Enhanced sensory course for Run with Rich event supported by UKSPF
Last updated: 8/8/2025
Exciting new enhancements will be featured in a sensory course at an inclusive community sporting event, Run with Rich, with support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) allocated the grant funding to the Richard Whitehead Foundation to purchase new equipment for a 1-mile sensory course, to further enhance the experience for participants with new fun and engaging activities.
The new additions will engage volunteers and participants in creating sounds, smells and textures along the length of the course by using parachutes, instruments, bubbles, balloons, music, ribbons, and aromatherapy.
The course is designed especially for children, older people, and people with disabilities whose impairments or health conditions prevent them from undertaking a 5km course, which is also part of the event.
Run with Rich is a friendly and inclusive annual event that takes place at the National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, NG12 2LU on Saturday September 27 at 9am. Led by Paralympic Champion Richard Whitehead MBE, the event encourages everyone to ‘take part your way’, whether that is by running, walking, rolling, or cheering from the sidelines.
Participants can complete either a 5km course or 1-mile sensory course, providing an opportunity to engage people with disabilities, children, older people and their families in sport and recreational activity.
RBC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Business and Growth Cllr Abby Brennan visited Holme Pierrepont with Richard Whitehead MBE and Mayor of Rushcliffe Cllr John Cottee, who has nominated the Richard Whitehead Foundation as his Mayoral Charity for the year.
Richard Whitehead MBE said: “I'm looking forward to seeing as many people as possible at Run with Rich this year! This truly is a very special event, with everyone being able to take part in their own way and is fully accessible and inclusive for all.
“Run with Rich is designed for all abilities, and celebrates movement and bringing people together, I believe passionately that moving has so many physical and wellbeing benefits and taking part together makes a huge difference. Be part of this unique event and see you on 27 September!”
Cllr Brennan added: “We’re pleased to support the Richard Whitehead Foundation through UKSPF to support their fantastic Run with Rich event with additional sport activities and enhanced features for their 1-mile sensory run experience, helping to attract even more people of all abilities to the event and engage more in sport and recreation.
“Our Borough is a great place for sport, and we encourage everyone to get active and involved in sport and physical activity. It’s a great way to improve physical and mental health and reduce social isolation.
“This project will also help to create a further 10 volunteering opportunities for Rushcliffe residents so if anyone is interested in soaking up the atmosphere and helping out on the day, please get in touch with the Richard Whitehead Foundation team by emailing info@whitehead.foundation.”
Mayor of Rushcliffe Cllr John Cottee said: “I’m delighted to support the Richard Whitehead Foundation as my chosen charity for the year. Their work is truly inspiring, empowering people with disabilities through sport and inclusive initiatives.
“The annual Run with Rich event is a great example of one of his fantastic fundraising events with inclusive routes designed for all abilities, ensuring everyone can participate and feel part of something special.”
Run with Rich is the Richard Whitehead Foundation’s flagship fundraising event, founded in 2022, designed to unite communities and promote inclusivity through sport. To find out more visit the Richard Whitehead Foundation website.