For this case study, we hear directly from Scott’s Project Trust:
One of our most rewarding partnerships this year has been with the Scott’s Project Trust and Katie Bennett Tennis, made possible through funding from the Dan Maskell Tennis Trust.
The funding enabled us to launch weekly adapted tennis sessions at the Angel Centre, creating a fun, inclusive environment where adults with learning disabilities could learn new skills, build confidence and enjoy being active together. Led by tennis coach Katie Bennett, the sessions were focused on making tennis accessible for everyone, giving participants the opportunity to try something new, develop their skills and most importantly, have fun.
From the very first session, the enthusiasm was infectious. Participants encouraged one another, celebrated each other’s achievements and embraced every activity with huge smiles and plenty of laughter.
Support staff from the Scott’s Project Trust noticed the difference too. One member of staff told us:
“Our people loved playing tennis last week, they had so much fun! They’re looking forward to bringing some new faces along too. Thanks again to you and Katie for organising this opportunity for us.”
The feedback from participants themselves paints an even clearer picture of the impact the sessions have had.
Some simply talked about how much they enjoyed the games.
“I like doing lots of games, it’s good fun.”
Others spoke about the confidence they had gained.
“I like how they take their time with us to make sure we understand. They don’t judge us in any way.”
Many participants enjoyed learning new skills and challenging themselves.
“I enjoyed balancing the ball on the racket in different positions and how competitive it is.”
Perhaps one of our favourite comments was:
“Katie is lovely, like Serena Williams.”
Alongside these comments, the written feedback forms highlighted just how positive the experience had been.
Participants consistently told us they:
o enjoyed every session
o felt welcomed and included
o felt well supported by the coach
o learnt new tennis skills
o felt more confident playing tennis
o would like to continue playing in the future.
Many also told us they now feel:
o more confident
o more active
o happier
o healthier
o better at tennis
o and that they had made new friends through the sessions.
For many participants, this was their first experience of playing tennis in an environment where they felt completely supported to learn at their own pace. The sessions have become about far more than developing sporting skills. They have helped people build confidence, develop friendships, improve communication, increase physical activity and experience the sense of achievement that comes from learning something new.
The success of the programme has shown just how valuable inclusive community sport can be when the focus is on participation, encouragement and enjoyment. We are incredibly grateful to the Dan Maskell Tennis Trust for making these opportunities possible and look forward to continuing to develop the programme alongside Katie and the Scott’s Project Trust.
