Hadden, Clifton, Ken Martin, Southglade, Victoria and Djanogly.

The revamp at Clifton and Harvey Hadden features premium equipment from Life Fitness, Hammer Strength and ICG ® – suitable for all training interests and fitness levels. The new kit will also feature immersive digital experiences with new cardio consoles, a functional zone with a stretching area and environmentally friendly Green Zones with self-powered equipment so more can be done to help the environment.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “it was great to visit the gym at Clifton Leisure Centre this week during the installation process, to see the new and improved facilities, meet the team and see their excitement for the gym to reopen. I’m confident these improvements will become a real asset to the community.

“We are refurbishing all Active Nottingham gyms across the city, to make sure wherever people live, they have the opportunity and access to high-quality fitness equipment.”

On Monday 27 March, both Clifton Leisure Centre and Harvey Hadden Sports Village will reopen their doors to the gym for a VIP Open Day, where Master Trainers from Life Fitness will be on hand to help customers utilise the new equipment. Members will also be invited to bring along a friend for free for the day.

To tie in with the reopening, residents will be able to take advantage of a special joining offer of three-month Fitness+ membership for £70 (a saving of £40) when visiting either Clifton or Harvey Hadden Sports Village.

For more information on the refurbishment project, visit Active Nottingham’s website here.

Active Nottingham set to invest £1.5m in gym equipment

Gyms at Harvey Hadden Sports Village and Clifton Leisure Centre are in line to receive a share of £1.5m for new equipment over the next few months.

Active Nottingham, which is part of Nottingham City Council, is set to invest the money over five years across all of its six leisure centres – Harvey Hadden, Clifton, Ken Martin, Southglade, Victoria and Djanogly.

Harvey Hadden and Clifton will be the first in line to receive new equipment from Spring 2023.

The average lifespan for a cardio machine is five years and the costs to repair will outstrip the value of the machine, resulting in a higher repair bill.

This £1.5m cash injection will make sure each centre has new kit for gym-goers to use.

Active Nottingham has set money aside to support the income generated from customers, allowing the investment to be made without the need for borrowing or impacting on wider day-to-day council services.

With increasing membership numbers and by listening to members, replacing old equipment will improve customer satisfaction as well as mental and physical health and wellbeing.

It will also allow Active Nottingham to remain competitive in an ever-growing sport and leisure marketplace – especially as today’s gym-goer wants to see smart technology on fitness equipment to enhance the gym experience.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “I am pleased we are investing in our residents’ mental health and wellbeing by replacing the current gym equipment. This will play an important role in the promotion of getting more people active within our community.”

John Wileman, Head of Sport and Leisure for Active Nottingham, said: “This is great news for our members and local residents at each of the six Active Nottingham locations. We are always looking to improve and replacing our equipment means our gyms are not just great to use, but we are directly helping the city of Nottingham.”

The state-of-the-art fitness equipment will be purchased by Active Nottingham over the next five years, providing an enhanced gym experience to residents and members at Active Nottingham’s six leisure centres.

Active Nottingham Leisure Centre first in the country to be recognised for tackling inequalities

Active Nottingham’s Ken Martin Leisure Centre (part of Nottingham City Council) in Nottingham has become the first leisure centre in the country to achieve the Quest Tackling Inequalities in Leisure Standard, demonstrating its commitment to tackling inequalities.

The Tacking Inequalities in Leisure accolade was bestowed on the centre as part of its Sport England Quest assessment, which measures how well a facility is operating and how effective organisations are across a range of areas.

First established more than 20 years ago, the renowned Quest award has evolved over the years to keep pace with the ever-changing sport and leisure industry, now including aspects such as the Tackling Inequalities assessment and an Exercise on Referral Standard.  Still the sector’s best-known improvement programme, its rigorous assessments challenge even the very best leisure centres in the UK.

Councillor Pavlos Kotsonis, Nottingham City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, said: “I’m thrilled that our efforts and the ongoing work at Ken Martin Leisure Centre have been recognised with the Tackling Inequalities in Leisure Standard. This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team. As a service, Active Nottingham is committed to providing accessible leisure facilities and I hope this encourages more local residents with disabilities and those with long-term health conditions to be active.”

Ken Martin Leisure Centre was recognised for working hard to ensure all demographics of the local community are welcome and find the centre accessible, which includes partnering with trusted local organisations, such as housing associations, primary care networks, social prescribing teams and mental health services.

The Sport and Physical Activity team have also been working with the community to help remove any barriers to access through campaigns such as Get Out Get Active, This Girl Can and the Disability Sport Insight and Participation project, which invited people living with a disability to try the facility for free in exchange for honest feedback.

Kirsty Worthington, General Manager at Ken Martin Leisure Centre says: “As well as proactively researching the demographics of our area so we can anticipate some of our community’s needs, we take a more holistic and individualistic appreciation of their requirements by working with partners, such as My Sight Notts, Disability Direct and the Women’s Centre, and local projects, including community-based sports groups, to directly engage with people living in the local area.

“This includes attending local meetings and events, such as community fun days, inviting groups to attend the centre and help alleviate first-time visit anticipation, as well as offering virtual tours and subtitled centre walk-through videos on our website and social media, so people know what to expect in advance.

“The area around the centre has some of the highest levels of deprivation across the UK, experiencing a number of health challenges. Added to this, the area has a mixed population of ethnicities, including new and emerging communities, a large proportion of families and single-parent families, as well as a significant population of older people.  We need to offer programmes and activities that truly cater for everyone.”

