Inclusive sport being championed in Wiltshire
The second Get Out Get Active Games has been held in Melksham
Inclusive sport and physical activity is being championed in Wiltshire, with 120 people attending a day of inclusive sport.
It's part of the national Get Out, Get Active programme, aiming to help people of all abilities connect, get active and boost their wellbeing.
The day, held at Melksham Community Campus in July, hosted the county's second Get Out Get Active Games (GOGA) and saw people with and without disabilities take part in a range of activities, including boccia, archery, dance, cricket and relay races.
Through it's Inclusive Activities programme, Wiltshire Council offers accessible activities, including some of those played at this years GOGA Games, on a weekly basis.
Funded by the Activity Alliance, the GOGA initiative supports the least active members of the community to become more physically active, whilst also promoting inclusive participation and creating friendships.
GOGA sessions run regularly in Melksham, Calne, Amesbury, Durrington, Salisbury, Redlynch, Tidworth, Ludgershall, and Chippenham, and are open to all, bringing disabled and non-disabled people together.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Leisure, Libraries, and Communities, said: "The GOGA Games and our wider Inclusive Activities programme show how inclusive sport can transform lives. It's not just about physical activity—it's about building confidence, having fun, making friends and building a sense of community.
"I encourage anyone, whether they're looking to try something new, meet people or simply get a bit more active, to take a look at what we have to offer, and come along to a session.
"I'm proud that Wiltshire is leading the way in addressing the barriers to participation and making sport accessible for everyone."
The Council is hoping to be able to offer more inclusive and accessible leisure facilities to people with learning disabilities in Westbury.
In a joint effort between Adult Social Care and Leisure, Culture and Communities, the council wants to gain a better understanding of the needs of individuals with learning disabilities and how local leisure centres can adapt to meet them.
A pilot programme has been set up, with the authority speaking to people with learning disabilities to create a tailored, free leisure offer that works for them—ensuring activities are available at suitable times and in welcoming environments.
If successful, this approach could be extended to other areas across Wiltshire, helping to create more inclusive leisure opportunities county-wide.
Cllr Gordon King, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: "Inclusion and opportunity are at the heart of everything we do. Everyone deserves the chance to enjoy leisure and sport, regardless of ability or background.
"Our work in Westbury is a great example of how we're listening to people with learning disabilities and working together to create spaces that are truly welcoming and accessible. We want to ensure that everyone in Wiltshire can take part, feel valued, and thrive."