Coop Making a Difference Community Award 2023-2024: Our Journey

Coop Making a Difference Community Award 2023-2024: Our Journey

At Runspire Nottingham, we are grateful to have received a £520 grant from the Coop Making a Difference Community Award. This generous funding helped us train two new run leaders and one Nordic walking leader, allowing us to expand our volunteer base and offer a wider variety of activity sessions to the Bulwell community.

Our Growth and Transformation

Since receiving this support, we’ve gone from strength to strength. Previously known as Bulwell Runners, we have now proudly adopted the name Runspire Nottingham, as each participant inspires us through their dedication, resilience, and growth. With the momentum provided by this grant, we now welcome between 20 and 30 participants to our sessions twice a week.

The expansion of our sessions and services has allowed us to reach even more people across Nottingham. In the past six months alone, we’ve seen an incredible 1,359 attendees at our sessions. This growth speaks volumes about the need for inclusive, community-driven health and wellbeing initiatives.

Making a Difference in Our Community

The impact of our sessions extends beyond fitness. Through running, walking, and Nordic walking, our participants have experienced significant improvements in their mental health, overall wellbeing, and sense of community. These sessions have created a space where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to push past their limits.

Inspiring Stories from Our Participants

One participant shared their transformative experience:"My experience as part of the Couch to 5K group far surpassed any expectations I had. From the first week, I felt welcomed, and not once did I feel uncomfortable even though I couldn’t run for 1 minute back at week 1. Knowing I was starting a journey with others in the same situation really helped."

Another participant expressed their initial nerves:"I joined on a Couch to 5K and was quite nervous about being the newbie... what an incredible group of people who quickly put me at ease and made me feel included."

A third story highlighted the inclusive and supportive environment we strive to create:"I suffer with an illness, so was scared that I wouldn’t be able to do it, but with the guidance and support, I have managed to complete the Couch to 5K."

Looking Ahead

Thanks to the Coop’s funding, we’ve been able to grow and make a lasting impact on our participants’ lives, improving their fitness, mental health, and confidence. Our community is thriving, and we are excited to continue this journey, offering more opportunities for people to find inspiration, connect with others, and achieve their wellbeing goals.

We look forward to continuing this important work and making an even greater impact in Nottingham!