SOUTHAMPTON youngsters with disabilities are set to benefit from a new physical activity programme.

It will include weekly sessions in skiing, sailing, archery, swimming and diving.

A rolling eight-week programme will include sessions in soft play, dance, multi-sports and team building.

The new 4-year contract will be delivered by charity Active Nation and is valued at £45k per year.

It will allow the Active Nation to provide short break and respite services for young people and their families across Southampton venues.

The contract was awarded by the city council and has been designed for youngsters aged between four and 19-years-old and registered with SEND.

Partnership Manager for Active Nation, Maxwell Bradbury-Knight said: “As a result of the brilliant work within our venues to ensure the buildings, sessions and programmes are fully accessible, we are over the moon to be awarded this contract by the Council. As a team, we work hard to embed ourselves into the heart of local communities to make a significant difference to people’s lives.

“Leading a healthy and active life is a basic human right and no barrier should leave you unable to participate. Physical inactivity kills more people every year than smoking and Active Nation are proud to empower local communities to lead healthier lives, whilst building connections and reducing social isolation.

“Our new SEND activity programme is just another initiative, powered by Active Nation in partnership with local organisations, which increases the opportunity for communities to become active.”

All activities will allow those with SEND to learn a new skill, make new friends and build social skills. Parents, siblings and friends are all welcome to join in the fun too. The new activity programme will be rolled out across Active Nation’s seven Southampton venues, whilst also utilising partner venues to ensure that transportation is not a barrier to participation.