Welcome to the latest issue of your BPL newsletter!
We’re enjoying seeing the first signs of Spring in the air and are getting ready for Easter with events for all the family to enjoy over the holidays.
It’s been a full-on start to 2024 for BPL, with the launch of our new website and discussions about plans to celebrate our milestone 25th birthday – we can’t wait to share more about that soon!
We’re also working with partners to create a major health and wellbeing project in Barnsley, which we’re really excited about. We are continuing to be a force for good, supporting events in our local communities and working with staff and members to raise money for causes close to our hearts.
Read on to find out more…
Out and About
BPL staff members Laurie and Tracey enjoyed meeting attendees at a wedding fair at Pontefract Racecourse.
The pair were spreading the word about what’s on offer at Your Space Pontefract, as well as handing out free day passes to stand visitors so they can try the club out for themselves.
Our community health team held a free nutrition workshop in partnership with Community Shop in Athersley.
Those who dropped in enjoyed a quiz and games, as well as getting advice on healthy eating and nutrition.
The session was a chance to gain valuable feedback from customers about the work we’re doing at the site and in the local community and what they would like to see in the future.
We were proud to be involved in the Poverty Action Barnsley Forum, where we had the opportunity to showcase how BPL is actively supporting individuals with limited means to engage in physical activity.
It was a really inspiring event, learning about the hard work of volunteers and services across the borough and exchanging ideas on how we can help our community.
Good luck to BPL swimming teacher Rob Blackburn, who is raising money for Barnsley Hospital Charity in May by swimming in Derwent Water during the Keswick Mountain Festival.
Rob has raised over £11,700 for charity over the past 10 years and hopes to pass the £12,000 mark this year.
Have you seen the exciting news about our involvement in a major new project in Barnsley?
We’ve collaborated with local organisations to transform parts of the Alhambra Shopping Centre into a community health and wellbeing hub.
As part of the plans, we will be delivering a Your Space Feel Good Hub – a fun, friendly and welcoming space offering a variety of health, fitness and wellbeing activities.
BPL Chief Executive Michael Hirst said: “Our purpose is to help the people of Barnsley feel good and we’re all really excited about the innovative Your Space Feel Good Hub which we plan to bring to the Alhambra.”
The Scheme is a community initiative which provides a welcoming and secure environment for individuals who may feel vulnerable or in need of assistance.
Thank you to our local community for your continued trust and support.
We’re delighted to have achieved the Water Wellbeing Accreditation from Swim England.
The scheme is open to any pool and offers resources, training and support to help staff better understand the customer experience and support the needs of people with long-term health conditions.
BPL Development Manager Simon Ferrarelli said: “We’re passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of our local communities and offering the best possible experience for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of being physically active in the water.”
A big well done to Your Space Bircotes’ lifeguard Hannah, who recently completed the Retford Half Marathon.
Hannah came first in the U20s age category, finishing in an incredible time of 1hr, 43 mins.
We held an unforgettable day at Barnsley Metrodome when over 300 Barnsley FC fans gathered for a meet and greet with players Barry Cotter and Donovan Pines.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us for this fantastic event!
Pupils from local schools had a great day at the Barnsley Metrodome when they took part in the Panathlon Aqua Festival.
Thanks to the participating schools, volunteer swim teachers, aqua leaders and Metrodome staff for making the event possible.
This year, BPL will celebrate its 25th-anniversary milestone!
We have a lot planned to mark this special occasion, so keep an eye on our website and social media pages, where we will be sharing more details and revealing how you can get involved.
Now that’s something to feel good about!
Uncategorised
We are thrilled to introduce our newly upgraded cycle space, featuring 18 cutting-edge Technogym group cycle bikes at Your Space Royston.
Seamlessly connect your workout with the Your Space app to track progress, set goals, and elevate your fitness journey.
It’s not just a room; it’s your personal path to a healthier, happier you!
Ready to pedal into the future? Book your studio cycling class now through the Your Space app.
Special Offer: Through February, non-members can try any fitness group class for only £3. T&Cs apply.
BPL swimming teacher Robert Blackburn is celebrating 10 years of charity fundraising – so far raising over £11,700 for causes close to his heart and recently receiving a special award.
Robert teaches, on average, around 450 pupils a week, ranging from babies right through to adults.
