New HQ for Rise

Rise North East is celebrating its move to its new premises marking the completion of its journey to establish itself as the active partnership for Northumberland and Tyne & Wear.

The active partnership, which is a result of the coming together of Tyne & Wear Sport and Northumberland Sport, officially opened its new office at the Royal Quays Business Centre in North Shields at the end of September.

Following the launch of new brand Rise in July, CEO Clare Morley said it made sense to have one central base for the team:

“We amalgamated the two active partnerships in January and at that point we were still working across two separate offices in Blyth and Washington. Throw lockdown into the mix and it’s meant that finding our new home has taken a little longer than planned.

“Fortunately, the team has taken to home-working like ducks to water and we’re really proud of them for all they’ve achieved during these uncertain times, despite doing everything via Teams or Zoom for the last six months. It’s great to know now that once things return to normal, we will have a fabulous office where we can sit down next to each other and welcome our partners.”

In comparison to its previous offices, the new space which is based just off the A19 with free parking and opposite Royal Quays shopping centre, is bright and welcoming – something which the team was keen to achieve. Clare continued:

“It was really important for our new home to be a warm and enjoyable place to come to work, as well as being in a convenient location for the team and our visitors. It was a shame we couldn’t have an official launch with partners, stakeholders and supporters but hopefully we can arrange for that when circumstances allow.”