Football fun for people in Huddersfield

In March, over 75 people came along to take part in the Trust’s first learning disability football fun day of the season at the Zone in Huddersfield.

Organised by Trust staff, in partnership with the West Riding County Football Association, those who attended had the opportunity to get involved with lots of football related activities including 5-a-side matches, penalty shoot outs and coaching sessions.

All the activities organised for the fun day are football based and adjusted to meet individual needs. They are also tailored to be inclusive for players with moderate to severe leaning difficulties and the football coaches who run the sessions can adapt activities throughout the day as required depending on people’s needs.

This football fun day was the first in a series of fun days that will be held throughout 2012.

Nigel McLoughlin, professional lead nurse for learning disabilities at the Trust said, "We know that physical activity and social inclusion all make a big difference to wellbeing and the football fun days are a great opportunity for local people with learning disabilities to get involved.

"There was a real air of excitement as the sessions kicked off with all the players and participants warming up to playing some friendly but competitive games. The look on people’s faces says it all. Smile after smile after smile!

"The use of a professional venue like the Zone adds much to the atmosphere, coupled with comfortable space to relax between sessions and of course the great support from the coaches and Trust staff.

"These activities are supported by the Trust’s innovation fund and they add real value to the communities we serve and help us to deliver on our aim to be a provider of choice."

To find out more about the football fun day and other events organised by the Trust contact the inclusion team on 01924 328656 or email inclusion@swyt.nhs.uk.