His charity work started back in 2013 when one of his friends was diagnosed with cancer and Robert decided to fundraise for Macmillan Cancer Support to say thank you for the help his friend had received.
He raised money by taking on a sponsored swim at the Metrodome; swimming a mile a day for three weeks, which is equivalent to the width of the English Channel.
Each time, he’s been supported by his loved ones, work colleagues, parents of the kids in his swimming lessons and local businesses, including sponsor Triple M Vehicles Ltd who have helped to cover his costs.
Robert said: “I can’t thank everyone enough. From the support I’ve had from BPL to the parents of the kids I’ve taught to swim and the businesses who have helped me raise sponsorship money.
“I wouldn’t be able to carry on with what I do, year in and year out, without them.”
Robert’s commitment to making a difference was recently recognised at the Proud of Barnsley Awards where he was presented with the trophy for Charity Fundraiser of the Year.
He added: “I loved the awards evening. It was nice to get the recognition, although I didn’t do it for that, and it felt brilliant to win.
“I didn’t expect it, so I was over the moon.”
Robert’s next challenge is taking on another outdoor swim at Derwent Water, as part of the Keswick Mountain Festival later this year, where he hopes to pass the £12,000 mark on his fundraising.
He added: “While I’m swimming, I’ve always got that person in my head who I’m doing it for.
“I won’t stop until I physically can’t do it anymore. I love it and I’m already looking forward to the next one.”
Uncategorised
Happy New Year, and welcome to the latest edition of the BPL newsletter!
Thank you to everyone who chose to celebrate with us over the festive period.
We loved seeing you for our themed music nights, afternoon teas, Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
After a busy end to 2023, we’re already looking ahead to what this year has in store, as well as rounding up the latest happenings and events across our sites.
Read on to find out more!
Out and About
We were proud to be among the sponsors for Barnsley Hospital Charity’s Shine Bright for Barnsley Christmas campaign, attending a special celebration event at the hospital.
Local businesses, schools and individuals sponsored stars to show their support for the campaign.
Some of our team recently attended the ukActive Awards in Leeds, where BPL was nominated for the Marketing Campaign Award.
After winning this award in 2022, it was great to make the finals once again and receive a Highly Commended mention from the judges, recognising the ongoing success of our What’s Your Space? Marketing campaign.
Success stories
Congratulations to BPL swimming teacher Robert Blackburn, who was named Charity Fundraiser of the Year at the Proud of Barnsley Awards!
For the last 10 years, Robert has completed sponsored swims to raise money for a range of causes close to his heart, including Barnsley Hospital’s neonatal unit, Macmillan Cancer Support and Alzheimer’s Society.
So far, he’s raised over £11,700 and hopes to pass the £12,000 mark this year.
It’s been a busy time for Bassetlaw Swim Squad, who recently hosted a successful open meet with the help of Your Space teams at Worksop and Kilton.
Also, well done to BSS’ Jacob Hodkinson, who won gold at the East Midlands Short Course Championships.
The latest BPL ‘elf kick’ initiative saw more staff than ever taking part across our sites.
The six-week challenge encourages a commitment to healthy lifestyles and also measures weight, BMI and blood pressure at week one and then again with a final appointment at week six.
Charity Events
Our fantastic staff and members celebrated the spirit of giving over Christmas.
There were many examples of generosity across our sites, including at Your Space Metrodome, where selection boxes and chocolates were collected to donate to the children of families undergoing treatment at Barnsley Hospice.
Meanwhile, Your Space Hoyland raised over £1,800 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, as well as a huge donation of toys. Your Space Dearneside collected donations of toys and gifts for the Salvation Army’s Christmasappeal, and head office staff donated to the Clothing Bank UK.
What’s On?
Unlock your winter wellness journey at Your Space!
Are you ready to get your fitness journey started in 2024?
At Your Space, we’re more than just a gym. Step into our clubs and experience a warm and friendly atmosphere where our dedicated team goes above and beyond to help you reach your goals.
Join us for free this winter and save £25 using promo code SAVE25
Local people of all ages have been enjoying the wide range of activities on offer at Dorothy Hyman Sports Centre.
Over the past few months, the centre has launched sessions including Glow in the Dark Dodgeball, Funetics and Kurling, which have all proved popular.
