People with learning disabilities in Kirklees get active and get involved in football fun day
Local people in Kirklees with learning disabilities took part in a special ‘Olympic’ themed football fun day at the Zone in Huddersfield on Tuesday 19th June.
The special event, which was organised by staff at South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, in partnership with James Doyle from the West Riding County Football Association, was enjoyed by over 80 people including service users, their carers and staff.
The new Mayor of Kirklees, David Ridgway also kindly donated his time and came along to open the event.
The football fun days are held four times a year and the activities during this event were focused on the upcoming Olympics and included boccia bowling competitions and penalty shootouts. Staff had even created their very own Olympic torch that people could hold and walk around with.
Nigel McLoughlin, professional lead nurse for learning disabilities at South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust said, “We know that physical activity and social inclusion all make a big difference to wellbeing and this event is a great opportunity for local people to get involved.
“We want people with a learning disability who use our services to be able to try something new to enhance their wellbeing and sport is a great way to bring people together and build a sense of community.
“The football fun day had an Olympic theme as it is part of the Trust’s get active and get involved 2012 campaign, which has seen activities organised by staff across the Trust in support of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
To find out more about the football fun day and future dates planned, contact the Trust’s inclusion team on 01924 328656 or email inclusion@swyt.nhs.uk