Some of the activities that ticked the boxes for the Tackling Inequalities in Leisure Standard assessment team include Swim for Health, a 50+ morning and line dancing classes, which all attract a diverse attendance, as well as low-intensity mental health mindfulness classes, which enable customers to learn mindfulness meditation practices to help relax, reduce stress, slow down and live their life in the present.

Along with Active Nottingham’s other leisure centres, Ken Martin also boasts CredAbility accreditation; an independent quality mark run by disabled people, and the CredAbility Access Card, a national scheme that commits organisations to providing a quality service to people with a disability. The CredAbility Access +1 card scheme also allows holders to gain free access for essential companions or carers at Active Nottingham leisure centres.

Kirsty explains: “The CredAbility Access Card acts as evidence that someone needs support to use our services or is eligible for our offers.  Not only does it mean we discreetly know they are entitled to concessionary prices and may require individual help, they know we are a verified accessible venue with their best interests at heart.”

Sarah Maxwell, Head of External Accreditations at Right Directions, which manages Quest on behalf of Sport England, says: “We were truly impressed with the investment Ken Martin Leisure Centre has made around inclusivity for its local community.  For instance, the video on the Swim School is one of the most inclusive videos I have seen as an Assessor, with information being available in picture, sound and caption formats for members of the community, users and coaches.

“All the evidence, which includes investment in Disability Training Scenario Videos and Unconscious Bias Training to help prepare staff for their roles, demonstrates the centre and organisation are quality, not quantity, driven, with a focus on individual opportunities and thought, without taking a ‘blanket approach’ to their customers’ needs.”

Active Nottingham leisure centre awarded top marks on ‘Quest’ for excellence

Active Nottingham’s Ken Martin Leisure Centre has been awarded ‘Excellent’ for its facilities and services, recognising high quality within UK Sport and Leisure.

It joins Djanogly Community Leisure Centre at the top of the rankings for 2022 – another site run by Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council.

An industry standard developed by the UK Sports Council, Quest assessors look at a range of factors including operational management and approaches to engaging with customers through to community outcomes. Taking place over a two-day on-site assessment and a mystery shopper visit, the overall process ensures a thorough review takes place and provides assurances a quality service is being provided to residents.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “I’m thrilled Ken Martin Leisure Centre has been awarded ‘Excellent’ for its performance and management on the latest Quest Assessment. This is a testament to the incredible work and dedication of our front-line staff delivering best practice and the highest industry standard for the benefit of Nottingham residents using the centre.”

Ken Martin Leisure Centre General Manager, Kirsty Worthington, said: “Thank you to everyone at Ken Martin Leisure Centre and the wider Sport and Leisure teams for their assistance and support during the Quest preparation as well as the recent two-day assessment. It’s brilliant news for us all that we were rated as ‘Excellent’ as it highlights the hard work that is put into Ken Martin Leisure Centre. The hard work does not stop here, we will continue to assess, reflect and progress the site and the services we offer to Nottingham residents and customers. Great job everyone!”.

For more information about Quest, visit: https://www.questaward.org/ 

Active Nottingham operates six leisure centres across the city of Nottingham: Clifton Leisure Centre, Djanogly Community Leisure Centre, Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Southglade Leisure Centre, and Victoria Leisure Centre.

Visit www.activenottingham.com for more information or to find your nearest centre

Take a virtual tour of Active Nottingham without leaving your house!

A NEW virtual tour promoting the facilities of six leisure centres in Nottingham has been launched by Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council.

The online tool not only allows users to see inside each Active Nottingham leisure centre but also view spaces from 360-degree angles. During the tour, potential members can gain virtual access to the facilities and visit each building from the comfort of their mobile device or computer.

Active Nottingham is much more than just a ‘gym’ with indoor swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms and a range of exercise classes, there is something for everyone and the new virtual tour allows potential members to explore the layout and details prior to arrival.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said:

“I’m delighted Active Nottingham have launched their virtual tours, especially as they provide flexibility for potential members as well as those who may not be comfortable with having an in-person tour and want the freedom to view the leisure centres at their leisure.

“The tours also offer valuable information for service users wanting to understand access arrangements, where the changing rooms are, where specific rooms are for classes etc.

“Nottingham residents will benefit greatly from these tours and I hope they will inspire more people to get active.”

For more information and to view the new Active Nottingham Nottingham virtual tours, visit https://www.activenottingham.com/virtual-tour/

In-person tours are still available and can be booked by visiting www.activenottingham.com/enquire

Brown Gal Can’t Swim: City Council helps BBC presenter to get South Asian women swimming

Summaya Mughal (left) and Alice Dearing (right). Image: Charlie Firth

Nottingham-born BBC presenter Summaya Mughal has been learning to swim at Active Nottingham pools in a bid to encourage other South Asian women to take the plunge.

Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council, has supported her during her journey which she starts sharing on air this week. Her five-part series looks into learning to swim at the age of 27 and explores why many South Asian women are less likely to swim.

In revealing that she couldn’t swim, Summaya exposed the cultural barriers that she faced and how it has affected her both physically and mentally. As part of this journey, Summaya has given other members of the South Asian community the confidence to take their first steps into swimming.

As a result of her campaign, Summaya was honoured at the Nottingham Awards 2022 last week for her work in the Voluntary and Community Sector. Meanwhile, Active Nottingham, Nottingham Swim School and the council’s school swimming department have been honoured at the recent Swim England Teaching and Education Awards.