Community Sports Development Officer Connor Pickles has been working with the local community to identify opportunities for different activity sessions and gain valuable feedback.
Are you ready to make a splash and win some fantastic prizes?
Take part in our interactive Swim to Win game, where the fastest and most skilled swimmers can be crowned champions and claim fantastic rewards, such as a discount on your next visit to the Metrodome Waterpark!
Join us for FREE this winter and save £25 using promo code: SAVE25.
At Your Space, we’re more than a gym – we’re a community dedicated to personal well-being and social responsibility.
“Experience the ultimate fitness journey with our “Price for Life” promise, where your monthly joining price becomes your lifelong price – no surprises, just constant value. Stay committed, and let your journey be as rewarding as your results.
We understand that everyone has unique goals, and that’s why we’re here to work alongside you to turn your personal aspirations into reality. As a proud not-for-profit organisation, every penny we earn goes back into enhancing facilities and services, ensuring you have the best experience on your fitness journey. We’re not just committed to making you feel good we’re determined to make our local communities healthier and happier in everything we do!
Step into our clubs and experience a warm and friendly atmosphere where our dedicated team goes beyond the ordinary – they become your fitness friends for life! Embrace a community where connections are made and well-being is celebrated.
At Your Space, our clubs are not just fitness spaces; they’re social hubs where friendships last a lifetime, especially in our classes. Whether you’re diving into the pool or enjoying a fitness class, make a splash into your perfect wellness day!
Turn up the heat this winter or go with the flow because, at any age or ability, Your Space has the perfect environment for you. Join us for a knockout combo of friendship and fun for all, and let this winter be your season of well-being!
Dorothy Hyman Sports Centre is providing greater opportunities for local people to try out new activities – and develop their coaching and leadership skills.
The centre in Cudworth is offering a range of sessions, including Glow in the Dark Dodgeball and Kurling, as well as karate, cricket and goalball sessions for blind and visually impaired children.
Staff have also been working in partnership with England Athletics to deliver Funetics.
These are fun, engaging activity sessions designed to encourage kids aged 4-11 into athletics and create potential pathways for them to progress through Barnsley Athletics Club, which is based at Dorothy Hyman Sports Centre.
The project also linked up with Barnsley College to offer interested students the chance to improve their coaching skills, supported by tutors from England Athletics.
Connor Pickles joined BPL earlier this year in the newly created role of Community Sports Development Officer.
Connor’s remit involves identifying opportunities to deliver different activity sessions, including those which will encourage local kids to be more active.
He works with the community to gain valuable feedback on what they might enjoy and help to break down any barriers to participation.
He said: “As a centre which is such a big part of the community, it’s important that we’re not just offering a gym and that there are opportunities to do more activities, especially for kids.
“Athletics, for example, is a great way to get young people involved in sports and learn new fundamental skills, such as throwing and running. These can then also be useful in other sports.”
Connor is also looking at ways to further strengthen links with local schools to be able to go in and speak to pupils and deliver activity sessions.
He added: “I’m really enjoying the role and helping to grow the reputation of what BPL can offer in terms of community sport.
“It’s been amazing so far. Everyone has been so welcoming, and I’m excited for what’s to come in the future.”
Uncategorised
‘Your Portal’ is part of a new Customer Relations Management (CRM) system aimed at enhancing communication and data management for both members and staff. This upgrade ensures a more efficient experience for all.
With Your Portal, you gain access to a whole load of features:
Book Classes: Whether you’re looking to try out a new fitness class or continue with your favourite one, Your Portal has got you covered. Book classes around your schedule.
Receive Communications: Stay in the know with all the latest updates, announcements, and news from us. Your Portal ensures you never miss out on any important communication.
Manage Your Data: Your Portal provides a secure environment for you to manage your personal data. You have complete control over your information.
At Your Space, we’re committed to providing you with the best possible experience. Our ongoing efforts to improve systems and services are guided by your valuable feedback.
Below, you’ll find essential FAQs addressing, how to sign up, what’s changing, recent updates, features, and how you can actively participate in shaping the future of Your Portal.
If you have further questions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
Thank you for being part of the Your Space gang.
