Background: Children with disabilities and special educational needs often face multiple barriers to engaging in community projects which provide the right level of support. This leads to feelings of isolation, limited opportunities for social interaction and limited integration. We developed the “Active Together South Lakes” project to address these issues.
The Project: “Active Together South Lakes” delivered adaptive and inclusive sports sessions in both schools and community centres, including boccia, swimming, and wheelchair basketball. Coaches received specialised training to cater to a wide range of disabilities, ensuring sessions were inclusive and enjoyable. The project also involved parents and carers, creating a supportive network for participants and ensuring the wider family unit were able to positively engage.
Outcomes:
- Over 200 children participated in regular sports sessions in the first year.
- 90% of parents reported improved physical health and social engagement in their children.
- The programme fostered friendships and peer support networks among participants and their families.
Impact: The project enhanced children’s confidence, independence, and created a sense of belonging in the towns of Barrow, Ulverston and Kendal.
