A free exercise programme in Wythenshawe is enabling students from Manchester College who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to improve their physical and mental health.
Launched this month, the programme has been funded by Manchester City Council’s Neighbourhood Investment Fund, along with additional investment from Wythenshawe Forum Trust.
Across the academic year, students enrolled in the programme will be able to take part in a variety of activities at Wythenshawe Forum.
Aimed at students aged between 16-25 who have a physical or learning disability, the free programme is designed to improve physical fitness, support mental wellbeing and teach new skills.
Activities include a variety of sports, such as badminton, five-a-side football, table tennis and basketball.
Students will also be able to access Good Boost, an app-based therapeutic water exercise programme. Built by clinical experts, the programme is designed for people with limited mobility, with sessions individually tailored for participants and delivered on tablets.
As well as the physical benefits that Good Boost brings, the process of using technology and reading instructions can help with building useful life skills.
What’s more, organisers have gone one step further in supporting students, by offering some the opportunity to gain work experience at Wythenshawe Forum.
Phil Bowers, contract manager at Everyone Active, added: “We are delighted to launch this programme and support local students with SEND. Not only will the programme help them stay active and healthy, but it will also build their confidence and teach them valuable skills.
“We must say a huge thank you to Manchester City Council and Wythenshawe Forum Trust for their generous funding. This programme would not be possible without it – and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it has on the young community of Manchester.”
Forum Leisure is managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Wythenshawe Forum Trust and MCRactive.