WSA attend CIMSPA Conference 2025

The WSA were delighted to attend the CIMSPA Conference 2025 in Leicester last week.

The Connecting the Dots Conference brought together leaders, practitioners, and changemakers from across the sector to explore how to unite efforts and amplify impact.

This year, CIMSPA we’re connecting the dots between:

Prevention and recovery – Exploring how the sector supports the nation’s health, from preventing long-term conditions to aiding recovery and rehabilitation.

Physical inactivity and economic inactivity – Tackling inactivity not just as a health issue, but as a key driver of disengagement with work and learning and economic strain, showcasing how our sector professionals are part of the solution.

Social cohesion and inclusion – Demonstrating how our workforce is the conduit for stronger, more connected communities, breaking down barriers and unlocking opportunity for all.

The WSA were pleased to host an Exhibition Stand at the Conference and also support the networking zone to enable colleagues to collaborate. It was a fantastic opportunity to promote the WSA’s DBS service for sport & leisure also – a vital part of safeguarding and welfare policies for all organisations present at the conference.

There were an array of engaging keynotes, expert panels, and practical workshops throughout the day.

Will Watt, founder of State of Life, discussed how to prove the impact that sport and physical activity has on physical and mental wellbeing, as well as reducing pressure on health and social care.

Dr Nighat Arif GP & Broadcaster gave a highly engaging and amusing take on how sport, physical activity and the wellbeing sector can tackle some of the UK’s most pressing challenges: improving health, reducing inequalities and creating a more active nation.

And finally, Matt Hampson OBE, former England U21 rugby player and Founder of the Matt Hampson Foundation, gave a powerful presentation. The Matt Hampson Foundation, supports people who have sustained life-changing injuries, particularly through sport. At the heart of this is the Get Busy Living Centre in Leicestershire, where beneficiaries access expert physiotherapy, counselling, wellbeing services and, crucially, the support of specialist personal trainers and physical activity practitioners who help them rebuild strength, independence, and confidence.

The WSA would like to thank Tara Dillon and colleagues at CIMSPA for an enlightening and though provoking conference, as well as the many other speakers and partners that added great value to the day! It was wonderful to see so many colleagues engaging and connecting the dots throughout.