Be Active Wales Funding Success for Flintshire District Target Sports Team

Flintshire District Target Sports Team is celebrating the success of its Be Active Wales Fund project, which has transformed the opportunities available to young people and volunteers across the district.

Thanks to funding from Be Active Wales, supported by The National Lottery, the team was able to purchase Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) rifles, pistols and supporting equipment. This investment has significantly enhanced the quality of target sports provision, allowing participants to access competition-standard equipment and follow a clear development pathway from introductory sessions through to regional and national competitions.

The project has directly benefited 25–35 young people and adults through regular coaching and training opportunities, with a further 70–100 participants gaining access to the equipment through district events and competitions. The new equipment has improved accessibility, particularly for participants with disclosed disabilities and those who may find traditional spring-powered equipment more physically demanding to use.

The funding has also strengthened the team’s volunteer workforce. More tutors and instructors have been trained, increasing the number of sessions that can be delivered safely and consistently. Several young people have progressed into volunteering and leadership roles, creating an inspiring pathway from participant to instructor.

Parents and participants have reported increased confidence, motivation and achievement. Access to higher-quality equipment has enabled individuals to develop technical skills more effectively, measure their progress and remain engaged in the sport for longer. The programme has also attracted interest from neighbouring Scout districts and other organisations, helping to extend the benefits across the wider community.

Looking ahead, Flintshire District Target Sports Team plans to continue developing tutors and coaches, strengthen athlete development pathways, expand outreach activities and explore opportunities to bring accessible target sports into even more communities.

Professor Terry Gleave, Lead Volunteer for the Flintshire District Target Sports Team, said:

“We are extremely grateful for the support provided through the Be Active Wales Fund. The funding has addressed an important gap in our provision and created lasting opportunities for young people, volunteers and the wider community. We would also like to thank The National Lottery for making this opportunity possible.”

Be Active Wales Fund – Next Funding Window Now Open

Organisations interested in applying for the next round of funding should note the following dates:

• Applications open: 9:00am, 8 July 2026
• Expression of Interest deadline: 9:00am, 11 September 2026
• Full application deadline: 4:00pm, 16 September 2026

For groups looking to increase participation, improve accessibility and develop community sport opportunities, the Be Active Wales Fund provides an excellent opportunity to turn ambition into reality. Please get in contact with us at [email protected]