Removing Barriers

Making activity easier to access

People can face many different barriers to taking part — from cost and transport to confidence, awareness, facilities and accessibility. We want to understand those barriers locally and work with the community to reduce them.

A member of Hereward Heat wheelchair basketball club chasing the ball in a sports hall
St Denys' church in Sleaford under a blue sky

Listen first

Before deciding what to do, we want to hear from the people and organisations involved. Our annual community needs assessment asks clubs, groups and schools what gets in the way and what would help.

Understanding local barriers

Barriers can include the areas below. These are common themes we want to explore with the community, not findings about Sleaford.

Affordability

The cost of taking part, equipment or travel.

Transport

Getting to and from activities.

Accessibility

Venues and sessions that work for disabled people.

Suitable facilities

Having the right spaces available at the right times.

Awareness

Knowing what’s on and how to join in.

Confidence

Feeling welcome, especially when trying something new.

Time

Fitting activity around work, school and caring.

Inclusive provision

Sessions designed for different ages, abilities and backgrounds.

A bowler delivering the ball during a village cricket match at Addingham

Turn evidence into action

What we learn will help inform our priorities, the partnerships we build and future initiatives. We’ll share findings collectively so everyone can see what local organisations told us.

Be part of a more active Sleaford.

Whether you want to find an activity, support a local club, volunteer your time or simply learn more, there’s a place for you in our community.