UNSUNG heroes making a difference across Basildon are being urged to step forward for a groundbreaking new scheme offering free support from local leisure centres. 

Everyone Active, which runs Basildon Sporting Village, Wickford Swim and Fitness Centre and Eversley Leisure Centre in partnership with Basildon Borough Council; wants to support projects which are tackling local issues and changing lives. 

The award-winning operator launched its Community Champions scheme on Thursday, May 1, 2025, with the aim of building stronger communities and recognising the dedication of those who go above and beyond. 

People involved in mentoring, promoting health and wellbeing, supporting inclusivity or leading environmental or cultural projects are being encouraged to apply. It can be a charitable initiative or a project that is small or targeted. 

Successful applicants will secure valuable use of facilities within their local leisure centres, to help them carry out these projects. Everyone Active will raise awareness of this work to strengthen connections, encourage civic engagement and foster a culture of giving back. 

Those selected for the Community Champions scheme are also in with a chance of being shortlisted for the Champions Awards in autumn of this year. 

Meanwhile, Everyone Active also launched its all-new Colleague Champions scheme, which will recognise and reward Everyone Active employees who consistently go above and beyond in their roles.  

It will celebrate the provision of exceptional customer service, innovative ideas, teamwork, leadership and dedication to Everyone Active's values.  

Shaun Beagle, Everyone Active's area contract manager, said: "We are hugely excited to launch the Community Champions scheme, which we hope will make a real difference in Basildon.

"We want to highlight the work of everyday heroes who are changing people's lives and inspiring others to make a positive impact in their communities. 

"We encourage local people, community projects and charitable initiatives to get their applications in so we can support the fantastic work that you do." 

Cllr Aidan McGurran, Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure, said: "As a council we have always supported Everyone Active's Sporting Champions scheme which has seen it back over 2,000 athletes across the country. With the two new initiatives we will also offer our backing both in our workplaces and the community.

"Each scheme plays a vital role to inspire active, healthy and connected communities."  

Cllr Jack Ferguson, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport, Children & Young People, added: "I welcome both schemes as I believe they will have a lasting impact on our communities, as local projects and groups can benefit from the free space and support available at the centres.

"We have a number of Basildon residents employed by Everyone Active across a number of centres, so this is an opportunity for them to be recognised and celebrated."

Everyone Active also runs the Sporting Champions scheme, which empowers aspiring athletes to achieve their full potential through access to state-of-the-art training facilities and invaluable mentoring support from Olympians and Paralympians. 

Since its inception in 2016, the scheme has elevated the sporting careers of more than 6,000 athletes by providing them with free access to Everyone Active's 240-plus leisure centres nationwide.