The series titled ‘Brown Gal Can’t Swim’ sees Summaya learn to swim in just eight weeks at Active Nottingham swimming pools, supported by Nottingham Swim School swimming teacher Victoria Charles. Olympians Rebecca Adlington and Alice Dearing also provide support and guidance and set Summaya additional challenges including a 500m open water swim – will she do it? You’ll have to listen to the podcast to find out.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “We’re thrilled to be a part of this project with Summaya and the BBC to help raise awareness and showcase the importance of learning to swim within South Asian communities. This campaign will go a long way to help break down barriers that people face when it comes to swimwear, changing rooms, and going swimming itself and help get more communities involved in swimming.

“Active Nottingham and Nottingham Swim School are proud to have helped Summaya learn to swim over the past eight weeks and it was great to see her face the 500m open water challenge at Spring Lakes.

“Summaya has also worked with the black swimming association to challenge the lack of representation of black and Asian people in both recreational and elite swimming – she also engaged with Olympic swimmers Becky Adlington and Alice Dearing in her campaign, who both set her challenges for Summaya to complete.

Her work with diverse communities is second to none, both engaging as well as empowering!”

The Brown Gal Can’t Swim podcast is available on BBC Sounds: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/series/p0ctzgft It will also be broadcast as a series on BBC East Midlands Today from Tuesday 11 October 2022.

Importance of learning to swim

Reasons why you should learn to swim

• Swimming provides many health benefits by keeping your heart and lungs healthy
• Improves your strength and flexibility
• Increases stamina
• Improves balance and posture
• Increases stamina
• Swimming provides challenges and rewards accomplishments – which helps children to become self-confident and believe in their abilities
• Lastly, your child will have plenty of opportunities to make friends and grow in confidence.
• It’s the only sport that can save a life
• Swimming teaches us about water safety, not only in the water but around it too
• If taught early on in life it will help with physical development skills such as muscle tone and hand-eye coordination

According to Swim England:

• Swimming provides challenges and rewards accomplishments, which helps children (and adults) to become self-confident and believe in their abilities
• You can have the opportunity to make friends and grow in confidence

Learning to swim is a skill for life and is rarely forgotten, swimming doesn’t care about age either making it an accessible sport for all.

Brown Gal Can’t Swim: Summaya Mughal aims to get South Asian women swimming

Left to Right: Summaya Mughal and Alice Dearing. Image: Charlie Firth

Nottingham-born and raised Summaya Mughal, a BBC presenter and podcaster for BBC Radio Sounds and Radio Leicester is presenting a five-part series which explores why many South Asian women are less likely to swim.

The series, Brown Gal Can’t Swim (BGCS), will see Summaya take on swimming challenges set by Olympians Rebecca Adlington and Alice Dearing. She said: “I’ve spent over 20 years embarrassed about not having a skill it feels like kids have”.

Breaking down barriers and misconceptions

Statistics from Swim England show people from black and Asian backgrounds are less likely to swim than those from white communities, with 49% of black and Asian communities unable to swim 25m unaided.

Summaya aims to break down misconceptions about swimming and encourage members of the South Asian community to get behind her campaign and learn to swim.

About the journey itself, Summaya says: “It has tested me physically and emotionally but I’m hoping it makes a difference and encourages others to learn to swim too. After all, it could save your life.”

As part of the BGCS project Summaya is challenged to swim 50m in a swimming pool by Rebecca Adlington and 500m in open water by Alice Dearing in just eight weeks – will she do it? Keep listening to the BGCS podcast daily from Monday 10 October 2022.

Listen to Episode One of Summaya’s podcast here.

Importance of learning to swim

Did you know swimming is the only sport which could save your life, according to Swim England.

Swimming is a tremendous amount of fun for all people of all ages and children, especially, who enjoy getting into the water. But it is important to swim safely. Check out our blog for the importance of learning to swim, you can read it here.

Good luck with the campaign Summaya, Active Nottingham and Nottingham Swim School is proud to work with you on this project and we all look forward to seeing more about it in the next few days!

Active Nottingham named finalists at the Swim England Teaching and Education Awards 2022

Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council, is delighted to have been named by Swim England as 2022 Awards Finalists after entering the awards for the first time.

They have been shortlisted in two categories:

• Swim School of the Year – Nottingham Swim School
• Swimming Teacher of the Year – Deborah Williams, Nottingham Swim School.

Deborah Williams was awarded ‘Runner Up’ for Swimming Teacher of the Year after being nominated by Nottingham Swim School parents and students from Djanogly Community Leisure Centre and Southglade Leisure Centre.

Deborah Williams

Additionally, Nottingham City Council’s School Swimming department came away with School Swimming Provider of the Year for the second year in a row.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “I’m delighted Active Nottingham has been successful in their efforts to become finalists at the Swim England Teaching and Education Awards 2022 in two categories. This is an incredible achievement to all the team for their incredibly hard yet rewarding work.

“Well done to Deborah Williams for achieving ‘Runner Up’ in the Swimming Teacher of the Year category. Deborah should be very proud of her achievement, as should all who were nominated.

“Congratulations also to our Nottingham City Council colleagues for winning School Swimming Provider of the Year for a second year in a row, with special thanks to School Swimming Manager, Claire Moores – well deserved.”

Nottingham Swim School Manager, Claire Sullivan, said “We’re pleased Nottingham Swim School was nominated for Swim School of the Year, alongside many of our Nottingham Swim School teachers in the Swim Teacher of the Year category.

“As a City Council delivering both school swimming (during the daytime) and Nottingham Swim School (Monday-Friday 4-6.30 pm and weekends) we are committed to teaching as many children and young people in our City to swim and to learn this vital life skill.”

Nottingham City Council School Swimming Manager, Claire Moores, said “Thank you to the Sport and Leisure teams at Active Nottingham for providing us such a fabulous learning environment for school pupils to learn new and essential life skills. How we pull together from collaboration to delivery is a real team effort, and the Swim Teachers should be very proud of the recognition of all their hard work.”

