Storm Family Martial Arts Founder and Chief Instructor Digger Barnes was honoured to be invited to attend the very first meeting of the new Bracknell Forest Physical Activity, Sports and Leisure Forum this week.
Held at South Hill Park Arts Centre on Wednesday 23rd September, the inaugural forum brought together organisations, clubs and community representatives with a shared interest in improving physical activity, sport and leisure opportunities across Bracknell Forest.
The forum has been established as a collaborative network, with a vision of inspiring communities to lead more active and healthier lives and improving quality of life across the borough.
The first meeting included a welcome from Councillor Iskandar Jefferies, Chair of the forum, followed by a review of the forum’s Terms of Reference and presentations from Bracknell Forest Council, Involve Community Services and Get Berkshire Active.
For Digger, being invited to take part was a great opportunity to represent Storm Family Martial Arts and contribute to conversations about how sport and physical activity can positively impact individuals, families and communities.
“I was genuinely honoured to be invited to be part of the very first meeting of the Physical Activity, Sports and Leisure Forum.
Having spent so many years working with children, families and adults through martial arts, I know first-hand the positive impact that regular physical activity can have — not just physically, but on confidence, wellbeing, friendships and community.
What particularly excites me about this forum is the opportunity for different organisations to come together, share ideas and work collaboratively. No single organisation can do everything, but by working together we can create more opportunities for people to become active and improve their wellbeing.
I’m really looking forward to working with the other members of the forum and seeing what we can achieve together over the coming months and years.”
The forum’s objectives include increasing opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to become more active, promoting the benefits of physical activity, strengthening collaboration between local organisations and identifying barriers that prevent people from participating.
The ambition is for the forum to develop into a self-sustaining, member-led network, with shared ownership between the council, local clubs, charities and organisations.
As an organisation that has worked extensively with local families and communities, Storm Family Martial Arts is proud to be involved and looks forward to playing its part.
Digger and the Storm team are excited about the opportunities ahead and the chance to help make Bracknell Forest an even more active, healthy and connected community.
Developing Champions For Life 🥋
At Storm Family Martial Arts, we believe martial arts is about far more than learning to kick and punch. It’s about developing confidence, discipline, resilience, friendships and life skills that stay with our members for life.
And we’re proud to be part of the wider community helping people become healthier, more confident and more active.
