How Bay's clubs can make sure sport is for ALL

A special meeting of Sport Torbay is being held next week to make sure amateur sports clubs are equipped to welcome people from all walks of life into sport.

'Supporting Neurodivergent Athletes and Coaches' will be the theme of the session.

People who are neurodivergent differ in the way their brain functions due to conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia and others.

They face challenges due to how they think, learn, and engage with the world, but they can also have unique special skills in areas like memory, math, and pattern recognition.

Liz Day is an expert in this particular field and founded the Collectively Diverse Community Interest Company in the Bay.

She will be hosting the Sport Torbay workshop to explain to clubs, organisations and groups, how they can open their doors to Neurodivergent athletes and coaches 

This introductory training session is designed to help sports club administrators, coaches, trainers, and volunteers better understand and support neurodivergent individuals within their clubs. It aims to foster a more inclusive, understanding, and empowering sports environment across Torbay. 

Liz says: "I set up Collectively Diverse because I’m passionate about making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

"Over the years, I’ve seen how understanding and inclusion can transform individuals, families, communities, and workplaces. I wanted to create a platform where I could share my expertise and experiences to help others foster environments where everyone feels understood, valued and supported.  

"My journey - from teaching and community engagement to specialising in neurodiversity and mental health - showed me the gaps in support and understanding that so many people face.

"I founded Collectively Diverse to bridge those gaps, offering tailored training and practical resources to empower others to create inclusive spaces where diversity is celebrated, and wellbeing is prioritised.  

"Collectively Diverse is my way of combining my personal insights, academic studies and professional knowledge to break down barriers, celebrate strengths, and help others build a world where everyone can thrive. 

"Our mission is to benefit neurodivergent individuals, their families, educators, employers, and community groups through tailored training, workshops, and initiatives. We are committed to fostering inclusivity, increasing understanding of neurodiversity, and supporting mental health and wellbeing."

Liz is an experienced trainer and facilitator, passionate about mental health, neurodiversity, and cultivating a safe environment for all.

She began her career as a teacher with a specialism in PE, drawing on her background as a former county-level gymnast and lifelong love of sport.

This shaped her inclusive teaching approach and continues to influence her work today—sport remains central to her identity and wellbeing.

Transitioning into communications, Liz contributed to high-profile projects such as the successful London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games bid, focusing on community engagement and stakeholder relationships.

This developed her skills in building trust, fostering collaboration, and facilitating meaningful initiatives.

Over the past decade, Liz has specialised in neurodiversity and education, working with award-winning businesses, families, schools, and national charities, including the British Dyslexia Association.

She combines her personal and professional insights to share strategies for creating inclusive living, learning, and working environments.

Liz regularly appears on BBC Radio 5 Live. In 2024, Liz completed a master’s in psychology at the University of Exeter, with her thesis exploring mental health literacy in young people.

This academic achievement and her practical expertise ensure her training is evidence-based and highly relevant. Liz’s engaging style and commitment to empowerment make her a trusted advocate and leader in mental health, education, and neurodiversity.

The Sport Torbay meeting is being held at Torquay Athletic Rugby Club Recreation Ground clubhouse on Torquay seafront on Tuesday November 4 between 7pm and 9pm.

Clubs and individuals wishing to attend are asked to register with Sport Torbay secretary Nicci Tucker - secretary.sporttorbay@gmail.com

You are, however, also welcome to turn up on the night.