The Swim England Teaching and Education Awards 2022 took place in Solihull on Thursday 28 September and gave Swim England the chance to honour the very best of the swimming workforce within the UK. It’s a chance to highlight the innovations and achievements of the best educators, swimming teachers, tutors and swim schools within the sport and recognise their success.

For a full list of winners and finalists please visit: https://www.swimming.org/swimengland/swim-england-news/

For more information on Nottingham Swim School visit www.activenottingham.com/swim-school

Nottingham Swim School operates swimming lessons at six Active Nottingham leisure centres across the city of Nottingham: Clifton Leisure Centre, Djanogly Community Leisure Centre, Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Southglade Leisure Centre and Victoria Leisure Centre

Is there a better time of day to work out?

Are you a morning or evening person? Some people find it easier to exercise in the morning as their energy levels are at their highest, others prefer to wait until the evening as it fits better with their daily life.The time of day we choose to workout will depend on many things – ultimately it needs to fit in with everything in our lives. It needs to fit around work, studies, family and other commitments. We also need to choose times best suited to our bodies and our natural energy levels. The best time to exercise is down to us, working out whenever we can and being consistent.There are some benefits to exercising at certain times of the day, take a look below.

Morning workouts:

• Exercising first thing in the morning and on an empty stomach has been shown to burn more fat than after eating a meal. Your body tends to use up fat stores for fuel rather than using energy from the meal you just ate.
• Mood boosters – starting your day with endorphins – those “feel-good, happy hormones” can have a sustained effect on your mood for the remainder of the day.
• Being more productive – exercising in the morning can help to improve energy and concentration levels – helping you to be more alert and ultimately better and quicker at doing tasks.
• Improve your body clock over time, making you more energetic in the mornings and sleepier at night – helping you to fall asleep quickly and enjoy a better quality of sleep.

Important: if exercising in the morning don’t forget to sufficiently warm up. Your muscles and joints tend to be “colder” when you have just woken up and are more prone to injury.

Afternoon/evening workouts:

• Studies have shown most people tend to perform physically better later in the day – power, muscle strength and flexibility are normally better in the evening than in the morning.
• Your body will be warmer as your core temperature increases as the day progresses, meaning you will feel more flexible and be able to move easier than earlier in the day.
• Afternoon or evening exercise, especially at the end of a busy day may help you to relieve stress. Endorphins produced during exercise can also help you wind down before bed, especially as exercising in the evenings could replace other habits such as watching television, drinking alcohol or excessive snacking.
• Some research has suggested that testosterone production may also be higher in the evening – this hormone is important for building muscle in men and women.

Regardless of the time of day we exercise, it is still very important to ensure we warm up sufficiently.

Try to find a time to work out that suits your lifestyle – taking all aspects into consideration – but most importantly, a time that you will consistently be able to stick with in the long run.

These girls certainly can: Nottingham celebrates women’s successes in sport

Pictured: Mary Earps (England vs Austria). Image credit: Franck Fife/AFP via Getty Images

Nottingham City Council has shown its support for the England Lionesses with the country’s largest flag on the Council House, and sends them congratulations on their historic win against Germany yesterday.

The England team’s incredible 2-1 victory against the eight-time European Champions at a sold-out Wembley is a huge achievement – and sets an example which will inspire girls and women today and for future generations.

Along with Notts-born goalie Mary Earps who played such a vital role throughout the Lionesses’ European Championship campaign including last night’s final, Nottingham/Nottinghamshire has a score of women taking part in the 2022 Commonwealth Games representing Team England, including Olympic silver medallist, Emily Campbell, and we wish them every success during the games.

Women’s sport is very much in the public eye at the minute and Nottingham has been looking to capture that energy. Working alongside a variety of partners such as Sport England, Nottingham Forest Community Trust and British Cycling, the council provides a comprehensive offer for women to take part in physical activity, in a way that suits them.

Working on projects such as This Girl Can since 2015, Active Nottingham, part of the City Council, has inspired thousands of women in Nottingham to take part in sports and physical activity. Whether it’s swimming at local leisure centres or women’s cricket sessions in partnership with The Renewal Trust and Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, these sessions open up opportunities for girls and women – and could produce the next Euros finalist or Commonwealth Games contender.

Active Nottingham recently brought home two wins at the UK Active Awards and are finalists in the upcoming Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) awards for the recent This Girl Can Nottingham project (2019-2022). The project will look to return at the end of 2022, celebrating women being active in a variety of different ways.

Nottingham City Council Leader, Cllr David Mellen, said: “What an incredible achievement for the Lionesses yesterday – not only for the historic win, but also the huge legacy this will leave for the future of women’s and girls’ sport. We’re hugely proud of them, as well as the local women who are competing on the world stage at the Commonwealth Games. We will continue to promote sporting opportunities for girls and women in Nottingham to help them to reach their potential.”

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “It’s great to see the growth of women’s sport at a national level and what Nottingham is doing to support women at a more local level. To see the Lionesses win the European Championships at a sold-out Wembley would have been unthinkable five years ago and having eight Nottingham women represent England at the Commonwealth Games is a testament to the city’s sporting prowess.

“It’s great to see the effort Active Nottingham is making across the city to ensure that the energy is transferred from the screen to local provision. I’m delighted with the work taking place, and the national awards they have won and are currently finalists in. I look forward to supporting the ongoing effort made to increase the number of women taking part in physical activity.”

