It’s often said that Reading’s enduring sense of community is what sets it aside from many other successful town’s and cities and this September, we have a wonderful opportunity to showcase that spirit in action.
This Saturday (13 September), Palmer Park Leisure Centre and Stadium will host Reading’s Festival of Inclusivity. It’s the result of a collaboration between the Council, our leisure partners GLL and Sport Together Berkshire CIC and it promises to be a vibrant afternoon of sport, connection and celebration.
The event is open to everyone aged 8 and over, with a special focus on welcoming those who may face barriers to accessing sport, whether that is due to physical, learning or neurological conditions. It’s about creating a space where everyone can feel the joy of sport and movement and maybe try something new.
From athletics and football to wheelchair rugby and basketball, there will be a wide range of sports for people to try in a supportive and inclusive environment. Families are encouraged to come along, cheer on participants, and enjoy a day out at our modern and fully accessible Palmer Park facilities.
The Festival Village will be buzzing with local organisations who do incredible work out on the ground in in our communities. These include Reading Mencap, Berkshire Brigands Mixed Ability Rugby and Berkshire Music Trust, among others. It’s a chance to connect, learn and celebrate the diversity that makes Reading such a special place to live.
The day will end with a heartwarming “Start Together, Finish Whenever” one-mile sponsored walk, jog, run or push, raising funds to support future inclusive sport initiatives. It’s not about speed or competition; it’s about showing up, being part of something bigger, and moving forward together.
I want to thank participants of the Council’s Access and Disabilities Working Group for their valuable guidance in helping to shape our leisure and culture services, and this particular event. Their voices ensure that every resident can enjoy what Reading has to offer.
So please, join us on Saturday 13 September. Whether you’re taking part or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll be helping to build a more inclusive, active, and connected Reading.
Tickets are just £3 each and can be booked here https://sporttogetherberks.co.uk/next-event
By Cllr Liz Terry, leader of Reading Borough Council
