Britannia Hosts Inclusive Open Day

Britannia Leisure Centre recently welcomed families from across Hackney for a successful Inclusive Open Day, designed specifically for young people with physical disabilities and their families.

The event was developed in partnership with the Homerton Children’s Disability Team, following feedback from previous sessions. The aim was to create a day centred around inclusive, engaging activities that offer meaningful opportunities for participation and ongoing involvement in sport and physical activity.

A total of 105 people attended throughout the day, with many families joining through referrals from local schools and the Short Breaks team. Attendees had the chance to try a wide range of activities, including wheelchair basketball, accessible cycling, cricket, badminton and boccia.

A highlight of the day was the sensory disco, which created a welcoming and inclusive space for young people to enjoy music and movement in a supportive environment. The session also helped raise awareness of the centre’s regular monthly sensory disco.

Many of the activities were delivered by specialist external providers, including the Hackney Warriors Wheelchair Basketball team and Disability Sports Coach. Several of the coaches had lived experience of disability, providing positive role models and inspiration for participants and their families.

Alongside the sports sessions, a range of local organisations hosted information stalls, offering advice and support to parents and carers. These included Short Breaks, HIT Squad, Power UP, Hackney Shed and Bloomsbury Football.

Feedback from families was extremely positive, with many highlighting the variety of activities available and the opportunity for their children to access new sports beyond the event.

The Inclusive Open Day is part of Britannia Leisure Centre’s ongoing commitment to reducing barriers to physical activity and creating welcoming, inclusive spaces for all members of the community.