This September Wiltshire Council’s Sport and Physical Activity team are launching a vibrant line-up of community sport programmes, designed to get residents moving, connecting, and thriving. From men’s health initiatives to empowering sessions for young women, the schedule offers something for everyone. For those interested in supporting rather than participating, the Community Sport team is also seeking passionate volunteers to help deliver the sessions.

Healthy Man is a brand-new initiative supporting men across Wiltshire to take positive steps towards better physical and mental health.  Sessions start at Olympiad Leisure Centre from Monday 15 September, running from 7pm to 8.30pm. Participants can enjoy a mix of instructor-led sports including walking football, touch rugby, pickleball and circuits. Activities will be delivered alongside expert-led workshops on healthy eating, weight management, and mental wellbeing.

Each session ends with a relaxed group discussion, offering a chance to connect, share experiences, and learn together. There is no pressure to attend every week, and men are encouraged to bring along friends, family, or colleagues. Additional Healthy Man sessions are due to launch in January 2026.

The female-only This Girl Can: Stretch and Stroll leaves from Melksham Forest Community Centre each Friday at 10am. Each session is designed to help more women enjoy the benefits of being active outdoors. Led by female instructors, each session explores different walking routes around Melksham, incorporating light stretching and movement using outdoor features like steps and slopes; after the session, participants can take up the opportunity to socialise over a cup of tea.

The sessions offer a welcoming, adaptive space where women can move at their own pace, meet others, and enjoy the outdoors. Additional This Girl Can classes and walks are available in Salisbury, Westbury and Trowbridge.

Pickleball is sweeping the country and there are weekly sessions taking place through Wiltshire. This fun, fast-growing sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong and it’s perfect for all skill levels. The community sessions are low-cost, supported by coaches and free from the pressure of a competitive environment. No membership needed to take part, people can just turn up, play and enjoy.

A full list of activities for adults across Wiltshire is available at https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-activities-for-adults.

For children and teens (aged eight to 16 years), Doorstep Sports Clubs are free, weekly multi-sport sessions that are designed to bring fun and fitness directly into local communities. The clubs offer a safe, inclusive space to play, learn, and grow, without the barriers of cost or travel.

Led by trained staff and supported by local partners, the sessions promote wellbeing, leadership and community spirit. Activities range from football and basketball to creative games and challenges, ensuring that there is something for every young person.

Following a successful summer pilot, Us Girls continues to make a positive impact in Melksham. The programme creates safe, supportive spaces for teenage girls to stay active and build confidence through sport. Sessions are tailored to participants’ interests, including meditation, boxercise, street dance, and jujitsu, with a focus on breaking down barriers and boosting self-esteem.

Each session ends with time to relax, chat and connect, helping girls build lasting friendships and feel truly supported.

More information on opportunities for young people is available at https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure-activities-for-young-people.

The Community Sports team is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help deliver our programmes across Wiltshire. As a volunteer, you’ll play a key role in encouraging participation, promoting healthy lifestyles, and supporting individuals of all ages and abilities. Anyone who is interested in learning more about the volunteering opportunities available can email communitysport@wiltshire.gov.uk.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Leisure, Libraries, and Communities said, “It’s not just about physical activity, it’s about building confidence, having fun, making friends and creating a sense of community. I encourage anyone, whether they’re looking to try something new, meet people or simply get a bit more active, to take a look at what we have to offer and come along to one of our community sessions. I’m proud that Wiltshire is leading the way in addressing barriers to participation and making sport accessible for everyone.

“And if you’re passionate about helping others, I’d urge you to consider volunteering with the team. Volunteers are the heartbeat of our programmes, they help create welcoming spaces, support participants, and inspire others to get involved. It’s a fantastic way to give back, support your community, and make a real difference in people’s lives.”