“I cannot praise the service enough”: how one Wirral family are accessing inclusive leisure activities
A Wirral mum has spoken about her and her son’s experiences accessing leisure activities. Jo and her son Alfie, are from Wallasey. Alfie, who is nearly 8, has mobility issues and has participated in water sports, swimming, balanceability sessions and more during the summer. The activities are part of the Active All Sports Holiday Programme run by the Council.
Jo, Alfie’s mum, said:
There’s not many sporting activities that Alfie can participate in, but you can always guarantee the leisure activities that he does with the Council will be enjoyable and inclusive.
This year, Alfie has enjoyed taking part in inclusive cycling sessions with Wheels For All as well as bowling and swimming. He has also enjoyed trampolining sessions in the past too.
Speaking of the activities, Jo said:
Alfie recently took part in the Splash water sports activity at West Kirby Marine Lake and he had an absolute ball.
Josh, the instructor, was amazing and so kind towards Alfie and took the time to check he was OK using a "thumbs up" and giving him extra instructions when needed.
It was fantastic to see Alfie enjoying himself so much with the other kids. He had a fabulous time on the water in a safe and supportive environment and made new friends on the way.
It’s hard to engage Alfie with activities and believe me we have tried many, but he can’t wait to get booked back on. The fresh air and exhilaration is exactly what he loves.
Along with water sports, Alfie has also made a splash at the Oval, attending a Balanceability session.
Specially designed with child development experts and cycling professionals, Balanceability is the UK’s only Association for Physical Education approved Learn to Cycle programme. Three sessions were held in Wirral over the summer.
Jo said:
Despite many attempts, Alfie still struggles to maintain the coordination and balance to be able to ride a bike. I wasn’t sure how he would get on [at the session] but with the encouragement of the instructors and the regular prompts and fun environment he persisted and did really well and his confidence has grown.
The classes were suitable for ages 2.5 to 7 years of age, with bicycles and helmets provided.
Speaking of Wirral’s leisure services, Jo said:
I cannot praise the service enough. The activities are varied and interesting and affordable and just as importantly - inclusive. My boy makes me proud every day and seeing him having fun and getting the movement and interaction with other kids totally makes my day.
Thanks again WBC and staff.
Become an Invigor8 member and enjoy access to Active Wirral leisure centres and facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, exercise classes, golf, tennis and more!
For more information on the Active All Sports Holiday Programme, visit: activewirral.com/active-allsports