Notes to editors

To find out more about This Girl Can Nottingham: visit: https://www.nottsgirlscan.co.uk/

To find out more about getting into Women’s football, visit: https://www.nottinghamshirefa.com/ways-to-play/female

APSE is dedicated to promoting excellence in the delivery of frontline services to local communities around the UK). For more information on the APSE Awards, visit: https://apse.org.uk/index.cfm/apse/news/articles/2022/announcing-the-finalists-of-the-apse-service-awards-2022/

Nottingham/Nottinghamshire-born athletes:

1. Emily Campbell – Weightlifting: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/emily-campbell
2. Freya Colbert – Swimming: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/freya-colbert
3. Sabbie Heesh – Hockey: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/sabbie-heesh
4. Anna Purchase – Track and Field (Hammer): https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/anna-purchase
5. Molly Renshaw – Swimming: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/molly-renshaw
6. Sophie Hahn – Athletics: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/sophie-hahn
7. Georgia Holt – Cycling: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/georgia-holt
8. Samantha Harrison: Athletics: https://teamengland.org/team-england-athletes/samantha-harrison
9. Mary Earps – England football goalkeeper: https://www.englandfootball.com/womens-senior-team/squad/mary-earps

Active Nottingham operates six leisure centres across the city of Nottingham: Clifton Leisure Centre, Djanogly Community Leisure Centre, Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Southglade Leisure Centre and Victoria Leisure Centre.

Visit www.activenottingham.com for more information or to find your nearest centre

Active Nottingham leisure centre awarded top marks on ‘Quest’ for excellence

Active Nottingham’s Djanogly Community Leisure Centre (DCLC), part of Nottingham City Council, has been awarded ‘Excellent’ for its facilities and services, recognising high quality within UK Sport and Leisure.

An industry standard developed by the UK Sports Council, Quest assessors look at a range of factors including operational management and approaches to engaging with customers through to community outcomes. Taking place over a two-day on-site assessment and a mystery shopper visit the overall process ensures a thorough review takes place and provides assurances we’re providing a quality service to residents.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis, said: “I’m really proud of Djanogly Community Leisure Centre being awarded ‘Excellent’ in terms of its performance and management on its latest Quest Assessment. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our front line staff delivering best practice and highest industry standard for the benefit of Nottingham residents using the centre.”

Djanogly Community Leisure Centre General Manager, Tom Nelson, said: “Thank you to all the team at DCLC and the wider Sport and Leisure service for their help and support during the Quest preparation and the two-day assessment. It’s great we were awarded ‘Excellent’, but it doesn’t stop here, we will continue to review, reflect and continually improve the site and the service we offer to residents and customers. Well done everyone and thanks again!”.

For more information about Quest and the award, visit: https://www.questaward.org/ 

Working out in the heat

It might be hot out but we also want you to stay active but safely! So, here are some tips for keeping your cool when working out!

• Stay hydrated: Hydration is always important (see our tips for staying hydrated) but during the heat of the summer it’s even more so.

• Split up workouts: If the summer heat is too challenging for you, break the day up into multiple smaller workouts. This allows your body to rest, refuel and regain some precious energy without impacting on your fitness goals.

• Dress appropriately: Don’t be tempted to choose fashion over function, pick clothing that is lightweight, loose-fitting and lighter coloured clothes to help keep your core body temperature lower.

• Timing: Avoid the midday heat (or the hottest part of the day – as this could actually be 5 – 7 pm in some locations) when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Train early morning or in the evening if it’s cooler. If you opt to train outside, do it responsibly and don’t put yourself at risk – find some shade.

• Cover up: Make sure you’re fully protected when going outdoors, by putting on the factor 50! (A waterproof one is even better if you get really sweaty). If you burn yourself and attempt to work out, your body will struggle to cool itself, which increases the risk of skin cancer.

• Listen to your body: It will always tell you when it needs a rest or has had enough. During hotter weather, there are chances you won’t be able to exercise at the intensity you normally would, but that’s okay. The best thing to do if you’re exercising outdoors in the heat is to reduce your exercise intensity and take frequent breaks.

• If you feel/sick – stop immediately: Sit down, rest and drink plenty of fluids (if you’re outside, get to somewhere shaded). Try and get a juicy snack, like fruit. Don’t be tempted to finish your workout. Your body and health are far more important.

Spot the symptoms of heat exhaustion:

To help protect yourself and others is to spot the symptoms of heat stroke, which include:-

1. A headache
2. Dizziness or confusion
3. Excessive sweating
4. Very thirsty
5. High temperature
6. Fast breathing or pulse
7. Loss of appetite and feeling sick
8. Cramps

If you notice that someone has signs of heat stroke/exhaustion you should:

• Help them to lie down in a cool place – such as a room with air conditioning or in the shade
• Coll them down – such as a cool flannel, cold packs around the neck and armpits, or a cool, wet sheet
• Get them to drink plenty of water
• Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol – it will not help the raised temperature and may be harmful
• Stay with the person until they’re feeling better. Most people should start to recover within 30 minutes

Active Nottingham named as Triple Finalists at the 2022 ukactive Awards

Active Nottingham, part of Nottingham City Council, are delighted to have been named by ukactive as 2022 Award Finalists after entering the awards for the first time.

They have been shortlisted in three categories – Regional Club of the Year (Harvey Hadden Sports Village), Activation Award (recognising organisations who run events to inspire and encourage people to be more active) and Physical Activity Hero Award (Charmaine Daley with This Girl Can Nottingham).

Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, Cllr Eunice Campbell-Clark, said: “I’m delighted to announce Active Nottingham has been successful in their efforts to become finalists at the ukactive Awards, in not one but three categories. This is an amazing achievement to all the team for the incredibly hard work they do, not just at our leisure centres, but within the community. I wish them the best of luck at the finals in June.”

