‘Get out and get active’ will be the message from Deputy Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Jim McKeever, at the launch of an exciting new programme at the Foyle Arena this Friday, January 13.
Distinguished guests and representatives from Get Out Get Active (GOGA) UK, supporting charities and council staff will be in attendance to mark the opening of the programme that aims to reach out to disabled and able bodied people in the Council area to be more active together.
Looking ahead to the event, Councillor McKeever said the project has the potential to have a life changing impact on those involved.
“Get Out Get Active is an encouraging and exciting new programme that is set to deliver positive benefits to the community,” he said.
“The participants can not only reap the significant health benefits of regular exercise but the social aspect of being involved in organised activities can have a hugely positive impact.
“The programme offers a wide range of fun and inclusive activities with expert coaches and I look forward to getting a closer look at that on Friday.”
The London Olympics legacy charity ‘Spirit of 2012’ has provided a £4.5 million investment stimulus through GOGA at eighteen locations across the UK including two Northern Ireland council areas: Derry City and Strabane District Council and Armagh and Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
Kat Southwell, GOGA Programme Manager commented: “Get Out Get Active has the potential to change how we encourage, enable and engage more people through active recreation opportunities.
“For many of those we are trying to attract, these opportunities have been out of reach or unappealing. Changing people’s mind-sets is not an overnight solution and that’s why we’ve called upon so many partners across the UK to help make it happen. This launch marks the start of an exciting journey for all involved.
“To illustrate his support and enthusiasm for the programme, we anticipate the Deputy Mayor will lead by example to demonstrate and encourage children and representatives from local primary schools, day care centres and the wider adult community to experience some of the Get Out Get Active opportunities supported by this initiative.”
The funding will help support the role of Kieran Coyle, Active Recreation Officer with Live Active NI, the Community Interest Company of Disability Sport NI.
Details on how to register for the programme will be available after the launch.
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