HSP Partner Survey Reports Strong Working Relationships

The Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership (HSP) has released the findings of its 2026 Partner Survey, offering valuable insight into how organisations across Hertfordshire view their collaboration with the Partnership. The results covering the period January to December 2025 paint a positive picture of strong, impactful relationships while highlighting opportunities for further development in 2026.

Strong Engagement Across Sectors

The survey was completed by 116 partners representing a diverse cross‑section of the sector, including local authorities, charities, community sports clubs, health agencies, and education providers.

The highest numbers of submissions came from East Herts (13%), Broxbourne (10%), and Hertsmere (10%), with 38% of partners operating across multiple districts. Compared to last year, responses from health‑sector partners increased by almost 60%, a notable indicator of the partnership’s growing presence in health and wellbeing work.

Partners Report Strong Working Relationships with HSP

Across ten statements assessing partnership working, an average of 93% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their experience with HSP is positive. Partners highlighted HSP’s collaborative approach, willingness to share challenges openly, and the support provided to help organisations achieve shared goals.

However, partners expressed slightly less confidence in the area of insight and evidence, prompting HSP to identify this as a key area of focus for the year ahead.

Values Recognised But Sustainability Awareness Needs Boosting

Partners were also asked whether their experience with HSP reflected the organisation’s core values. Four of the five values received positive recognition from at least 85% of partners, though fewer respondents selected “strongly agree,” suggesting room to deepen this alignment.

Environmental sustainability was the least understood value, with 35% reporting uncertainty about whether HSP actively demonstrates sustainable practice. HSP plans to increase visibility in this area.

What Has Gone Well?

Partners praised HSP's:

• Clear and proactive communication
• High‑quality collaborative project delivery
• Access to training and funding opportunities
• Support for strengthening networks and relationships

Several partners said HSP's support had been “transformational” for community groups and young leaders.

What Partners Value Most

When asked what they value most about their relationship with HSP, themes included:

• Professional, responsive staff
• Access to funding, CPD, and resources
• A strong sense of shared purpose and collaboration
• Support for vulnerable or under‑represented communities
• Networking and cross‑sector connectivity

Areas for Improvement

While overwhelmingly positive, responses highlighted opportunities to refine and strengthen partnership working. Key themes included:

• More consistent communication with local authority colleagues
• Broader cross‑sector collaboration through structured touch points
• Increased emphasis on long‑term funding arrangements

These insights will shape HSP’s focus for the year ahead.

No Limits 2026: Benchmarking Disability Inclusion

As part of HSP’s Year of Disability Sport & Physical Activity, the survey assessed partners’ confidence in working with disabled audiences. Between 57% and 67% of partners expressed confidence in advocating for, planning, and delivering inclusive activity. With up to 6% identifying as “not confident,” HSP will prioritise supporting partners to strengthen inclusive practice throughout 2026.

Active Local: Deepening Community‑Led Approaches

Thirty‑five partners involved in the Active Local projects in Cowley Hill and Waltham Cross contributed feedback. The findings show strong progress:

• 89% reported forming new partnerships through Active Local
• 80% said local communities are shaping their work

Partners shared examples of new collaboration, community engagement, and enhanced awareness of local needs.

NPS Score Reflects Sector Confidence

HSP achieved an impressive Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 94, an increase of four points from last year. With 95% promoters, partners consistently described HSP as proactive, knowledgeable, and committed to community wellbeing.

Future Collaboration Opportunities

Partners identified multiple areas for future joint working, including:

• Expanding disability and inclusive sport initiatives
• Growth of HAF and holiday programmes
• Youth leadership and workforce development
• Health and wellbeing programmes
• Bid‑writing and funding support
• Facility development
• Training and CPD opportunities
• Community‑based physical activity delivery

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A Positive Foundation for 2026

The 2026 Partner Survey highlights the strength and breadth of HSP’s relationships across Hertfordshire’s sport, health, and community sectors. With high levels of trust and satisfaction and clear insights into areas for growth, the findings will help HSP refine its priorities and continue building a more active, connected, and inclusive Hertfordshire.

Adrian Ledbury - Strategic Lead (Transformation)