The Richard Moore Sports CIC

Making Multi-Sports Truly Inclusive: Tennis for All Abilities in Leicester

Type of programme

The Richard Moore Sports CIC runs weekly youth and adult Learning Disabilities Sports Clubs in Leicester, providing safe, inclusive and accessible opportunities for people with additional needs to be active, social and healthy. With support from the LTA’s Open Court programme, tennis has become a regular part of their multi-sports offer, delivered at least twice a month alongside other activities.

Example activities

Tennis sessions are delivered as part of the regular multi-sports clubs for both youth and adults. Adapted equipment such as softer balls, shorter rackets and floor markers makes the game accessible for all abilities. Sessions are designed to build fundamental skills including balance, coordination, teamwork and communication, while keeping tennis fun and inclusive.

Each session is led by experienced coaches supported by volunteers, ensuring participants receive guidance and encouragement at their own pace. One participant who initially lacked confidence to join team games has since become an enthusiastic helper, even supporting others to learn new skills – their parent described tennis as their child’s “favourite part of the week.”

What works

The introduction of tennis into the programme has given over 40 individuals with learning disabilities the opportunity to play regularly, many for the first time. Participants have shown clear improvements in coordination, movement and confidence. Families have reported that children and young people look forward to sessions, with noticeable boosts in self-esteem and happiness.

The consistency of delivery has been key – tennis has moved from being a one-off activity to a valued, recurring part of the wider programme. This reliability has helped build familiarity and trust among families and participants, reinforcing that tennis can truly be a sport for everyone.

What we have learnt

Transport remains a barrier for some families, leading to occasional fluctuations in attendance. Recruiting new participants requires ongoing outreach and partnerships with local schools and community organisations. Volunteers also need regular training and support to continue delivering high-quality adapted sessions that meet participants’ varied needs.

Contact Details

Scott Moore 

therichardmoorecic@gmail.com

07400081918