Our Sport Diversity Cymru went on a two‑day roadshow across Powys and Ceredigion, meeting a variety of groups and volunteers to understand inclusion in sport across Mid Wales.
WHY THIS ROADSHOW MATTERED
As part of ongoing work to improve equity, belonging and participation in sport, our Sport Diversity Cymru project recently undertook a two‑day listening tour across Mid Wales. The visits were led by Rajma Begum (National Sports Diversity Manager) and Sumaya Khan (National Sports Diversity Officer), joined by Elin Wozencraft, Partnership and Programme Manager at the Mid Wales Sports Partnership (MWSP).
The roadshow aimed to understand the experiences of communities across Powys and Ceredigion, identify barriers, and build stronger connections with groups who are eager to participate but may struggle to access sport.
One message became clear across every conversation, that there is a strong and growing desire for sport and physical activity in Mid Wales, but access, cost, confidence and capacity remain key challenges.
POWYS: GROWING DIVERSITY AND THE NEED FOR CONSISTENT OPPORTUNITIES
The first stop was Powys County Council, where staff shared insights into the increasingly diverse population in Newtown. Families are keen to take part in sport, but they need regular sessions, support to understand what’s available, and activities that involve the whole family.
They were interested in sport inclusion training for staff and local clubs, as well as strengthening connections with local initiatives such as Let’s Go Powys.
At Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO), discussions focused on the realities faced by voluntary organisations. While some communities experience thriving activity, others face significant gaps. Capacity issues, inconsistent volunteer support and burnout were recurring themes. PAVO highlighted a need for clearer volunteer roles, taster opportunities, and more regional engagement events.
These conversations reinforced how heavily community sport depends on volunteers and how important it is to help them.
SUPPORTING FAMILIES FACING MULTIPLE BARRIERS
Staff from EYST shared stories of families living in Powys, where cultural, linguistic and financial barriers limit participation. Demand for women‑only swimming was high, alongside interest in badminton and table tennis, but attendance fluctuates due to confidence and transport challenges.
EYST highlighted the importance of trust: many families engage only when accompanied by a familiar face. This underscored how vital relationship‑building is when creating inclusive sport pathways.
They planned to develop a family engagement day, shaped around their needs and schedules.
ABERYSTWYTH MOSQUE & ISLAMIC SOCIETY: CREATING SPACES THAT MOTIVATE PARTICIPATION
In Aberystwyth, the Mosque and Islamic Society emphasised the need for culturally appropriate opportunities, particularly for women and students. Suggestions included women’s coffee mornings, youth nights and table tennis to create informal, welcoming social activities.
While interest exists, funding limitations and the lack of women‑only facilities restrict access. Groups expressed openness to working more closely with local partners and exploring grants that could help establish sustainable activity.
CEREDIGION COUNCIL: YOUTH SERVICES READY TO CONNECT YOUNG PEOPLE TO SPORT
Ceredigion Council shared positive developments already taking place across the county. With diverse youth populations in Aberystwyth, Lampeter and Cardigan, there is strong potential to link young people into wider sport pathways.
Staff were enthusiastic about upcoming family engagement days, recognising their value in connecting young people, families and local services.
ABERYSTWYTH MALAYALI ASSOCIATION: COMMUNITY STRENGTH AND CULTURAL PRIDE
The visit to the Aberystwyth Malayali Association highlighted a vibrant and motivated community. Many families, particularly women working in healthcare, held strong interest in women‑only swimming and gym sessions. Others shared how demanding work and childcare routines limit their ability to attend regular activities.
Examples of community-led initiatives showed what’s possible with the right support. A recent cinema trip saw 33 children attend, 24 of them for the very first time! The association also organises cultural programmes throughout the year, which could offer a natural bridge into sport‑based activity.
With support in securing funding, connecting to local partners and finding suitable venues, this community has significant potential to develop regular programmes.
CAVO: REGIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
The final visit, with CAVO, offered an overview of diverse communities across Ceredigion, including Polish, Syrian and Chinese groups, and insight into local venues, grants and networks that could lead to more inclusive sport provision. Their knowledge will play an essential role as future engagement days and training programmes are developed.
Throughout the roadshow, support from Elin Wozencraft and the Mid Wales Sports Partnership (MWSP) strengthened links across the region. More information about MWSP and other regional sport partnerships can be found on the Sport Wales website.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
The insights gathered during the roadshow will inform a series of next steps:
- Regional family engagement days in Powys and Ceredigion
- Increased access to sport inclusion training
- Support for community groups applying for funding
- Stronger partnerships across youth services, faith organisations and volunteer networks
- Continued collaboration with MWSP to create sustainable pathways into sport
GET INVOLVED
Community groups, volunteers and organisations in Mid Wales who would like to engage in this work are encouraged to connect with the Mid Wales Sports Partnership. WCVA will continue to share updates, resources and opportunities as this work continues.
