A NEW programme launching across Devon aims to expand access to inclusive leisure and physical activity opportunities for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Active Devon has been appointed by Devon County Council to lead this work, placing the voices and lived experiences of children and young people with SEND at the heart of the change.

The programme will support physical activity and leisure providers across the county to better understand the barriers faced by children and young people with SEND and make tangible improvements that create welcoming, inclusive environments where every young person feels confident, connected and able to take part.

The programme will focus on:

• Co-designed sessions to better understand what children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities want and need from physical activity;

• Co-created resources such as welcome packs, videos, venue guides and accessibility information;

• Greater engagement with leisure centres and providers, including staff training and mentoring to support real, long term change;

• Improved visibility of inclusive opportunities, supported by enhanced listings on Devon Connect and partner platforms;

• Countywide campaigns celebrating inclusive activity and showcasing real stories from young people and providers

Councillor Richard Jefferies, Devon County Council’s lead Member for Children’s Services, said: ‘The early collaboration we carried out in 2025 with children, young people and their families made it absolutely clear that inclusive access to sport, leisure and community activity is really important to them.

‘They told us what helps them feel welcomed, what gets in the way, and what needs to change.

‘This programme builds directly on that work, ensuring their insight continues to drive improvement across mainstream providers.

‘We are proud to see their voices shaping a countywide approach that gives every young person the chance to take part, belong and thrive’.

If you would like to get involved in this programme, email [email protected] or you can register interest and share some initial views by completing this form here.