Celebrating partnerships that create sporting opportunities

Community sport in West Berkshire is thriving thanks to a strong partnership between local VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) organisations and West Berkshire Council.

Central to this success is the VCSE Sports Voice - a vibrant forum linking grassroots sport and physical activity providers with council representatives. It's become a catalyst for change, sparking meaningful dialogue, tackling challenges and unlocking new opportunities for residents.

This collaboration has already delivered tangible results:

• Netball Stars raised concerns about poor surfaces at Kennet and underused courts at Henwick. The council secured funding to resurface both, restoring vital community assets
• Local parkrun teams collaborated with council officers to launch a second event venue in Victoria Park, Newbury, supported by start-up costs and equipment, thereby broadening access to inclusive activity
• Cycling clubs (Newbury Road Club, Newbury Velo and West Berkshire Spokes) received help to stage a Festival of Cycling, celebrating 100 years of Newbury Road Club and engaging the wider community

Rachel Peters, CEO of Volunteer Centre West Berkshire and facilitator of the Sports Voice forum, said:

"This collaboration is more than a success story, it's a blueprint for community-led progress, showing a united commitment to health, well-being and social connection through sport.

"These achievements prove what's possible when passion meets partnership. Together, we're removing barriers and championing participation like never before. The council isn't just solving problems, it's creating lasting opportunities that will enrich lives for years to come."