Real People. Real Impact.
Behind every session, every programme and every venue are real people with real stories.
From young people finding their confidences, to families discovering a place to connect, to adults staying active and supported later in life. These experiences show what impact sport can have on your every day life.
These case studies share the real experiences behind that impact.
Climbing Together at F51
F51’s climbing community is built on inclusion – a space where everyone, regardless of experience or background, is welcomed and supported.
From beginners to seasoned climbers, and through dedicated sessions like Women’s Climb and LGBTQIA+ Climb, many people are trying the sport for the first time in a safe and encouraging environment.
“Everyone is different and everyone’s welcome.”
Beyond fitness, climbers often describe a deeper impact — improved wellbeing, growing confidence, and strong social connections built through shared challenge and support.
“It’s great for the mind, body and spirit.”
Active 50: More Than Just Exercise
Active 50 is about staying active, but for many people it’s just as much about the social side – the chats, the laughs, and the friendships that build week after week.
For some, those connections end up meaning even more than expected.
“Lynne and I met here, a relationship grew, and last year we got married. I can’t imagine life without what Active 50 has done for me.”
It’s a reminder that sometimes a simple weekly session can turn into something that genuinely changes your life.
Supporting Neurodiverse and Home Educated Young People
F51 also dedicates time each week to the home education community, creating a calmer environment for children who may struggle in busy public settings.
These sessions are especially important for neurodiverse young people who benefit from a more structured, supportive space.
Parents describe it as a rare opportunity for their children to feel comfortable, make friends, and enjoy sport without pressure.
“It’s so valuable having a safe space where my child can come, meet friends, and just be themselves.”
Active 50: Staying Active, Staying Connected
Active 50 supports older adults to stay active, healthy, and socially connected through accessible sessions including yoga, Pilates, circuits, and strength training.
The focus is as much on community as it is on fitness, helping participants feel stronger physically while also improving mood and confidence.
“If I could describe it in one word, it would be inclusive. Nobody’s left out.”
Friendship and encouragement are central to every class, with participants motivating each other and celebrating progress together.
“We’re all in it together and we definitely have fun while doing something good for ourselves.”
F51: A Place Where Young People Belong
At F51, sport is about more than skateboarding or climbing – it’s about belonging. Through free holiday camps, community skate sessions, and the Shred Club programme, thousands of local young people have accessed opportunities they might otherwise miss.
For many, F51 has become a second home where confidence grows week by week and new skills come naturally through play, practice, and community.
“I’ve learned loads of new skating tricks and I’ve improved my confidence on my board each week.”
Dedicated home education sessions also provide a calmer, more accessible space where neurodiverse young people can feel comfortable, build friendships, and take part at their own pace.
Holiday Camps: Meeting new people & staying active in the holidays
Across F51, Three Hills, and partner venues, the Sports Trust runs free and affordable holiday camps offering children a safe, welcoming space during school breaks – including activities and a hot meal each day.
Children take part in a wide range of sports and creative activities, from skateboarding and climbing to football, cricket, and arts – building confidence while staying active and engaged.
“I’ve met loads of friends here… it’s really fun and I love coming back.”
For many, the biggest impact is confidence — especially as children who start shy or unsure gradually grow into the week.
“It’s helped me become more confident and try new sports I’d never done before.”
Little Athletes: Growing Together
For Stephanie and her son Oliver, Little Athletes has been a place to learn, play, and grow together.
Over 18 months, Stephanie has watched Oliver progress from crawling around the sessions to confidently taking part in activities.
The sessions have also helped Stephanie connect with other local families and become part of a supportive community.
“It gets us out of the house, gives us something fun to do, and we get to meet lots of other people.”
For families like Stephanie’s, Little Athletes is about more than physical activity – it’s a place where children and parents can thrive together.