New Community Sport and Physical Activity Network launched in Roehampton

The Community Sport and Physical Activity Network (CSPAN) officially launched last week in Roehampton, bringing together a wide range of organisations to network and connect around the opportunities that exist to break down barriers to physical activity and help more people live healthier, happier lives.

The inaugural CSPAN event buzzed with energy as local running groups, sports organisations, and leisure providers came together to share fresh ideas and innovative ways to inspire movement in every corner of the community. Discussions focused on tackling obstacles that prevent people from participating in sport and physical activity, ensuring that opportunities are accessible and inclusive for all.

The launch featured keynote speeches from Kafui Brese, CEO of FAST London, a charity working with young people from ethnic minority backgrounds through sports and physical activities, and Caitlin Limmer from Bearcat, a community running club in Richmond.

The event was the first opportunity to bring partners together since the Wandsworth Moves Together strategy launched last summer, a bold initiative aimed at making sport and leisure affordable and available to everyone. We launched our new CPSAN Chair and expressed our commitment to sustain the network.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “We’re determined to make sure every resident in Wandsworth can benefit from the fantastic leisure opportunities available in our borough. But we know there are challenges to overcome, and we can’t do it alone.

“That’s why it was so inspiring to see so many incredible community partners, who are the beating heart of Wandsworth, come together to drive real change. By working side by side, we can make a lasting impact and ensure that physical activity is accessible for everyone.”

As part of this commitment, the council’s Access for All scheme is providing free or discounted access to sports and leisure facilities, ensuring everyone has an equal chance to get involved, no matter their circumstances.

Keith Newton, former President and current coach at the Herne Hill Harriers, is one of the new Chairs of the CSPAN. In his opening remarks at the launch, he said: “One of the most important lessons I’ve learned through my running club is the incredible power of partnership working, and that comes through very strongly in the Wandsworth Moves Together strategy. 

“We need to work closely with health partners and schools, improve facilities across the borough, and focus on inclusivity for groups who aren’t currently accessing sports.”

The launch event was held in Roehampton to highlight a key focus of the strategy, bringing estate-based physical activity programmes directly to communities. One such success story is the pilot Couch to 5K programme on the Alton Estate, helping local residents take their first steps towards a more active lifestyle.

Encouraging more women and girls to participate in sport is another priority. Asma Choudhry, Chair of Roehampton Wellbeing for Women and Children, has played a key role in bringing women’s badminton sessions to Roehampton Sports Centre. She said: “Lots of people assume Asian women don’t engage in physical activities, but that’s not true. If the right facilities are available, they are more than willing to get involved.

“This launch is amazing because collaboration is key. When organisations connect, we can find more ways to support our communities and create real change.”

With CSPAN now in action, Wandsworth is taking a big step forward in making physical activity an easy, enjoyable, and accessible part of daily life for all.