Charmaine Daley will go head to head with other finalists in a public vote for the Physical Activity Hero Award. Charmaine has been involved in this Girl Can Nottingham since 2015 and more recently involved as the community motivator role, empowering and inspiring thousands of women to enjoy moving more and falling in love with their bodies through exercise.

Charmaine has a passion for helping those in need by dedicating her time to raising money for good causes through the power of Zumba; including the delivery of ‘Socially Distanced Street Zumba’ with This Girl Can Nottingham at the height of lockdown in Bulwell.

Voting opens on Monday 9 May and closes on 27 May, with the winner announced at the awards ceremony in Birmingham on 30 June 2022.

ukactive’s annual awards are the most prestigious within the physical activity sector; they recognise facilities, suppliers, operators, educational institutes, health practitioners and large corporations that have demonstrated exceptional standards in driving forward the physical activity agenda.

NOTES FOR EDITORS

For a full list of finalists within each category please visit: https://www.ukactive.com/news/finalists-revealed-for-ukactive-awards-2022/

Physical Activity Hero Award public voting link goes live on Monday 9 May until Friday 27 May 2022: https://www.ukactive.com/ukactive-awards-2022-stage-2-public-vote/

Active Nottingham operates six leisure centres across the city of Nottingham: Clifton Leisure Centre, Djanogly Community Leisure Centre, Harvey Hadden Sports Village, Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Southglade Leisure Centre and Victoria Leisure Centre.

Visit www.activenottingham.com for more information or to find your nearest centre

This Girl Can – Samiah’s Story

Introducing – Samiah Haleem

Samiah Haleem is an outstanding ambassador of ‘This Girl Can’ and through the campaign, she has become a pioneering leader in increasing growth and participation in Women & Girls Cricket in The Renewal Trust area in Nottingham.

With the support of This Girl Can Nottingham and The Renewal Trust, Samiah organised a Women’s Cricket softball festival in St Ann’s and was able to attract a total of 85 attendees.

Through weeks of organising and recruiting as many women as she could, Samiah’s hard work paid off. She is now exploring how we can keep these women active.

Background

I am a British Afro-Asian (Indian-Kenyan-Pakistani with a combination of Sikh Punjabi and Turkish ancestry!) Although multi-heritage, now of Islamic faith. I was prematurely born as my mother went for a routine check whilst my father went off to play his cricket match!

My first cricket experience: My father Abdul Haleem Chaudhri and his brother Salahudin Chaudhri strived and formed a cricket club for Asian men. They were key founders/presidents of the Asian Cricket Club in the London borough of Waltham Forest in the early 1970s. Their brother Shakil Chaudhri and cousin Khalid Chaudhri later progressed to captain the team for many years playing in Essex cup leagues and internationally.

Passion for cricket

I used to watch hours and days of test cricket matches with my dad when I was young. With the favourite time being World Cup cricket. I understood patterns and band and pretty much became the scoring pundit much to everyone’s annoyance when it was going against us.

A shift in focus at college and university took me away from physical sports with very little free time. The thrill and love for watching T20 developed again and was enjoyed immensely through multiple pregnancies.

Dream big/city programmer activator project

I had heard Ian Dipaola the participation and growth officer on RadioDawn talk about walking cricket, disability cricket and how inclusive cricket is in Nottinghamshire County.

I had then seen an Allstars activator with the children at Trentbridge from the audience in May 2019. I was inspired by seeing an active sporty hijabi participating in cricket in a modest-looking way. As the law of attraction would have it I met Asma Ajaz-Ali two months later face to face via the Muslim community Organisation callout for volunteers.

Ironically at a time when I was experiencing aversion around my hidden disabilities/altered abilities (and not able to make chapattis due to my Asthma), I was lucky to meet all three of my local City Programmes Executives and to get training from Shilly Pancholi and Hina Mistry, who were all really accepting, and encouraging my involvement in the Allstars programme.

They gave me the validation I didn’t even realise I sought at the time. I was invited to a crikitty party at Edgbaston cricket ground, it was fun and liberating being part of the Desi women programme.

I love to skill-share and have run creative education and learning workshops for years. When I got bored of my delivery (pun intended) I became a sublime science presenter and did science parties for children. I was known as ‘Artist Aunty’. They now call me’ cricketwaliaunty’.

I naturally morphed and dived into the deep end and co-led the Allstar sessions in Nov 2019. They were split into 4 weeks of female delivery and 4 weeks of male delivery. Lots of women told me they felt reassured leaving their daughters at a female-led session. My input felt needed. My children helped with setting up and clearing the sessions and picking up the balls for me. Team effort!

I went on to start the Youth Mental Health First Aid Course and attained an ECB level 1 foundation course in coaching in January 2020. I joined a women’s softball session for my own re-development and led a session when the coach could not make it.

Then we were hit with the lockdown. I managed to join the Chai and chat monthly zoom sessions and felt connected. I was also given access to an empowerment course and Microsoft workshops. I requested to shadow the softball sessions at my children’s local cricket club Cavaliers & Carrington where the respected coaches were really welcoming.

As a result of my presence, parents felt confident leaving their girls at the sessions. I am looking forward to having more cricketing experiences with my daughters as well as my son’s IA.

I have become a self-appointed calling card to the programme and have shared the benefits with other ladies as I believe one should “Love for others what you love for yourself” sunnah of prophet Muhammad saw pbuh.

I have invited multi-faith groups from my community to have access to the Allstars and Dynamos programme. I am now a recognised community champion in Nottingham City for the Dream Big Desi Women Programme.

