Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough (ABC) Council has extended its long-standing partnership with Disability Sport NI (DSNI) to ensure that opportunities are created for disabled people and those with a long-term health condition to be involved in sport and physical activity.
Since 2012 ABC Council has hosted an Inclusive Sport and Leisure Officer and subsequently a Get out Get Active Recreation Officer from DSNI and its community interest company, Live Active NI.
Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Alderman Margaret Tinsley said: “We believe that no one should be excluded from the transformational benefits of sport and physical activity, such as boosting physical and mental well-being, personal development and a sense of belonging. Inclusive programmes help people of all ages and abilities to unleash their potential and improve their overall health and wellbeing.”
Aubrey Bingham from Disability Sport NI said: “We are very pleased that the council has committed to the continued funding of the ‘Goga in Action’ & ‘Inclusive Leisure’ posts enabling a wide range of programmes to be delivered, providing an invaluable service supporting disabled people, older people and those coping with long-term health conditions to lead more active, healthier lifestyles.
“It also places ABC at the forefront in provision of these services and they stand as a leader and a beacon to other councils in NI, who we hope may follow suit in the coming years.”
Working with Sports Development, the Inclusive Sport and Leisure Officer has a focus on indoor leisure and club development for people with a disability. Inclusive sport and leisure programmes include inclusive cycling; summer schemes; school competitions; boccia and wheelie active club.
The Get Out, Get Active (GOGA) Recreation Officer delivers a broad range of inclusive activities that target the least active people across the borough, including Tai Chi for Health; GOGA Fit (low intensity inclusive fitness classes) and Nordic Walking (an excellent form of exercise that improves cardio, develops strength, improves posture and reduces the impact on joints).
Both officers also continue to support the Sports Development Team on the delivery of the Get Moving ABC Framework, delivering innovative programmes to engage and motivate inactive people across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, including people with a disability.