‘Your Portal’ FAQs
We’ve introduced ‘Your Portal’ as part of a new customer relations management (CRM) system to improve communication and data management for members and staff, ensuring a more efficient experience for all.
This initiative is in line with our charity status and will allow us to decrease payments to other third-party providers. By doing so, we can reinvest more into our service and products at our sites, furthering our commitment to the communities we serve.
We’re committed to the ongoing enhancement of the portal, and as a valued member, we welcome your feedback to refine our systems. Your insights will help us to continually improve and direct more resources towards our mission. Have suggestions? Reach out to our team for further discussion.”
No, class bookings will be exclusively available on the portal. This change ensures more effective data management and communication between ourselves and members. While class bookings will transition to the portal, you’ll still retain access to all other features on the Your Space app and you will also be able to access ‘Your Portal from the top tile on the homepage. For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out to our team.
To register for the portal, check your email for a registration link sent to the address associated with your membership. If you haven’t received it, contact our team for a resend.
Click on the link and use your registered email. A verification code will be emailed to you; enter it on your device. After successful verification, you’ll land on a contacts page. Provide your details—name, address, telephone number, DOB, and email. Ensure you use the information on our system to avoid duplicate accounts. If unsure about the data in our CRM system, reach out to our team for assistance in completing your portal registration.
Follow these steps to book classes on the portal:
Login: Use your email address and password to log in.
Navigation: Click on the three lines at the top left and choose “Bookings.”
Site Selection: Pick your site.
Class Selection: Choose your desired class.
Date Range: Select a date range, up to 7 days in advance. Pick a start and end date (e.g., 6th to 10th December) to view available classes.
Add to Cart: Click the + button to add your chosen class to your cart.
Checkout: Proceed to checkout and confirm your booking.
Confirmation: A message will confirm your successful booking. Find details in the “My Bookings” section.
That’s it! You’re all set for your class.
Update on Booking Process Improvement:
We’ve carefully reviewed recent member feedback regarding the booking process and are actively working on streamlining it for a better experience. Rest assured, we’ll keep you informed once we have an update. We appreciate your collaboration in enhancing the bookings portal and thank you for your valuable input so far.
Classes will be visible on the bookings portal up to 7 days in advance, allowing members to book their preferred sessions. Based on valuable member feedback, class cancellations can be made on the portal up to 2 hours before the scheduled start time. Providing a reason for the cancellation in the portal ensures that no strike is recorded on the CRM system.
We acknowledge member feedback received since the portal’s launch and have communicated with our development team to incorporate an up-to-date timetable and daily class list on the portal.
This improvement aims to facilitate easier class bookings for the week. We’ll keep you informed about this change through various channels, including digital screens, the Your Space app, and our social media platforms. Stay tuned for the upcoming update.
With our updated CRM system and bookings portal, members can join a waiting list when classes are full. If a spot becomes available due to a cancellation, the system will automatically notify members on the waiting list in sequential order. You’ll receive an email notification with a 1-hour window to book the available spot. If unclaimed, the reservation will expire, and the next person on the waiting list will be notified of the available class slot. This ensures a fair and efficient process for filling class spaces.
Your Space values member input and has conducted two feedback sessions already. We’re eager to involve members in shaping the future of the portal. If you’re interested in participating, we’re establishing regular meetings in the new year to gather insights and ensure we meet all members’ needs.
If you’d like to volunteer for this collaborative effort, please contact our team, and we’ll reach out to you soon. Your contribution is integral to our ongoing journey of improvement.
We also have exciting news for our current members!
Join the Black Friday Fitness challenge using the Your Space app and have a shot at winning a free one-month membership for a friend or family member. We’ll be holding prize draws at each club.
Black Friday Day Pass T&C’s*
New customers only Eligible for over 16’s only (ID upon redeeming Black Friday day pass required) Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer The Black Friday day pass can only be redeemed once All activities are subject to availability Your Space Mansfield* and Barnsley Metrodome Water Park is NOT included The offer cannot be exchanged for any monetary value A health commitment statement must be completed before your first activity All offers can be withdrawn at any time
Uncategorised
Welcome to the latest issue of the BPL newsletter!
There has been a lot going on across the organisation – from charity fundraising events to swimming successes and a national award win – which we’re excited to share more about.