We’ve recently done allstars and Dynamos training for the new cohort, and supported a Dynamos session at a school with special guests – Trent Rockets players Katherine Brunt and Abbie Freeborn. The programme has allowed this Desi woman to Dream Big and attend a soft ball tournament at Lord’s! It was exhilarating! I have developed new contacts and shared big moments with the network. It’s been amazing!

In the stars

My connection with cricket is a connection with my memory of my father, he is right there with me every time I do the Abdul Haleem Chaudhri-esque hypnotic mantra ‘Look at the ball. Look at the ball. Keep your eyes on the ball. Look at the ball…’

Love you Dad – hope to play cricket with you when we meet in heavenIA🤲🏼🙏🏼🏏

This Girl Can returns to Nottingham

This Girl Can believes that there’s no right way to get active.

If it gets your heart rate up, it counts, and we want more women to find what’s right for them.

Since This Girl Can launched, nearly 3 million women have been inspired to get involved in physical activity, but it isn’t stopping there. With a new drive in Nottingham comes a fresh approach and the ambition to reach all areas of Nottingham.

We welcome Charm, our new Community Motivator for This Girl Can Nottingham.

Charm’s role is getting Nottingham active, and she’s been proving how good she is at it through the Covid-19 lockdown, getting whole neighbourhoods and even the Police moving their bodies (at a safe social distance).

To connect with Charm and other Nottingham women on their activity journey, find inspiration to be active, or share your journey (you can post as much or as little as you want) visit the ‘This Girl Can Nottingham’ Facebook group.

Women come in all shapes and sizes with all abilities and from all backgrounds. Some of us are expert sportswomen, some of us really aren’t. It doesn’t matter. We’re just happy that you’re getting active. If you’re still not sure that you can, we’re here to help you to figure out the way of getting active that’s right for you.

Many women are put off taking part in physical activity due to a fear of judgement, or because they have other priorities, often putting others first.

This Girl Can is about sharing real stories of women getting active or playing sport in the way that’s right for them, in all its sweaty, red-faced, jiggly glory.

We never judge, and we don’t care what other people think.

Go on, join our This Girl Can Nottingham Facebook Group!

GOGA success at Notts Getting Active Together Awards

Get Out Get Active (GOGA) Nottingham celebrated a successful night at the Notts Getting Active Together Awards!

On Thursday 5 March 2020, Active Notts hosted their second Notts Getting Active Together Awards at Lakeside Arts.

It was a fantastic evening that saw both the Get Out Get Active Nottingham project and project participants and partners win a host of awards celebrating their active journey!

Two Swim for Health participants, Glyn Plummer and Jayne Morton, stole the show winning the first two awards. Glyn was the winner of the ‘Change 4 Life’ category, awarded to an individual who has dramatically increased their activity levels over the last twelve months.

Glyn has cerebral palsy and minor Autism and uses a wheelchair. Over the last few years, Glyn has gone from doing no exercise to becoming a regular at the GOGA Swim for Health sessions, attending several times a week and building meaningful relationships with the fantastic Poolside Helpers.

Next up was the This Girl Can award, awarded to a female who has dramatically increased their activity levels over the last twelve months, won by second the Swim for Health participant of the night, Jayne Morton.

Jayne had a stroke in April 2018 which caused her to spend three months in hospital. In April 2019, Jayne and her husband Clive started swimming at the Swim for Health sessions at Southglade Leisure Centre. At these sessions Jayne was also supported by receptionist Annmarie and Swim for Health Poolside Helper Jenna.

Jayne’s progress has been fantastic!

She has progressed from needing to be completely supported in the water to beginning to swim independently. Jayne has also started to walk a little again thanks to her hard work in the pool. Jayne also undertook a sponsored swim to raise money and awareness for the Stroke Association, achieving an amazing 31 lengths.

Other winners of the night included local partner Flo Skatepark for the Active Place award and Evolve Boxing with the Live Team, an initiative developed through the GOGA project, for the Project/Initiative/Innovation of the Year award.

Finally, the GOGA project was recognised as the winner of the Inclusive Project of the Year award: acknowledging three years of amazing participants and fantastic partners across the community promoting fun and inclusive activity for all.

If you would like to be more active through fun, inclusive activity, follow ‘Get Out Get Active Nottingham’ on Facebook to find out about all the latest opportunities and ideas to remain active at home.

You can also read more about both Jayne and Glyn’s stories.

The sponsored swim that had us all in tears

Jayne, a regular at Southglade Leisure Centre, recently completed a thirty-length swim in aid of the Stroke Association – a feat that few healthy individuals could complete. Yet, Jayne recently suffered a life-changing stroke, leaving her with limited mobility and a long road to recovery. Enter the Swim for Health sessions, where Jenna (one of our swimming instructors) worked closely with Jayne to help in her rehabilitation – working to regain her strength as well as independence.

I arrived at Southglade on November 11^th 2019 to interview Jayne. The atmosphere in the Leisure Centre was beautiful – friends and family had gathered together in support. They cheered and clapped as Jayne tackled length after length, and by the final lap, there were definitely a few watery eyes.

After the swim there were posters and banners carefully hung on the walls, and there were biscuits and coffee cups placed upon tables. People were smiling and laughing – excitedly chattering about how well Jayne had done. You could almost smell the sheer adoration and pride in the air. Sally, one of Jayne’s physiotherapists, smiled as she told me, “Swimming has been a game-changer for Jayne. After her stroke she initially found walking very difficult. She even found sitting up very difficult – she was having to be hoisted – so what she’s achieved is incredible. She lacks confidence in walking on dry land, but in the water, she says she feels free. Swimming has had huge benefits for her confidence, generally. And she’s able to get fit and exercise in water in a way that she can’t on land.”

