Breaking down barriers to participation: in conversation with Mathew Richards

As health and care systems place greater emphasis on prevention, inclusion and community wellbeing, innovative approaches are needed to ensure no one is left behind.

That's the opportunity Mathew Richards, founder of Inclus-ability North West CIC, is pursuing. Drawing on years of experience in sport, physical activity and disability inclusion, he is developing new ways to create environments where more people can participate, connect and thrive.

Working across schools, community hubs and care settings, Inclus-ability North West CIC delivers tailored activity programmes designed to build confidence, improve wellbeing and create stronger social connections. From chair-based exercise sessions for older adults to confidence-building activities for children, the organisation is focused on making movement accessible for people of all abilities and backgrounds.

Inclus-ability North West CIC is part of Citizen First LCR, an initiative supporting community-based entrepreneurs to develop businesses rooted in lived experience. Delivered by Public Life and supported through the University of Liverpool, the programme helps founders turn early-stage ideas into scalable ventures that address health challenges.

For Mathew, the idea behind the business was shaped by his own experiences growing up.

“From my younger days, I know what it feels like not to be included. Even now, I still think there are people experiencing the same barriers when it comes to exercise and activity.”

That experience continues to shape how the organisation approaches delivery today. Rather than focusing on traditional fitness models, Inclus-ability North West CIC is designed around adaptability, accessibility and participation.

“There are still people who feel exercise isn’t for them. What we’re trying to do is create environments where people feel comfortable coming along, building confidence and being themselves.”

The organisation is already delivering activity programmes in schools, helping young people develop confidence, teamwork and motivation through inclusive physical activity. At the same time, Mathew has expanded delivery into adult care settings, an area he believes is often underserved when it comes to accessible movement and wellbeing support.

“In care homes, movement and social interaction are so important. I’ve seen people improve in confidence and mobility from week to week just by having consistent sessions and support.”

Alongside its existing programmes, the organisation is also exploring new community-based activity models designed to create more relaxed and flexible environments for participation. The aim is to provide spaces where people can engage at their own pace.

Over the last year, the business has grown significantly, moving from an early-stage concept into active programme delivery across the region.

“A year ago, it was mostly just ideas on paper, now we’re actually delivering sessions, developing partnerships and building something real.”

That transition has been supported through Citizen First LCR, which provides participants with funding, mentoring, professional networks and dedicated time to focus on building their businesses.

For Mathew, having that support structure in place has been transformational.

“If I didn’t have that support, I wouldn’t be where I am now. It gave me the space to focus properly on building the business and getting out into the community.”

Alongside funding, Mathew highlights the importance of being connected into a wider regional innovation ecosystem. Through support from the CHI-Zone, VEC and University of Liverpool teams, Inclus-ability North West CIC has accessed branding support, website development, pilot opportunities and introductions to mentors and regional networks. Early introductions facilitated by the CHI-Zone team helped Mathew secure his pilot with Stockbridge Primary School, providing an important opportunity to demonstrate the value of his approach and build momentum for future partnerships.

“Before this, I had my own contacts from coaching, but this introduced me to a much wider business network. It’s helped me think differently about what the business could become.”

The collaborative environment created through Citizen First LCR has also played an important role in helping founders learn from one another as they navigate the challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship.

“You realise you’re not doing it by yourself - everyone is learning together and supporting each other.”

As the business continues to grow, Mathew is looking to develop additional pilot opportunities across schools, care homes and community organisations, while continuing to build the organisation’s digital presence and partnership network.

Mathew is looking to secure new pilot partners, build strategic collaborations and continue refining his offer across different settings. For organisations interested in creating more inclusive opportunities for physical activity and wellbeing, click here to reach out via email.