The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC Named Community Heroes Finalist

We're happy to announce The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC as a finalist for our 2026 Community Heroes initiative, acknowledging the charity’s work in creating an inclusive community hub that uses physical activity to build confidence, belonging and opportunity for people of all ages and abilities.

Standing out amongst the applications from August, the charity was selected by a panel including celebrity judge and TV tradesperson, Rob Bent. The campaign was relaunched this year, after research found that half of Brits (48%) say community spaces have disappeared in their neighbourhoods.

The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC will join eight more finalists selected between April and November 2026 to face a public vote in December, which will decide the Community Heroes 2026 winner who will receive £15,000 in cash.

The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC is an inclusive community wellbeing and development project, built on 15 years of grassroots experience supporting children, adults and families through Pitbull MMA. It aims to create a safe and welcoming space where people can feel included, build confidence, develop a sense of belonging and enhance their quality of life.

Through physical activity, youth mentoring, SEND and disability inclusion, education, volunteering and personal development, the project helps people build new skills, strengthen their physical and emotional wellbeing, and create positive connections within their community.

Thanks to the win, The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC has already secured £2,000 to spend in its local branch, Selco Coventry. This funding will be used to transform the charity’s new facility into a safe, inclusive and durable community space, with the initial focus on protecting the walls and improving storage. These improvements will help create dedicated learning spaces and a welcoming, inclusive environment that meets the needs of children, adults, families and people with additional needs, providing a strong foundation for the project’s continued growth.

Paul Walsh, Director & Co Founder at The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC said: “We’re incredibly proud and grateful to be named Selco’s Community Heroes’ first-place winner for August. This support will make a genuine difference to The Walsh Project for Positive Change CIC, helping us continue creating positive opportunities and making an impact in our local community. Being recognised in this way means so much to everyone involved.”

Now in its sixth year – and with a bigger prize fund than ever before at £62,000 – the Community Heroes initiative is designed to benefit small community projects that are building brighter futures for their local areas.

David Lennon, Commercial Director at Selco, said:
"We were inspired by The Walsh Project's vision to create an inclusive community hub that removes barriers and helps people become the best versions of themselves. The work it does to support physical and emotional wellbeing makes a lasting difference to the lives of local people. We're delighted to crown the charity as a Community Heroes finalist and support the development of its facility."

Local charities and community projects are encouraged to find out more about Community Heroes and apply online.