You could tell that Jayne’s swimming instructor, Jenna, was extremely fond of her too. They would poke fun at each other and make jokes in a way that reminded me of a mother-daughter relationship. When I spoke to Jenna, she couldn’t sing Jayne’s praises enough:

“When we first met her, she couldn’t hold herself in the water – she needed three people to support her body and to keep her steady so that her face wasn’t going under. But she’s made an amazing improvement – she is fantastic. She’s done thirty-one lengths today! She did about three in her first session. It’s great. It’s great to see people grow and change and get help in recovering. Jayne’s part of the family now.”

Jenna then went on to say the same as Sally – that swimming has been paramount for Jayne and that it makes her feel free. She started laughing and also told me that Jayne enjoys a natter in the sauna with fellow Southglade-goers after her sessions.

Jayne’s husband Clive was around for moral support, too. You could clearly see his adoration for her and it was clear that Jayne’s rehabilitation journey had been a team effort between her, Clive and the lovely staff at Southglade.

When interviewing Jayne herself, it was heart-warming to see her talk about the centre with such joy. Read her interview below:

How long have you been coming to Southglade Leisure Centre?

About 8 months!

How has going to the Swim for Health sessions helped with your stroke rehabilitation journey?

It’s helped me to exercise and it’s helped my muscles, mobility and confidence. It’s been good!

And how have the staff been? How have they helped you?

Gooood! There are really nice staff.

What’s the best thing about them?

Jenna! She’s funny. I’m always laughing.

When you first started swimming, were you nervous?

Yes. There were people I didn’t know!

What’s the best bit about Southglade?

Swimming! No… the sauna!

What would you say to anyone else who has had a major health problem? What would be your encouraging words?

Swimming! Try it! Have a goal and do it! It helps – my pain’s gone and my heavy body is gone. It makes me feel fabulous and free.

What made you do the sponsored swim today?

I wanted to help people raise money to help the people who helped me.

When you saw everyone here today, how did you feel?

Fabulous! Surprised!

Now that you’ve finished the swim, how do you feel?

Good… amazing! It was hard work though! I did thirty-one lengths and the maximum amount I’ve done before is sixteen.

Community activator with big ambitions to make exercise more inclusive

A trial partnership is helping up-skill Nottingham City Council employees to make exercise in Nottingham City more inclusive.

Community Activators have been working across the city for the past sixteen months, signposting people with a disability or long term illness into activities in the community or at one of the city’s eight leisure centres. One of these people, Kelly Evans, has embarked on a newly launched Level 3 Qualification delivered by HFE, the UK’s leading provider of personal training courses and fitness qualifications.

The Level 3 Award in Programming and Supervising Exercise with Disabled Clients, or simply Level 3 Exercise for Disabled Clients, is nationally recognised and awarded by one of the industry’s oldest awarding bodies, YMCA Awards. This means there’s a wealth of opportunity for Kelly to use this course up and down the country .

As one of the very few providers in the country who deliver this course, HFE are well placed to support Nottingham City Council in this new venture to up-skill their staff and serve a demographic that is currently greatly under-represented. Reports suggest that 1 in 5 people in the UK has a disability, which equates to nearly 11 million people. Unfortunately, only 18% of disabled adults undertake physical activity lasting longer than 30 minutes a week and this is compared to 38% of non-disabled adults.

Disability sport is highly important to Nottingham. Developing disability sport is a significant priority in the city’s Sport and Physical Activity Strategy (2015-2019); outlined in this is the aspiration to become ‘the fastest growing city for disability sports (physical activity) participation’.

To engage more people living with a disability or long term health condition, Nottingham City Council have taken bold steps in improving accessibility to leisure centres and enhancing the existing swim, gym and fitness offers to be more inclusive. To add to this, leisure centre staff have also taken part in some entry level disability confidence training to enable them to better advise customers who might require additional support.

Clearly, even more can and should be done to encourage disabled people to exercise and that’s why HFE have partnered with Nottingham City Council’s Active Nottingham to help up-skill staff and provide even more inclusive opportunities across their eight leisure centres.

Speaking about the potential of this partnership, Colin Eley said: ‘Working with HFE means we’re able to equip our staff with a more comprehensive knowledge-base to better support people accessing our service. We aim to empower citizens living with a disability or long term condition to feel confident when accessing our services while forming sustainable physical activity habits.”

Kelly, whose Community Activator role covers the Bulwell, Bulwell Forest, Bestwood and Basford wards, is the first Active Nottingham member of staff to take part in the new initiative, and she outlined how excited she was to start a new fitness journey:

“Having always been involved in fitness and sport I am very aware of the mental and physical benefits that exercise can have on people, regardless of where they currently are in their fitness journey.

“I am currently working with individuals who want to become more physically active but who find their long term conditions or disabilities a barrier. For them this means sessions that are perceived as a ‘mainstream’ exercise for all are not always suitable for their needs.

“During this course I am looking forward to learning new skills and broadening my knowledge base so I can better support individuals who have a broader variety of needs with exercise . I am hoping to be able to share this experience and outcomes from the course with other members of my team, so we can adapt and provide a more suitable/focused service for individuals with long term conditions or disabilities in the future.”

The council has just launched a new campaign – It’s For Me – to provide information about the accessibility, suitability and affordability of leisure provision in the city, reassuring citizens that they will be adequately provided for when they visit the council’s leisure facilities and take part in activities.