School helps people with physical and complex needs

Mar 18 2010 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

PEOPLE from South Lanarkshire with physical and complex needs came together recently for a two-day residential School of Sport at the National Sports Centre at Inverclyde.

In total 13 people aged 16-26 took part in the event, held at the top-class facility which offers sports coaching to improve skills.

The weekend provided an opportunity to participate in inclusive sports, including New Age Kurling and boccia, activities that can be played by able-bodied and disabled players.

It also allowed for an overnight stay for players participating in two-day sports coaching events.

South Lanarkshire Council are the only Scottish local authority to offer the two-day intensive sports coaching event for disabled people.

When Big Lottery Fund cash was stopped in 2009, the council took over its support so that the project could continue.s

Councillor Gerry Convery, chairman of the community resources committee and the board of South Lanarkshire Leisure Ltd, said: “The National Sports Centre at Inverclyde usually plays host to international squads and top-performing athletes, but South Lanarkshire Council felt that the centre should be accessible to all young people, both able-bodied and with disabilities, to enjoy.”

Those attending the School of Sport received a special participation presentation from South Lanarkshire Provost Russell Clearie.