Places Leisure
proud to be part of the Big Sister project
Are you aged between 9 and 15 and looking for a way into physical activity?
You're in the right place!
In 2022, we partnered up with Women in Sport to launch the Big Sister project, establishing a network of Big Sister ambassadors across our centres who empower and enable girls to enjoy sport, exercise, and physical activity during puberty.
After a successful rollout in 11 of our centres, we’re pleased to say that the Big Sister Project will be rolled out nationally this August for girls aged 9-15.
Sarah Roberts, Head of Fitness at Places Leisure says:
"Ensuring that the girls feel heard is really important, the programme was and is still shaped by the girls, for the girls.
We, as Places for People and Places Leisure feel part of something special and important with our teams involved in the programme so far being proud to be delivering such a game changing programme.
I am hugely proud of everyone who has played a part in the development and delivery of the Big Sister programme to date.
I hope you enjoy being part of the Big Sister movement – we really are changing girls lives for the better!”
What is Big Sister?
The programme helps girls aged 9-15 in target areas feel ‘sport ready’ by recruiting a network of ‘big sisters’ – peer leaders and supporters from sport, school and community organisations. Sport leaders will be trained on the emotional and physical barriers girls face.
As part of our commitment to helping girls get into activity we are offering a free membership to girls who meet the eligibility criteria*, or a 50% discounted membership for all other girls, which includes:
- Unlimited gym use during Junior Gym hours, which includes a 1:1 gym induction (11-15 year olds)
- Unlimited swimming
- Age appropriate group workout classes including exclusive We Move classes
- Friendly on-site team, to support you through your activity
- Free access to Places Leisure App and Virtual Studio which includes a Big Sister channel
*Membership is free for girls whose parent/carer/guardian can provide proof of eligibility: date of birth, student ID, corporate ID, Housing Benefit, income support, Job Seekers Allowance, Working Family Tax Credit, Disability Allowance, Carers Allowance, or Universal Credit. 50% discount from our Junior membership is offered to girls who can’t provide this proof. Proof of eligibility must be presented at centre within 14 days of joining.
Where can I get involved?
We know that not everyone has the same goals and not everyone progresses at the same speed, that's why our team are on hand to provide a friendly voice to talk to, a professional opinion to achieve the best results possible and a positive outlook to maintain that encouragement all the way.
The Big Sister membership is available at all of our centres. If you are interested in finding out more or signing up, please contact your local centre.
Please be aware that your parent/ guardian must attend site for your initial signing up process.