Inclusive sports programme held in Watford to break barriers

Nearly 100 people from across Hertfordshire took part in a Power House Games event in Watford on June 10, held at Woodside Leisure Centre.

The multi-sport day promoted inclusivity and accessibility in physical activity, and formed part of Herts’ 'No Limits 2026' Year of Disability Sport and Physical Activity.

Initiated by Co-op to raise funds for Barnardo's and delivered by Power2Inspire in support of the No Limits 2026 Campaign - Hertfordshire’s Year of Disability Sport & Physical Activity (Image: Simon Jacobs)

Peter Taylor, the mayor of Watford, said: "It was fantastic to see so many young people enjoying sport together in such a positive and inclusive environment. Events like this show the importance of ensuring everyone has the opportunity to take part, regardless of ability."

Lots of different sports are available (Image: Simon Jacobs)

The event was initiated by Co-op to raise funds for Barnardo's and delivered by Power2Inspire and supported by a range of organisations. These included Watford Borough Council, Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership, Everyone Active, and London Titans Wheelchair Basketball Club.

People playing tennis (Image: Simon Jacobs)

Cllr Jennifer Pattinson, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and housing, officially opened the day's activities.

More than 50 pupils from primary and secondary schools took part, including those with additional needs and disabilities. Also participating were adults with learning disabilities and neurodiversity, alongside corporate volunteers.

John Willis, CEO at Power2Inspire, said: "The Power House Games are all about bringing people together through inclusive sport and showing that everyone can play. It was wonderful to see pupils supporting one another, trying new activities and building confidence throughout the day."

The event celebrates accessibility, teamwork and the power of sport (Image: Simon Jacobs)

Participants were divided into 12 mixed teams and introduced to six inclusive sports: wheelchair rugby, wheelchair basketball, boccia, goalball, adapted tennis, and new age kurling. By the end of the event, each person had tried every sport in a supportive and barrier-free setting.

People in wheelchairs playing basket ball (Image: Simon Jacobs)

More basket ball (Image: Simon Jacobs)

Initiated by Co-op to raise funds for Barnardo's and delivered by Power2Inspire in support of the No Limits 2026 Campaign (Image: Simon Jacobs)

A Parkgate School pupil said: "Everyone encouraged each other and it made me feel included."

Geraldine Strohm, Co-op member activator for Hertfordshire, said: "Through work with our members in their communities, we've seen first-hand the incredible impact of organisations like Power2Inspire and London Titans."

After the main games, participants enjoyed an open session of wheelchair basketball and rugby led by athletes from London Titans and Saracens Wheelchair Rugby Club. The event also connected participants to clubs and providers, encouraging ongoing involvement in inclusive sport.