2025 FUNDING UPDATE: A RECORD YEAR FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT

As 2025 ends, the adidas Manchester Marathon and Manchester Half have supported a final round of community sport projects through the Trafford Moving Fund. This year, over £60,000 was raised, with £1 from every paid entry into each event helping Trafford Council fund local initiatives that strengthen Greater Manchester’s sporting legacy.

With both events at record size, the fund has backed five additional sports and activity initiatives since it’s February update.

From programmes for women and girls to new opportunities for young people, the Trafford Moving Fund continues to help local organisations thrive. Explore the latest beneficiaries below.

Swinton Lions Foundation

Swinton Lions Foundation used the fund to hold a Women and Girls Day as a wraparound activity to their Women’s Championship fixture (Swinton Lions v London Broncos). Over 500 people attended and engaged in the day, enjoying activities of the TRY RL (Rugby League) initiative which introduces first timers to the sport. CEO Damian Ridpath describing the event as “huge success”.

Women’s Empowerment Through Art

WETA (Women’s Empowerment Through Art) used the Trafford Moving Fund to deliver five outdoor adventure sessions to disadvantaged women and children. Each two-hour session combined exploration, games, and shared mealtimes, offering children and parents the chance to enjoy the outdoors. The fund also helped WETA partner with Hidaya Girls Mosque in July, delivering a special hike with over 100 participants.

Men’s Under 20 England Lacrosse Squad

The fund also helped members of the Men’s Under 20 England Lacrosse Squad play international competitions this summer. Team member Oscar McCarthy, who travelled to Seogwipo-si, Jeju Island, South Korea, said the following: “Thanks to the Trafford Moving Fund I’ve been able to fulfil my life-long dream of representing my family and most importantly my country in front of the world!”

 

M13 Boxing Academy

M13 Boxing Academy accessed funding to replace worn-out punch bags, enabling the club to provide high quality equipment to its young boxers. Owner and a retired professional boxer, Gary Booth, said the new equipment is “brilliant” and will help attract more young people into the sport, which provides life skills and community for young people.

Beyond Empower

Beyond Empower is using the fund to tailor activity sessions for disabled residents at Fiona Gardens supported living in Sale. The community interest company said that the grant has removed initial cost barriers to the initiative. It is piloting 12 weeks of accessible activities that build confidence, encourage participation, and create a foundation for sustainable long-term opportunities.