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Sheena Kotecha

Recruit & Retain Volunteers Workshop – Don’t Miss Out!

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Recruiting & Retaining Volunteers Workshop – Don’t Miss Out!

Want to attract great volunteers and keep them engaged? Join us for a fully-funded, 3-hour workshop with One Westminster, tailored for organisations in the sport & physical activity sector.

You’ll get practical tools & strategies covering:

  • Recruitment methods & policies
  • Onboarding & supervision
  • Volunteer development
  • Retention techniques

 

Apply Now

Not yet sure about a career in Sport, Leisure and Physical Activity?

Then download and read our quick guide giving you 5 tips on how to develop a career in the industry.

Download Guide

Protect The Planet One Bottle Or Can At A Time – Try Our Reverse Vending Machine

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  • News Post

Protect The Planet One Bottle Or Can At A Time – Try Our Reverse Vending Machine

16 September is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, a global reminder of how important it is to protect our environment and safeguard the future of our planet. This year’s theme highlights that when communities come together, positive change is possible.

Right here in Westminster, you can play your part with something as simple as recycling your drink containers. Our Reverse Vending Machine makes it quick and rewarding to do just that.

What is a Reverse Vending Machine?

The machine accepts empty plastic bottles and cans, giving you an easy way to recycle on the go. Instead of ending up in landfill, your containers are captured cleanly and sent for recycling, keeping valuable materials in use and cutting down on waste.

How it works

Users can deposit single-use plastic bottles and aluminium drinks cans into the machine, and for every item deposited, 10p will be donated to the North Paddington Youth Club with 188 items (159 bottles and 29 cans) already deposited, making a helpful start to raise funds.
 
So, come along to Paddington Recreation Ground and check it out.
 

Visit the Reverse Vending Machine at the Pavilion in Paddington Recreation Ground – take a simple step that helps cut waste, protect our environment and show how local action supports global change.

Why does it matter for the ozone layer?

While the machine doesn’t directly capture ozone-depleting substances, it contributes to the bigger picture:

  • Less waste, less energy – Recycling reduces the need to produce new plastics and cans from scratch, lowering emissions and energy use.
  • Cleaner air – Cutting down on landfill and incineration means fewer harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere.
  • Community action – By choosing to recycle, you’re part of a global movement protecting both our climate and the ozone layer that shields life on Earth.

Small steps, big impact

Protecting the ozone layer has been a worldwide success story since the Montreal Protocol – but it’s not a job finished. By building sustainable habits like using the Reverse Vending Machine, we keep that progress moving forward.

  • Small actions add up.
  • Drop in your bottles and cans.
  • Be part of the change.

Recycle today, protect tomorrow – try the Reverse Vending Machine.

Champions of the Future Star Seyfu Joins Olympic Refuge Pathway!

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  • News

Champions of the Future Star Seyfu Joins Olympic Refuge Pathway!

We’re thrilled to announce that Seyfu Jamaal, a standout athlete supported through our Champions of the Future programme, has been awarded one of only 47 Olympic Refuge Foundation scholarships, paving a direct path toward the Refugee Olympic Team for LA28!

What’s the Champions of the Future Programme?

ActiveWestminster’s Champions of the Future initiative supports Westminster’s gifted and talented athletes (aged 12+) by providing:

  • Financial aid for travel, equipment, and accommodation
  • Free access to Westminster leisure centres nationwide operated by our leisure partners Everyone Active
  • Development support via King’s College London—workshops and one-to-one physiotherapy
  • Recognition in ActiveWestminster Awards and regional showcases
  • Coaching qualifications and potential roles with Everyone Active
  • Mentoring opportunities—athletes partner with local primary schools to inspire young people through 1–2 informal visits during the year ActiveWesminster

To qualify, athletes must live, study, or work in Westminster and demonstrate strong performance, such as being ranked in the top 20 regionally or competing in a regional squad during the championship year 

“Being part of the Champions of the Future programme has been a massive support in my journey. It’s helped me stay focused and keep progressing. To now be on the Olympic Refuge pathway is a huge honour, and I’m excited for the years ahead and where this journey could lead” – Seyfu Jamaal

For full details, visit our dedicated Unity In The Community webpage. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ryan Denys at ryandenys@everyoneactive.com.

Seyfu’s Victory: From Local Promise to Global Stage

Seyfu’s inclusion in this elite programme exemplifies the very mission of Champions of the Future: reaching those whose potential might otherwise be overlooked and giving them the support they need to succeed.

Thanks to his extraordinary talent and getting the right backing, Seyfu has now secured a life-changing Olympic Refuge scholarship, bringing him one step closer to competing in Los Angeles 2028. It’s a brilliant testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community support.

More Than a Medal: What Sefyu’s Success Means

  • A crucial boost: From last-minute local support to global recognition, Sefyu’s journey showcases how Champions of the Future can transform talent into opportunity.

  • Community inspiration: His story uplifts not only Westminster’s active community but also refugee athletes everywhere.

  • A moment of pride: We couldn’t be prouder to see one of our Champions stand on the international stage.

Let’s raise our voices and celebrate Sefyu’s remarkable achievement and continue nurturing more Champions of the Future! 

Take your first step by clicking on the button below.

Become a Champion!

Less Than 48 Hours To Go: ActiveWestminster Weekend Is Almost Here!

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  • News

Less Than 48 Hours To Go: ActiveWestminster Weekend Is Almost Here!

The countdown is on! In less than 48 hours, ActiveWestminster Weekend returns, bringing two exciting days of FREE sports, fitness, and wellbeing activities to communities across Westminster.

