Sports scheme in Inverness scoops £26k
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
AN Inverness project designed to encourage more young women to participate in sport is among 15 to scoop a share of £300,000 funding.
The scheme is a partnership between Highland Council’s Bridge Education Centre and Velocity Café and Bicycle Workshop.
It aims to engage with young women between 14 and 20 years of age who due to emotional, behavioural or social issues, are underachieving in school or life and are unlikely to take part in any physical activity without external support.
Using cycling as a tool to get the girls outdoors, learning new skills, looking and feeling healthy, and feeling socially connected, the partnership will work with small groups to set achievable goals from basic cycling proficiency, to bike maintenance and weekend bike-packing and camping.
It is hoped that providing opportunities to participate will help the young women to make the connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing and encourage lifelong participation.
Jannine Thompson of Bridge Education Centre said: “The boost in confidence that comes with an experience like this can make a huge difference, and we are creating memories that will stay with them for a long time.”
The project has received £26,315 from the Scottish Government’s women and girls fund.
Sports minister Joe FitzPatrick said: “There are so many benefits to making sport and physical activity a part of daily life. From improving physical and mental health, to developing skills and strengthening communities, the impact can be life-changing.”
