Blog

As a result of Active Calderdale’s Community-Led Approach, there is a strong recognition that safe and welcoming parks and green spaces play a key role in helping people stay active. Access to the outdoors, especially close to home, brings wide-ranging benefits for both mental and physical health.

Looking to energise your community, promote healthier lifestyles, and make your neighbourhood more connected? Thousands of pounds in grant funding is now up for grabs to help local organisations get more people walking, wheeling and cycling across West Yorkshire.

The Autumn term is traditionally the time for school cross country and several events take place across the borough, culminating in the Calderdale Schools Cross Country Championships through which winners go on to compete in West Yorkshire finals at Temple Newsam in the spring.

Over the summer, Colby, Caelan, and Blake joined the social action project at Beechwood Park where they gave boxing a try. Their enthusiasm and commitment stood out, and they were rewarded with free gym passes to Halifax Boxing Club. After impressing the team further, all three were given 16-month memberships—and they’ve been making the most of it ever since.

Founded by local resident Jodie Smith in 2016, Sowerby Bridge Snails Running Club was created for those seeking a running group that’s more about community than Lycra or intense training. Now one of the most inclusive and supportive clubs in Calderdale, the Snails welcome runners of all abilities—from total beginners to seasoned marathon runners—in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Calderdale’s Leisure Services are undergoing significant improvements to make physical activity more accessible for everyone. With support from Active Calderdale, Leisure Services is introducing innovative systems and enhanced facilities designed to create better conditions for priority groups to stay active and healthy.

Here’s what’s happening and why it matters.