Swindon Bats Sports & Social Club

The Swindon Bats Sports & Social Club is a UK nonprofit organization dedicated to providing sporting and social activities for individuals who are visually impaired in the Swindon area.

History and Establishment

The club was first formed in February 2006, following a 'have-a-go day' organized by British Blind Sport and the Wiltshire Blind Association (now Wiltshire Sight). This initiative brought together visually impaired individuals who were interested in meeting regularly to engage in tenpin bowling. By November of the same year, Swindon was represented in the British Blind Sports Tenpin Bowling Summer League finals, achieving a 12th place finish nationally.

In June 2007, two Swindon Bats teams participated in the winter league finals held in Sheffield, with one team securing third place. The club continued to achieve success, winning several trophies over the years in competitions affiliated with the National Blind Tenpin Bowling Association (NBTBA) and British Blind Sport.

In January 2008, the Monday Club was established to provide a regular meeting space where visually impaired members could share experiences and support one another in coping with sight loss.

Swindon Bats officially became a registered charity in February 2011.

Mission and Activities

The club's mission focuses on enhancing the lives of individuals with sight loss by promoting inclusion through sports and social activities. These activities are designed to improve both physical and mental wellbeing for those facing sight loss. While tenpin bowling remains a core activity, the club also engages in other sports and social events, such as indoor lawn bowls and skittles nights.

In recent activities, the club has participated in events like tenpin bowling competitions against other local groups, such as the Swindon Lions, and has enjoyed social events at local venues.

Impact and Inclusion

Through its inclusive approach, Swindon Bats aims to foster a sense of community among visually impaired individuals, providing opportunities for friendship and collective support. The club's activities and initiatives help bridge gaps in social interaction that often accompany sight loss, ensuring that members stay connected and active within their community.

[1] https://www.swindonbats.org [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/4052013 [3] https://www.swindonbats.org/about-us/ [4] https://weareswindon.co.uk/swindons-charity-hub/swindon-bats/ [5] https://www.wiltssport.org/directory/swindon-bats-sports-and-social-club-for-the-visually-impaired