Taking place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August 2025, ActiveWestminster in partnership with Everyone Active brings it’s second run of this special weekend designed to give a chance to try something new, stay active, and enjoy the good vibes with your fellow Westminster residents. Our a variety of our centres including Moberly, Paddington Recreation Ground, and Marshall Street are opening their doors for two full days of absolutely FREE activities.

What’s On

From family fun to fitness challenges, there’s something for everyone including :

  • Church Street Community Leisure Centre – Bouncy castle, family badminton, table tennis, pickleball (16+).
  • Jubilee Community Leisure Centre – Family badminton, basketball, and table tennis (booking required).
  • Little Venice Sports Centre – Zumba, Body Combat, family badminton sessions.
  • Marshall Street Leisure Centre & Spa – Lane swims, gym inductions, and family swim sessions.

Plus, you’ll get a chance to sign up for the ActiveWestminster Card, which gives residents access to year-round discounts on sport and leisure activities. And the Everyone Active team will be on hand to provide information and guidance on how to sign up for an Everyone Active membership.

Book ahead!

All activities are free, but booking is required due to demand! Have a look at the full ActiveWestminster Weekend Schedule and get booking!

Unity in the Community Football Tournament: Goals, skills and good vibes!

On Sunday 31 August (11:00 am – 4:00 pm), the Unity in the Community Football Tournament will once again take over Paddington Recreation Ground. And as always it promises a day full of energy, talent, and community spirit.

Mixed-gender teams from across Westminster will compete in four age groups: U10, U12, U14 and U16. Alongside the tournament, the Girls Football Festival will be creating a welcoming, fun-packed space for young female players to try new skills, take part in friendly matches, and enjoy the game in a supportive environment.

While registrations are now closed, there may be a few last-minute spaces available on the day. Come along, join the fun, or simply cheer from the sidelines.

Whether you’re playing, supporting, or just soaking up the atmosphere, expect a day of goals, skills, and good vibes at Paddington Rec.

The day also features the Girls Football Festival, offering fun skills sessions and friendly matches for aspiring young female players in a supportive, inclusive space.

Whether you’re returning for more good vibes, missed out last time or new to the pitch, everyone is welcome to join this FREE, exciting community event.

Your Weekend, Your Benefits

  • Secure your spot: Book ahead to make sure you don’t miss out on your favourite activities.
  • Stay active & well: From workouts to wellness tasters, discover free ways to boost your health and fitness.
  • Enjoy it together: Bring friends, family, and neighbours along – there’s something for every age and ability.
  • Be part of the action: Football tournament places fill fast, so register early to guarantee your team’s place.

For full details, visit our dedicated Unity In The Community webpage. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ryan Denys at ryandenys@everyoneactive.com.

Feel free to contact Ryan Denys for all questions at ryandenys@everyoneactive.com

Look It Up, Lock It In!

Two days. One community. Endless good vibes.

Your Weekly Boost: Football For Mind, Body And Community

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Free Multi-sport Sessions at Hallfield Estate with AC-TI-VATE Project

As part of the Activate Neighbourhoods programme, Westminster City Council is committed to encouraging and empowering individuals, groups and communities to lead active, healthy and happy lives. 

To support this mission, we are offering FREE physical activity sessions across a selection of neighbourhoods, with plans to expand to even more areas over time.

We currently have three locations providing a variety of exciting physical activity opportunities for everyone including Hallfield Estate in Bayswater.

Scan the QR Code on the left to find the fun and the scan the QR code on the right or click on the flyer to join the fun! 

Hallfield Estate Sessions

In partnership with our friends at SportWestminster and Westbourne Park Family Centre, ActiveWestminster is serving up a double win at Hallfield: fun-packed multisport sessions to get you moving, plus fresh fruit to keep you fuelled. Think of it as your weekly dose of fitness and five-a-day, every Monday and Tuesday from 4pm – 6pm.

  • Multisport Sessions with SportWestminster: Well known for delivering school holiday activities across the borough, SportWestminster, is delivering lively multi-sport sessions for all ages.

  • Multi-skills and Games with Westbourne Park Family Centre: Just around the corner, the Family Centre is hosting inclusive and interactive sessions perfect for children and families in the Hallfield community.

What’s Next?

We’re continuing to grow the Active Neighbourhoods programme. At Maida Hill Market, exciting new activities will soon be available to help residents stay active locally, and we aim to expand similar offers around Hallfield too.

Let’s continue to keep communities to active, connected and thriving!

Activate Your Neighbourhood

Two More New Play Streets Are Coming Too Westminster This September!

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Two More New Play Streets Are Coming to Westminster This September!

We’re delighted to announce the launch of two more Play Streets this September, creating safe and welcoming spaces for children to play outside their homes, get active, and connect with their community.

Play Streets are designed to increase opportunities for play and physical activity, reduce traffic, and strengthen neighbourhood connections. These two new Play Streets are just the start, with more due to open across Westminster in the future.

Family Fun at the Play Street Openings

We’d love you to join us as we celebrate the launch of Westminster’s newest Play Streets with fun activities for the whole family.

There’ll be active games and sessions with Everyone Active, plus the chance for children to build their confidence on two wheels with Cycle Confident and keep their bikes in top shape with Dr Bike.

  • Kilravock Street, W10 4HX, on Friday 5th September between 4pm – 6pm
  • Ashmore Road (North), W9 3DD on Saturday 6th September between 1pm – 4pm

Bring your family, friends, and neighbours along to play, ride, and celebrate the start of even more Play Streets across Westminster!

Want to bring a Play Street to your neighbourhood? Click the button below to find out how!

Bring Play To Your Street