Unsung heroes making a difference across North West Leicestershire are being urged to step forward for a groundbreaking new scheme offering free access to leisure facilities in Coalville and Ashby.

Everyone Active, which runs leisure centres in the county in partnership with local councils, wants to support projects which are tackling local issues and changing lives.

This includes Whitwick and Coalville Leisure Centre, Ashby Leisure Centre and Lido – run in partnership with North West Leicestershire District Council

The award-winning operator is due to launch its Community Champions scheme on Thursday (May 1), with the aim of building stronger communities and recognising the dedication of those who go above and beyond.

People involved in mentoring, promoting health and wellbeing, supporting inclusivity or leading environmental or cultural projects are being encouraged to apply.

It can be a charitable initiative or a project that is small or targeted.

Successful applicants will secure valuable use of facilities within their local leisure centres, to help them carry out these projects.

Everyone Active says it will raise awareness of this work to strengthen connections, encourage civic engagement and foster a culture of giving back.

Those selected for the Community Champions scheme are also in with a chance of being shortlisted for the Champions Awards in Autumn of this year.

Meanwhile, Everyone Active is also poised to launch its all-new Colleague Champions scheme, which will recognise and reward Everyone Active employees who consistently go above and beyond in their roles. 

It will celebrate the provision of exceptional customer service, innovative ideas, teamwork, leadership and dedication to Everyone Active's values. 

Applications for both Community Champions and Colleague Champions open on May 1, 2025 and close on June 2, 2025. Applications will be submitted via the Champions website HERE.

James Naylor, Everyone Active's contract manager, said: "We are hugely excited to launch the Community Champions scheme, which we hope will make a real difference in Leicestershire.

"We want to highlight the work of everyday heroes who are changing people's lives and inspiring others to make a positive impact in their communities.

"We encourage local people, community projects and charitable initiatives to get their applications in so we can support the fantastic work that you do."

Everyone Active also runs the Sporting Champions scheme, which empowers aspiring athletes to achieve their full potential through access to state-of-the-art training facilities and invaluable mentoring support from Olympians and Paralympians.

Since its inception in 2016, the scheme has elevated the sporting careers of more than 6,000 athletes by providing them with free access to Everyone Active's 240-plus leisure centres nationwide.