Community Sport & Health Update
Barnet Hosts National Open Weekend
Better Barnet leisure centres successfully hosted the GLL National Open Weekend on 18th and 19th July, welcoming residents to enjoy a wide range of free activities across all five centres. The event generated 995 bookings, with Hendon Leisure Centre recording the highest attendance thanks to the popularity of its climbing wall and pickleball sessions. The weekend provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the diverse activities available across Better Barnet, encourage new customers to try their local leisure centre, and support future plans to expand social sports programmes.
Hendon Gymnastics Festival
Hendon Leisure Centre hosted the Annual Barnet Festival Gymnastics Competition on 5th July, welcoming 300 young gymnasts from Hendon, Burnt Oak and Kensington Leisure Centres, alongside an audience of more than 1,000 spectators. The event celebrated participants of all abilities, with every gymnast receiving a medal, certificate and commemorative T-shirt. Supported by volunteers, coaches and centre staff, the competition highlighted the success of Barnet's gymnastics programme and the opportunities available for young people to progress within the sport.
Commonwealth Games – Finnie Visits Barnet
As part of GLL's partnership with Team England ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, Finnie, the official Games mascot, visited Finchley Lido Leisure Centre on 29th July. Throughout the day, Finnie met customers and staff while taking part in a variety of activities, including supporting lifeguards, welcoming visitors at reception and joining an adult swimming lesson. The visit created a fun and engaging atmosphere while helping to promote physical activity and the excitement of the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
Launch of Cool Spaces
To support residents during the summer heatwaves, all five Better Barnet leisure centres have been designated as Cool Spaces, providing free, welcoming areas where visitors can escape the heat. Each location offers access to drinking water, comfortable seating and a safe environment to rest and stay hydrated. The initiative supports the health and wellbeing of the local community while reinforcing Better Barnet's commitment to providing accessible spaces for residents throughout the summer.
Launch of Summer Campaign
The Small Wins, Big Summer campaign encourages residents to stay active by celebrating the small, everyday moments that contribute to healthier lifestyles and quality family time. Across Better Barnet leisure centres, the campaign highlights the wide range of activities available for all ages and abilities, inspiring more people to try something new while reinforcing Better Barnet's commitment to creating healthier, more connected communities throughout the summer.
New Apprentice Starts in Barnet
Better Barnet is pleased to welcome Kunal Solanki as the new Community Sport Activator Apprentice. Kunal will support the delivery of community sport sessions and help develop dry-side activities and programmes across the borough. His appointment strengthens the Community Sports team and supports the continued growth of community participation opportunities.