At The Shaw Centre we believe that being active is about far more than physical health.
The way we see it, movement its about building confidence, creating friendships, breaking down barriers and helping people with learning disabilities become visible and valued members of their community.
For over 40 years we've supported adults with learning disabilities across Manchester to live fuller, happier and more independent lives.
Every person who comes through our doors has their own abilities, ambitions and potential, and our role is to create opportunities that allow those strengths to shine.
Thanks to funding from Sport England, we launched our Move&Thrive project – a programme designed to make physical activity enjoyable, inclusive and accessible for everyone.
But what we couldn't have predicted is just how much it would transform our community.
Move&Thrive encouraged people to get active through fitness sessions, walking groups and outdoor games, but the biggest changes were measured in smiles, confidence and connection.
People who previously lacked confidence began volunteering to lead warm-ups and suggest new activities, and those who were once reluctant to leave the building started exploring parks and leisure facilities across Greater Manchester.
They weren't just becoming more active – they were becoming more involved in the world around them.
Thanks to funding from Sport England, we launched our Move & Thrive project – a programme designed to make physical activity enjoyable, inclusive and accessible for everyone.
The project also opened our doors to the wider community. Local fitness instructors, musicians and volunteers gave their time, bringing fresh energy and building meaningful relationships.
These connections continue today and local organisations now recognise the value that people with learning disabilities bring to society.
Move & Thrive didn't just build healthier individuals – it helped build a more inclusive community and perhaps the greatest change has been in confidence.
When someone discovers they can complete an exercise class or walk further than they thought possible, they stop thinking they can't do it and start wondering what's next.
But the best part is that this confidence starts spreading in to every aspect of life.
Earlier this year our members took on one of their biggest challenges yet, recording an original song called '60 Years of Dreaming'.
Written to celebrate 60 years since England's 1966 World Cup victory, the song celebrates hope, teamwork, resilience and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to dream big.
For some members, recording a song was previously unimaginable.
While the theme was a separate project, we firmly believe it was made possible by the confidence our members developed through the Move&Thrive programme.
This is because Sport England's funding helped people believe in themselves and once they achieved one challenge, they became willing to embrace many more.
Today the impact continues. Our members are more active, healthier and more connected than ever before.
We're incredibly grateful to Sport England for investing in our community.
Move&Thrive has created a lasting legacy that has helped people find their voices and realise that their dreams matter.