Spooky season is also in full swing, and we have plenty of fun happening in our venues to keep all the family entertained during half-term.
And it’s never too early to be thinking about Christmas!
Whether you’re in charge of planning a Christmas party, a New Year’s Eve outing or fancy trying out a festive afternoon tea, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to find out more…
Success Stories:
Our BPL Healthy Lifestyle Advisors enjoyed attending a disability engagement event in Barnsley recently, where they put on a fitness class for adults with learning disabilities and their carers.
They were also joined by Community Sports Development Officer Connor Pickles, who promoted the Wheels for All group, which is held at Dorothy Hyman Sports Centre.
We were thrilled to pick up an award at the recent Employer Brand Management Awards, beating off strong competition from the likes of the BBC, Natwest and Total Fitness.
Our entry – in partnership with brand design consultancy WPA Pinfold – won Gold in the Best Alignment of the Employer Value Proposition with Corporate Brand Values category.
Head of Marketing and Branding at BPL Rachel Rinkcavage said: “We’re delighted to win this award, particularly being up against such a strong group of finalists in this category.”
After winning this award last year, we’re once again shortlisted in the Marketing Campaign category at the 2023 ukactive Awards.
BPL has been named as a finalist in recognition of our successful What’s Your Space? Campaign – a digitally focused membership campaign designed to attract new members to our Your Space fitness sites.
There’s not long to go until we find out if we’re winners!
The awards ceremony takes place on 26th October at the New Dock Royal Armouries in Leeds.
Barnsley Performance Squads had two swimmers attend the Swim England National Summer Meet in August.
Cody Ingram held his place on rankings for a second year running in the 200m butterfly, while alum swimmer Daniel Menzer secured 5th place in the 1500m freestyle.
The squad goes into the start of the new season with more Yorkshire Winter Championship qualifiers than in 2022, with 39 qualifiers and counting.
For Bassetlaw, Rachel Webb competed in four events – setting three season’s best times – Jennifer Walker bagged a gold and a silver in the girls’ 15 years 800m and 1500m freestyle, Samuel Walker debuted at this level, finishing just outside the top 10, and Layne Keyworth contested the finals in all four of his events.
BPL has successfully collaborated with Funetics to help local children participate in Funetics sessions, enabling young adults to start their coaching and leadership journeys.
The partnership has been designed to introduce kids to athletics in a fun and engaging way, as well as create coaching and development opportunities locally.
COMMUNITY Leisure trust BPL has seen off strong competition from the likes of the BBC, Natwest and Total Fitness to win a top award.
In partnership with brand design consultancy WPA Pinfold, the trust’s entry won Gold in the Best Alignment of the Employer Value Proposition with Corporate Brand Values category at the Employer Brand Management Awards.
BPL, which operates 10 leisure facilities across South and West Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire, launched its Employer Value Proposition last year in order to help staff feel more engaged with the trust’s brand values and better support them on their employment journey.
The EVP aligns with the award-winning brand work BPL and WPA Pinfold previously partnered on – maximising its impact and effectiveness.
Head of Marketing and Branding at BPL Rachel Rinkavage said: “We created our EVP to strengthen our offering to employees across the whole organisation from the moment they join.
“As part of this, we’ve implemented a new onboarding and induction process for new starters to help them feel more supported in their roles and gain a better understanding of our values.
“We’ve also created our ‘Feel Good’ Awards, which are based on our brand values and recognise and reward effort and achievement within our teams.
“Since we launched the EVP, feedback from staff tells us they feel more engaged with our brand values and are proud to work for BPL.
“We’re delighted to have been recognised with this award, particularly being up against such a strong group of finalists in this category.”
Creative Director and Partner at WPA PinfoldRichard Hurst added: “We are very proud of this Gold award for the Best Alignment of the Employer Value Proposition with Corporate Brand Values for our work in partnership with BPL.
“BPL are proof that internal alignment is not only crucial but that it’s transformational for organisations.
“They are an example to other companies that have recently got it wrong – you simply can’t stand for different things inside and outside of your company. Customer and employee strategies must align.
“BPL deserve every success. We are so very proud of the work we have done in the past and what is to come in the future.”
The awards, which took place at the London Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel, celebrate creativity, innovation and commitment to employer branding, with trophies handed out in over 20 categories.
