A celebratory Sports Festival took place this weekend at Wentworth Leisure Centre in Hexham for people and families with Down's Syndrome. The event witnessed around 50 participants of all ages enjoy a day of fun, laughter, sport and activity.
It was organised by Northumberland County Council and Places Leisure, on behalf of Downs Syndrome North East (DSNE), a parent volunteer charity which has arranged a series of events to celebrate its 21st year.
The event was designed to provide an opportunity for participants to take part in a variety of different activities. It also provided an opportunity for staff to speak with the families and young people to see what sports provision they are currently accessing around the county, to find out if there are any gaps which could potentially be addressed, and to point them in the direction of sport and support services.
Ronne Scheu, Disability and Inclusion Officer for Northumberland County Council’s Sports Development Team said: “The day was a fantastic success with everyone having fun and it was great to welcome some new faces to our Ability2Play family. Thank you to everyone who came along, either to take part or to help out and make the day such a memorable one.”
Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, cabinet member for promoting health lives added: “It is important that we all try and develop a positive relationship with exercise and physical activity to reap the many benefits this brings. This is just as important for children and adults who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). As well as having a really positive impact on their well-being, it also gives them a sense of belonging and breaks down inequalities that those with a disability may potentially face. It was such a great day and I’m delighted that such a great day was had by everyone taking part.”
Northumberland County Council runs an inclusive activity programme through its Ability2Play scheme for young people and adults with special educational needs and disabilities.
To take part or find out more please email: Ability2Play@northumberland.gov.uk or visit Facebook @Ability2Play
The county council has also launched a new website for parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
A one-stop-shop of information and advice, the SEND Local Offer aims to make it easier for families to find the information they need. Go to www.northumberlandsend.co.uk
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