The Down’s Syndrome Association’s (DSA) DSActive clubs have been given a £19,000 cash injection by insurance provider Simplyhealth. 

 

This £19,000 grant will allow for the development of six additional tennis and football clubs around the country.   

 

The funds will also enable the DSActive clubs to receive training and support in their initial set-up stages. 

The DSActive sports programme for children and adults with Down’s syndrome is run nationally by the DSA.

The scheme was introduced to enable people with Down’s syndrome to access sport and exercise to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Carol Boys, Chief Executive of the DSA said: “DSActive is making a real difference to the lives of children and adults who participate in the sports programme.  

“DSActive not only helps with well-being, it provides the participants with a valuable opportunity to meet like-minded people and improve their self-confidence. Simplyhealth has an amazing tradition of charitable support and we really appreciate that they have supported us again with the generous grant for DSActive.”

Sarah Ford, Chair of Simplyhealth Charitable Committee commented: "It's clear that the DSActive clubs mean so much to many children and families across the UK. We're delighted to be able to fund six additional football and tennis clubs which will help people with Down's Syndrome to maintain healthy lifestyles, whilst importantly, having lots of fun!"

Charlton Upbeats, a member of the DSActive programme and an avid football player, commented: “The coaches are brill, they’re fantastic; they make me feel proud and lovely when I play football. I really like football so much.”

 

Since the launch of the DSActive programme the charity has reported many participants have significantly improved their weight management and fitness along with their self-confidence, social awareness and self-esteem.