Women and Girls Like Us

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Women and girls across Essex face unique barriers when it comes to being active. From confidence and time pressures, to cultural expectations, past experiences, and the belief that “sport” isn’t designed for them. The Women and Girls Like Us campaign aims to challenge these perceptions.

Our campaign shines a light on the real experiences, voices, and journeys of women and girls across our county. We celebrate movement in all its forms. Whether you’re taking your very first step or returning after some time away, we’re here to make getting active feel welcoming, flexible, and judgement‑free.

Women and Girls Like Us is evolving with a new campaign theme: Wellbeing Without Barriers, a refreshed focus that puts how movement makes you feel at the centre of everything we do. For some, activity can feel competitive, intimidating, or simply not designed for them.

This new theme directly responds to these challenges, shifting the narrative towards support, safety, honesty, and improving wellbeing. This is a campaign that meets women and girls where they are, not where they’re expected to be.

Key Principles

Breaking down barriers

Identifying and overcoming obstacles such as stereotypes, lack of opportunities, or confidence issues that prevent women and girls from engaging in sports or physical activity.

Inspiring participation

Encouraging women and girls to rediscover the joy and benefits of staying active, promoting both mental and physical wellbeing.

Creating a supportive community

Bringing together National Governing Bodies, organisations, and individuals to cultivate an environment where women and girls feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to participate.

Changing perceptions

Challenging societal norms and promoting a more inclusive view of sports and physical activity as being for everyone, regardless of age, gender or ability.