Introduction

Clay Cross Active is dedicated to reducing health, social, and financial inequalities by creating an environment where every resident, regardless of ability, background, age, or circumstance can take part in physical activity. The centre’s approach combines accessible design, inclusive programming, and targeted financial support to ensure that all members of the community have equal opportunities to improve their wellbeing.

Promoting Inclusive Access to the Centre

Clay Cross Active works to remove transport and mobility barriers by encouraging sustainable travel and ensuring that the building is easy to navigate for all users. The centre promotes active travel through its website and provides secure cycle racks on site. Access by public transport is straightforward, with bus services stopping directly outside the building, ensuring that those without cars, including younger residents, older adults, and low‑income households can easily attend.

Parking has been designed with inclusion in mind. Wider parent‑and‑child bays support families, while designated disabled bays are positioned close to the entrance for convenience. Step‑free routes, ramps, and lifts throughout the centre ensure that customers with mobility needs can move comfortably and independently within the building.

Facilities Designed for Inclusion

The facility provides a range of features that support users with diverse needs. Accessible fitness equipment is integrated into the gym to ensure that disabled users or those with mobility differences can take part alongside others. Accessible changing rooms are located at several key points within the centre to make changing easier for users with additional requirements.

Communication support is also built into customer service. The StarLeaf interpretation service is available at reception to assist individuals who may need language or communication help, and Clay Cross Active is part of the BSL Charter, demonstrating a commitment to supporting D/deaf and hard‑of‑hearing visitors. The Just Do More website has a range of accessibility features to enable users of a range of demographics to navigate their way around facility information.

In the swimming areas, the centre offers a village‑style changing environment with accessible facilities throughout, including a fully compliant Changing Places room for users with complex needs. Recessed steps into both pools make entries and exits easier, while a Pool Pod and an Otter Hoist provide assisted transfers for individuals who require physical support. These combined features make aquatic activity safe, dignified, and welcoming for everyone.

Targeted Activities for Under‑represented Groups

Clay Cross Active runs several programmes specifically aimed at increasing participation among groups who may otherwise struggle to access leisure opportunities. Children and young people with special educational needs can take part in SEN Gymnastics and SEN Soft Play sessions, ensuring that activity is both enjoyable and accessible in a supportive environment.

The centre’s 3G pitch also helps to reduce inequalities by offering low‑cost pay‑and‑play football sessions. This affordable option encourages participation from residents who might otherwise be excluded due to price. Partner clubs further enhance inclusion by delivering sessions for pan‑disability groups, SEN participants, and other harder‑to‑reach demographics.

To support residents with health conditions or those returning to exercise after a period of inactivity, Clay Cross Active holds Water Wellbeing Accreditation. This enables trained instructors to deliver gentle, supportive aquatic sessions tailored to individual needs. Additionally, the weekly Active Ability programme provides low‑cost opportunities for activities such as racket sports, chair‑based exercise, and swimming, making it ideal for older adults, disabled participants, and anyone seeking an entry‑level route into regular physical activity.

Financial Inclusion Through Concessionary Support

Affordability plays a major role in tackling inequality, and the North East Derbyshire District Council Concessionary Pass Scheme is central to this effort. The scheme provides residents living in North East Derbyshire with up to 40% off full‑price activities, making leisure more accessible to people who might otherwise be financially excluded.

Eligibility includes residents receiving Council Tax Benefit, Housing Benefit, or Universal Credit (with the housing element), people of State Pension age, and dependent children aged 1 to 17 living with an eligible adult. Support is also extended to those referred by healthcare professionals due to ill‑health, students aged 16 and over, and individuals currently serving in or previously part of the Armed Forces. This broad scope ensures that financial challenges do not prevent participation in physical activity.

Conclusion

Clay Cross Active plays a vital role in tackling inequalities by reducing physical, financial, and social barriers that prevent people from being active. Through thoughtfully designed facilities, inclusive programming, community partnerships, and comprehensive concession schemes, the centre ensures that all residents, especially those who are most vulnerable can access opportunities to improve their health and wellbeing.

Its commitment to continuous improvement, equality of access, and inclusive practice positions Clay Cross Active as a key driver of positive community change, strengthening both individual health outcomes and the wider social wellbeing of North East Derbyshire.

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