Harrow residents running community initiatives can now apply for free use of local leisure facilities as part of a new scheme designed to recognise and support people making a difference in the borough.
The Community Champions scheme, launched by Everyone Active in partnership with Harrow Council, is open to local individuals and groups involved in projects that improve lives. Everyone Active operates Harrow Leisure Centre, Hatch End Swimming Pool, and Bannister Outdoor Sports Centre.
The initiative, which opened on 1 May 2025, offers free access to spaces such as swimming pools, studios, meeting rooms, and equipment to help community projects thrive.
Everyone Active is encouraging applications from people leading work in areas such as mentoring, wellbeing, inclusion, culture, or the environment. Projects can be charitable or small-scale.
John Sewell, 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 Harrow.
“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.”
Chosen applicants will also be considered for the new Champions Awards, due to be held in autumn 2025 to celebrate standout projects and people.
In addition to the community-focused initiative, Everyone Active has also launched a Colleague Champions programme to recognise exceptional staff performance in areas such as customer service, leadership, and innovation.
Applications for both schemes are open until Thursday, 12 June 2025. Entries can be submitted via www.ea-champions.com.
Everyone Active also runs the long-standing Sporting Champions scheme, which since 2016 has helped more than 6,000 athletes across the UK by giving them access to over 240 leisure centres and support from professional mentors.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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