In 2024, we celebrated a remarkable milestone—engaging and consulting with over 1,000 community stakeholders across Australia and New Zealand through our Community Network Forums.
This concept stems from Belgravia Foundation’s evidence-based best-practise guidance on community engagement excellence. This achievement marks an important step in fostering meaningful relationships with key community collaborators and partners, ensuring that Belgravia Leisure remains at the forefront of diversity, inclusion, and community wellbeing.
Belgravia Leisure Community Network Forums held bi-annually, serve as a platform for open dialogue, enabling Belgravia Leisure venues to actively listen to the needs, preferences, and priorities of their communities.
This engagement has proven invaluable in shaping programs and initiatives that address critical areas of loneliness, social connection, mental health support, staff training and employment, all of which focus on reducing barriers for underrepresented groups in leisure activities.
Building trust and strengthening communities
Through these forums, Belgravia Leisure has cultivated strong relationships with local government bodies, non-profit organisations, community groups, and small businesses. The result? A stronger sense of trust and collaboration, which has led to an impressive range of initiatives focused on inclusion, wellbeing, and support for all.
Some examples below:
- All In Swim Program Launches at Ascot Vale and Keilor East Leisure Centres
- Belgravia Foundation Redcliffe pool youth empowerment school holiday program
- La Trobe Community Health partner with Knox Leisureworks to research sensory quiet times
One of the standout successes of these forums has been the development of innovative and inclusive programs, all designed with the feedback and needs of the community in mind. Whether it’s increasing access to exercise for seniors, creating uniquely tailored programs for people with disabilities, or providing safe and welcoming spaces for participation, Belgravia Leisure has worked alongside stakeholders to ensure that no one is left behind.
Promoting physical, mental and social wellbeing
The focus of these collaborative efforts has been the creation of activities that not only improve physical health but also promote mental and social well-being. By prioritising inclusivity, the forums have helped to break down barriers that often prevent underrepresented groups from accessing leisure services.
Stakeholders, including local councils, schools, health organisations, and community groups, have come together with Belgravia Leisure to co-design and implement programs that reflect the diverse needs of their communities. These initiatives have already made a profound impact on thousands of individuals, contributing to greater community connection, improved mental health, and a stronger sense of belonging.
Celebrating the impact: A year of collaboration and innovation
Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure have had an outstanding year, driven by collaboration and innovation. Through Cérge, an innovative communication tool, Belgravia Leisure has enhanced accessibility and engagement for individuals with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive experience across their venues. The partnership with Ending Loneliness Together has helped raise awareness of loneliness as a pressing social issue, advocating for stronger community connections. Immersion Therapy, an award-winning exercise-based therapy, continues to provide life-changing support, helping individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions move freely and regain independence in a weightless underwater environment.
These pioneering initiatives reflect Belgravia Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, empowering communities, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Looking forward: A future of continued growth and impact
Reflecting on the success of the 2024 Community Network Forums, there is excitement about the future for the entire leisure sector. The engagement of over 1,000 stakeholders is just the beginning. Plans for 2025 include encouraging the uptake of these forums at even more locations, ensuring that the diverse voices of the community continue to shape our collective work to ensure no one misses out.
The success of the 2024 Community Network Forums stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative role that community-driven initiatives can play in creating stronger, healthier and more connected communities.
These partnerships will continue to make a lasting, positive impact on communities across Australia and New Zealand.
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