Worcestershire County Cricket Club is proud to announce it has won a prestigious 2025 Business of Cricket Award (BOCA), taking home the top prize in the Raising the Game EDI Initiative category.
Hosted at Lords, the awards are designed to recognise the outstanding off-field achievements across the county network.
Working in partnership with Mencap and the Worcestershire Cricket Foundation, Worcestershire set out to remove the practical and perceptual barriers that adults with learning difficulties face when engaging with cricket, both as participants and within the workforce.
The joined-up programme created meaningful pathways into the game at Visit Worcestershire New Road, embedding inclusive practice across the Club through internships, inclusive experiences, learner-led consultation and community volunteering.
SEND-friendly, low-sensory tours-piloted on matchdays have now become a permanent public offer, while learner feedback has led to specific accessibility improvements around the ground, including better wayfinding and operational adjustments.
The impact has been significant: dozens of learners have been engaged across internships, tours and community roles, families report a stronger sense of belonging at Visit Worcestershire New Road, and 100% of participating learners reported increased confidence.
Staff mentors have developed practical inclusive skills, with inclusive practice now part of day-to-day operations across kitchens, facilities and the wider matchday experience-bringing the Club closer to its ambition that cricket at Visit Worcestershire New Road is truly “a game for all.”
“I thrilled the hard work of our staff and volunteers has been recognised by the ECB at the BOCAs. Winning the Raising the Game EDI Initiative Award is a tremendous achievement and something the whole club can be proud of.
Supporting our local community is a key priority for us as a Club and we are determined to ensure cricket is accessible to everyone. Our work with Mencap learners and their families shows it’s possible.”
Ashley Giles, Chief Executive Officer, Worcestershire CCC
Worcestershire would like to thank all its staff, partners and community for their continued support and looks forward to recognising the efforts which led to award success.
