Bedford Borough Council is celebrating the first anniversary of Beyond Limits, an initiative designed to promote physical activity and wellbeing for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Since launching in September 2024, Beyond Limits has welcomed over 1,600 attendances, offering accessible and enjoyable activities for both adults and young people to engage in movement at their own pace within a supportive and fun environment.
Beyond Limits provides a wide range of activities, including chair dance, archery, yoga, badminton, and bowls, aiming to reduce health inequalities, encourage social inclusion, and empower people with SEND to live fulfilling lives.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture at Bedford Borough Council, said, “Beyond Limits is a shining example of how we can create a truly inclusive community where everyone has the chance to enjoy physical activity and improve their wellbeing. We are delighted with how popular these sessions have become and the positive impact they have on participants’ confidence, health, and social connections. We look forward to continuing to support and expand this important project.”
A local group that attends regularly said, “The Beyond Limits activities have been a fantastic addition for our service users. From Chair Dance via Zoom to multi-activity sessions like archery, yoga, badminton, bowls and more, everyone has the chance to find something they enjoy.
“These sessions build confidence, improve health, and refresh friendships, while encouraging people to try new things and support each other. It’s rewarding to see the smiles, the teamwork, and the achievements each week. We’d absolutely recommend Beyond Limits to others -it’s something our group truly loves and talks about long after the sessions end.”.
The initiative is open to people aged 18 and over, as well as young people aged 10 to 18 with SEND. Sessions take place at local leisure centres, which are fully accessible, ensuring a welcoming environment tailored to individual needs. Adult in-person sessions are held every Monday from 10am-midday at Bedford International Athletic Stadium, excluding bank holidays. There are also online chair dance sessions every Monday, 2-3pm, and Thursdays from 5.30-6.30pm, allowing people to participate from home. Junior sessions run on Saturday mornings during term time, 10-11am at John Bunyan Sports & Fitness. To register interest, please contact Olivia Flemons at olivia.flemons@bedford.gov.uk
Beyond Limits is coordinated by Bedford Borough Council’s Sports Development Team and funded by Public Health. The Bedford Blues Foundation delivers the junior sessions with support from the Harpur Trust. The programme has been developed in partnership with the community through consultation to ensure activities reflect participants’ preferences and needs.
For further information and to learn how to get involved, please visit www.bedford.gov.uk/BeyondLimits