Caerphilly Tennis Club has launched a locally run inclusion project in partnership with SENSE Cymru and supported through the LTA Open Court Programme and Tennis Wales, creating regular adapted tennis sessions for people with complex disabilities.
Local partnership delivers tailored activity
The sessions, held at the club in Caerphilly, combine adapted tennis drills with sensory games, movement exercises and simple challenges. Activities use modified equipment including larger rackets, softer balls and sensory resources so participants can take part in ways that fit their abilities.
"We are incredibly proud to be working alongside SENSE Cymru to make tennis accessible for more people in our community. The support from Tennis Wales and the LTA Open Court programme has enabled us to provide meaningful opportunities for disabled participants to enjoy tennis in a way that works for them,"
The initiative aims to lower barriers to sport and leisure by providing an environment where people who might never have considered tennis previously can试 practise skills, make new friends and build confidence through regular activity.
What the provision looks like
- Regular, scheduled sessions at Caerphilly Tennis Club combining sensory play and adapted tennis.
- Use of specialist kit such as oversized rackets and lower-bounce balls to suit participants' needs.
- Programming designed to promote physical activity, communication and social engagement.
The impact is already visible among participants. Staff and volunteers report increased engagement, improved motor skills and growing social connections for those taking part. The project is part of the wider Open Court initiative, which seeks to expand disability tennis across Wales and the UK by supporting venues to offer inclusive opportunities.
Partners and roles
| Partner | Role |
|---|---|
| Caerphilly Tennis Club | Host and deliverer of sessions |
| SENSE Cymru | Specialist support for people with complex disabilities |
| LTA Open Court Programme & Tennis Wales | Funding and wider initiative support |
Local clubs interested in setting up similar activity can request free adaptive equipment through the Open Court scheme, making it easier to introduce fully accessible sessions.
For Caerphilly residents the programme represents more than a new leisure option: it is a practical step towards a more inclusive community offer, where sport becomes a means of improving health, communication and social connection for people with complex needs. As the project continues, organisers say they will monitor participation and outcomes with the aim of sustaining and potentially expanding provision in the county borough.
