Free access to leisure facilities for community champions

Everyone Active, which runs Mid Suffolk Leisure Centre and Stradbroke Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre in partnership with Mid Suffolk District Council, wants to support projects which are tackling local issues and changing lives.

Its new Community Champions scheme launches on Thursday, with the aim of building stronger communities and recognising the dedication of those who make a real difference.

People involved in mentoring, promoting health and wellbeing, supporting inclusivity or leading environmental or cultural projects are being encouraged to apply. It can be a charitable initiative or a project that is small or targeted.

Successful applicants will secure valuable use of facilities within their local leisure centres, to help them carry out these projects. Everyone Active will raise awareness of this work to strengthen connections, encourage civic engagement and foster a culture of giving back.

Those selected for the Community Champions scheme are also in with a chance of being shortlisted for the Champions Awards in autumn of this year.

Paul Robson, Everyone Active’s contract manager, said:

“We are hugely excited to launch the Community Champions scheme, which we hope will make a real difference in Mid Suffolk.

“We want to highlight the work of everyday heroes who are changing people’s lives and inspiring others to make a positive impact in their communities. We encourage local people, community projects and charitable initiatives to get their applications in so we can support the fantastic work that you do.”

Cllr Teresa Davis, cabinet member for thriving communities at Mid Suffolk District Council, said:

“We know what a valuable contribution volunteers and charities make to our local communities and we are delighted to support any scheme that recognises and rewards those efforts.  By providing free access to our leisure facilities, we hope their projects and initiatives will be able to help even more people in future.”

Meanwhile, Everyone Active is also poised to launch its all-new 'Colleague Champions' scheme, which will recognise and reward Everyone Active employees who consistently go above and beyond in their roles. 

It will celebrate the provision of exceptional customer service, innovative ideas, teamwork, leadership and dedication to Everyone Active’s values. 

Applications for both Community Champions and Colleague Champions open on May 1 and close on June 2, 2025.  They should be submitted via the Champions website at www.ea-champions.com.