Mixed Ability Squash 57

Did you know one in five people in England have a disability or long-term condition? People with disabilities and long-term conditions can face barriers to taking part in sport and physical activity - but many people would like to be more active.

We’ve partnered with International Mixed Ability Sport (IMAS) to bring you Mixed Ability Squash 57 and help you open up your club to new communities and provide regular, sustainable opportunities for people to take part in squash 57.

Mark Goodwin, IMAS Director and Co-Founder said:

"There's a whole world of people in your community who feel they can't get through the doors. Let's welcome them into the club, once those doors are opened, you're going to have a whole new cohort of people using club facilities, socialising in the club and demystifying disability."

International Mixed Ability Sport is an organisation which works to break down the barriers people face to participate in mainstream sports by providing inclusive and open activities that are safe, welcoming and non-judgemental.

Barnsley Squash Club in Yorkshire and IMAS recently held a 'Have-a-Go' day where 30 people from the local community were invited to try their hand at squash 57. Watch the video below to find out more:

Why your club should adopt the mixed ability approach

• Attract new members.
• Become more representative of your local community.
• Provide fresh inspiration for founding members and long-term volunteers to continue participating in club life.
• Get a feel-good factor spreading amongst your membership with new faces and renewed enthusiasm.

Funding support

England Squash are offering up to £500 of funding for clubs, whilst IMAS will provide you with the know-how to deliver up to two open days and attract disability groups and local colleges. Here are some things you should consider before applying:

• someone from the club should attend the IMAS introductory webinar (Monday 25 April)
• you should be able to host two open days with a plan to integrate new members through buddy systems or provide regular opportunities for new players to participate in beginner group activity
• offer flexible or discounted memberships
• have coaches or leaders available to deliver fun, beginner-friendly activity
• use the England Squash App to record players.

Express your interest in the pilot and fill in our form before Monday 9 May 2022. After the deadline, we’ll follow up with a call to discuss the requirements and your involvement in the pilot.

Funding is currently closed, more opportunities to receive grants and equipment will be announced and communicated when avaible.

Further guidance

To find out more about introducing mixed ability sport at your club/venue, join the free IMAS workshop. In this one-hour workshop, find out how to welcome a greater diversity of people, increase membership and become more sustainable.