Unique Partnership to promote Sport in Cheshire

A national ‘first’, the move will see trailblazers, Sport Cheshire – a charitable trust and part of the County Sports Partnership Network - streamline
development operations across the Borough.

CWAC’s Sports Development Unit staff and budgets have joined forces with Sport Cheshire to create a pioneering community sport system.

The unit currently offers support to local clubs, coaches and volunteers and works with local partners to deliver a range of outreach programmes to inspire locals to
get fit and active.

Already at the forefront of change and improvement, Sport Cheshire has a national reputation for excellence, and is widely recognised for its work in motivating
participation in young people and leadership in Coach Education and Volunteering.

Said Chief Executive Jackie Bryson: “Despite considerable financial investment sport participation levels in England have, at best, been flat lining.

“We want to buck that trend in West Cheshire by offering more opportunities and making residents of all ages aware of those opportunities and how to access them.”

Since its inception, the Council had been working closely with Sport Cheshire to increase interest and participation in a wide range of sporting activities.

“This partnership is an indication of the Council’s continuing commitment to sport and the benefits of keeping our residents fit and active,” said Councillor Stuart
Parker, Executive Member for Culture and Recreation.

“It will combine the qualities and experience of both organisations to accelerate the number of those playing sport, through our schools, youth organisations, clubs,
lifestyle and leisure centres.”

Added Councillor Parker: “Sport Cheshire aims to inspire the creation of a world leading community sport system locally with participation in sport a regular habit
for many more people.

“Our partnership will ensure the delivery of sporting opportunities in the ways and places that people want.

Backed by a number of key stakeholders across the area, Sport Cheshire beat off competition to be awarded a four year ‘outcomes-based’ contract.

“We will be required to increase levels of participation by adults, children and young people and improve the standard of coaches and volunteers” said Sport Cheshire
chairman, David Newton.

“Club networks will be strengthened and we will be working to ensure that Cheshire West residents benefit from national and regional sporting initiatives and
programmes.”

Mike Diaper, Sport England’s Executive Director of Youth and Communities, said: “The partnership arrangement between Sport Cheshire and Cheshire West and Chester Council is the first of its kind nationally.

“It represents a more cost efficient approach to delivering sport development at a local level. We hope that the partnership proves to be beneficial for both parties
and results in more people in the area regularly participating in high quality sport.”