The University of Nottingham is set to expand its para and inclusive sports initiatives through a new long-term partnership with leading Midlands construction firm, G F Tomlinson.

The collaboration aims to enhance the university’s commitment to equity in sports by growing its para-athlete recruitment, expanding its BUCS Championship-winning Wheelchair Basketball Team, increasing student access to disability sport and fitness programs, and supporting university sports clubs in fostering inclusive participation.

G F Tomlinson has a longstanding relationship with the university, having designed and built key facilities across its award-winning campuses while incorporating the latest inclusive design practices. This new partnership further reinforces the firm’s commitment to delivering social value through its projects.

University para-athletes and teams will collaborate with G F Tomlinson to set new benchmarks for inclusive design and construction. Through consultation, training, and experiential events, the initiative will enhance the firm’s reputation as a leader in inclusive infrastructure development.

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Additionally, students will benefit from new industry placements and degree apprenticeship opportunities created as part of the partnership.

Jo Simpson, Chief Commercial Officer at the University of Nottingham, said: "We want to be known as the sector leader for Para and inclusive sport. This new partnership is an exciting part of our journey to achieve this vision. Para sport has the ability to truly change lives and Tomlinson's support to enable this strategy showcases their value-led approach in all that they do.

"This is a sector-defining moment and one which will become the catalyst for an even more inclusive environment on our campuses and across the sector. It is a true showcase of how our partners can work with us to create a global leading vision and impact."

Andy Sewards, Chairman of G F Tomlinson, said: "We are thrilled to be working with the university to further develop our expertise in inclusive design and build. The synergy we share is incredible, and we are proud to help develop a more inclusive campus environment alongside supporting the university community to thrive.

"I have been incredibly inspired by the athletes I have met and the ambition of the university. I am so excited to see where this journey takes us all, and we can’t wait to see Nottingham's para-athletes competing on the world stage and more people than ever involved in the university’s sport programmes."