For many people across Wales, gymnastics is more than just a sport, it’s a source of confidence, routine, friendship and belonging. But when financial pressures hit, gymnastics can become unaffordable. That’s why Welsh Gymnastics created the Access Gymnastics Bursary, to support members and clubs when money becomes a barrier to participation.
The bursary offers short-term financial help to individuals struggling to stay involved in gymnastics or to clubs trying to bring the sport to communities where it otherwise wouldn’t be accessible. While the support may be temporary, the difference it makes is often lasting.
“My daughter has attended VGA for many years. She is currently 8 years old and has a diagnosis of Autism and Cerebral palsy- a left hemiplegia. As a family, we have invested money into ensuring her progress, both physically and mentally, evolves by paying for extracurricular lessons such as gymnastics, swimming, dance and recently cheer. I am keen for this to continue. Unfortunately, in December 2024 I (her mother) have been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. It has metastasised to bones and liver. This means it’s incurable and my prognosis is uncertain. I have been receiving chemotherapy since January, and I am unable to work. I am a primary school teacher, and my pay is due to reduce drastically. A bursary would help our financial situation and ensure my daughter can continue the activities she loves”.
– Parent, Valleys Gymnastics Academy
This family was awarded £168 from the Access Gymnastics fund to help cover 6 months of gymnastics session fees and keep the child in gymnastics.
“I am a single mother to 3 children. I receive no help from their fathers at all. Every month I am winging it so my children can have some sort of a life. My daughter and now youngest son both share a love for gymnastics. Between the kits, the travel expenses and the competition entry fees I have spent a fortune that I really can’t afford but have felt that I had no other choice. I have gained some debts due to this but I want my kids to have hobbies and enjoy it. This bursary would make a massive difference to mine and my kids lives as it would enable me to clear the debts and continue to give them a better life along with being able to afford food and the other essentials”.
– Parent, Kestrel Gymnastics Club
This family was awarded £75 from the Access Gymnastics Fund to help cover the cost of training fees.
The Access Gymnastics Bursary is open to current Welsh Gymnastics members, including gymnasts, parents, coaches, volunteers, and clubs. Individuals can apply for up to £250, and clubs can apply for up to £500. Grants can help cover costs like monthly fees, travel, kit, or start-up expenses for new community programmes.
Applications are accepted three times a year, in February, June, and November, and assessed on a case-by-case basis. With £5,000 available annually, each grant is designed to offer a small but timely boost. It’s not ongoing funding, just a bit of help when it’s needed most.
If you believe no one should miss out on gymnastics because of financial barriers, you can help.
Donate to the Access Gymnastics Bursary here.
Your support will help us say “yes” to more families and clubs across Wales, and keep the door to gymnastics open to everyone.